Rig Veda on The Divine

2 This God, made ready with the hymn, runs swiftly through the winding ways, 3 This God while flowing is adorned, like a bay steed for war, by men 4 He, like a warrior going forth with heroes, as he flows along 5 This God, as he is flowing on, speeds like a car and gives his gifts: 6 Praised by the sacred bards, this God dives into waters, and bestows 7 Away he rushes with his stream, across the regions, into heaven, 8 While flowing, meet for sacrifice, he hath gone up to heaven across 9 After the 'way of ancient time, this God, pressed out for Deities, 10 This Lord of many Holy Laws, even at his birth engendering strength,

2 Sustainer of the heaven, Lord of the whole world's life, the Sage, he putteth on his golden−coloured mai 3 He hath filled full the regions of the heaven and earth: the God for his own strengthening waketh up the 4 Lighting all living creatures, neer to be deceived, Savitar, God, protects each holy ordinance. 5 Savitar thrice surrounding with his mightiness mid−air, three regions, and the triple sphere of light, 6 Most gracious God, who brings to life and lulls to rest, he who controls the world, what moves not and 7 With the year's seasons hath Savitar, God, come nigh: may he prosper our home, give food and noble so

2 Thou at thy birth didst fill both earth and heaven, yea, Most Adorable, thou didst exceed them. 3 Both Heaven and Earth and Gods who should be worshipped establish thee as Priest for every dwelling, 4 Firm in the Gods' home is the Mighty seated, between vast Heaven and Earth the well−beloved− 5 Great are the deeds of thee, the Great, O Agni: thou by thy power hast spread out earth and heaven. 6 Bind to the pole with cords of holy Order the long−maned ruddy steeds who sprinkle fatness. 7 Even from the sky thy brilliant lights shone hither: still hast thou beamed through many a radiant morni 8 The Gods who take delight in air's wide region, or those the dwellers in heaven's realm of brightness, 9 With these, borne on one ear, Agni, approach us, or borne on many, for thy steeds are able. 10 He is the Priest at whose repeated worship even wide Heaven and Earth sing out for increase. 11 As holy food, Agni, to thine invoker give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels. 2 The Male who dwells in heaven hath Mares and Milchkine: he came to Goddesses who bring sweet 3 Wise Master, wealthy finder−out of riches, he mounted those who may with case be guided. 4 Strength−giving streams bear hither him eternal, fain to support the mighty work. of Tvastar. 5 They know the red Bull's blessing, and are joyful under the flaming−coloured Lord's dominion: 6 Yea, by tradition from the ancient sages they brought great strength from the two mighty Parents, 7 Seven holy singers guard with five Adhvaryus the Bird's beloved firmly−settled station. 8 I crave the grace of heaven's two chief Invokers: the seven swift steeds joy in their wonted manner. 9 The many seek the great Steed as a stallion: the reins obey the Lord of varied colour. 10 Rich Lord, the Mornings have gleamed forth in splendour, fair−rayed, fair−speaking, worshipped with 11 As holy food, Agni, to thine invoker, give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.

2 Maghavan, help thy worshipper: let him help thee. O Satakratu, drink Soma to make thee glad. 3 Thou aidest Gods with food, and that with might aidg thee, 4 Creator of the heaven, creator of the earth, O Satakratu, drink Soma to make thee glad. 5 Father of cattle, father of all steeds art thou. O Satakratu, drink Soma to make thee glad. 6 Stone−hurler, glorify the Atris' hymn of praise. O Satakratu, drink Soma to make thee glad. 7 Hear thou Syavagva while he pours to thee, as erst thou heardest Atri when he wrought his holy rites. 2 Thou mighty Conqueror of hostile armaments, O Indra, Lord of Strength, with all thy saving help. 3 Sole Ruler, thou art Sovran of this world of life, O Indra, Lord of Strength, with all thy saving help. 4 Thou only sunderest these two consistent worlds, O Indra, Lord of Strength, with all thy saving help. 5 Thou art the Lord supreme o'er rest and energy, O Indra, Lord of Strength, with all thy saving help. 6 Thou helpest one to power, and one thou hast not helped, O Indra, Lord of Strength, with all thy saving 7 Hear thou Syavasva while he sings to thee, as erst thou heardest Atri when he wrought his holy rites.

2 Savitar's own supremacy, most glorious and beloved of all, 3 For Savitar who is Bhaga shall send riches to his worshipper. 4 Send us this day, God Savitar, prosperity with progeny. 5 Savitar, God, send far away all sorrows and calamities, 6 Sinless in sight of Aditi through the God Savitar's influence, 7 We with our hymns this day elect the general God, Lord of the good, 8 He who for ever vigilant precedes these Twain, the Day and Night, 9 He who gives glory unto all these living creatures with the song,

2 Bring forth the God with song divine, being Jatavedas hitherward, 3 He here, a God−devoted Priest, led forward comes to sacrifice. 4 This Agni rescues from distress, as 'twere from the Immortal Race,

2 The Son of Strength; for is he not our gracious Lord? Let us serve him who bears our gifts. 3 Agni, thou beamest forth with light, great Hero, never changed by time. 4 Thou worshippest great Gods: bring them without delay by wisdom and thy wondrous power. 5 He whom floods, stones, and trees support, the offspring of eternal Law; 6 He who hath filled both worlds fult with his brilliant shine, who hastens with his smoke to heaven; 7 O Agni, with thy lofty beams, with thy pure brilliancy, O God, 8 Thou art the Lord of house and home of all the tribes, O Agni, of all tribes of men. 9 Wonderful, with thy favouring help, send us thy bounties, gracious Lord. 10 With guards unfailing never negligent speed thou our children and our progeny. 11 Hither, O friends, with newest song drive her who freely pours her milk; 12 Who, for the host of Maruts bright with native sheen, hath shed immortal fame like milk; 13 For Bharadvaja she poured down in days of old 14 Your friend like Indra passing wise, with magic power like Varuna. 15 Bright as the host of Maruts mighty in their roar. May they bring Pusan free from foes; 16 Haste to me, Pusan, in thine car, bright Deity: I fain would speak: 17 Tear not up by the roots the Kakambira tree: destroy thou all malignity. 18 Uninjured let thy friendship be, like the smooth surface of a skin, 19 For thou art high above mankind, in glory equal to the Gods. 20 May the kind excellence of him the Kind, loud Roarers! be our guide, 21 They whose high glory in a moment like the God, the Sun, goes round the space of heaven, 22 Once, only once, the heaven was made, once only once, the earth was formed−

2 At high solemnities mortal men glorify him the Immortal, best 3 That he may bear their gifts to heaven, all glorify him Agni, God, 4 Agni shone bright when born, with light killing the Dasyus and the dark: 5 Serve Agni, God adorable, the Sage whose back is balmed with oil: 6 They have exalted Agni, God of all mankind, with oil and hymns

2 As God comprising Gods by Law Eternal, bear, as the Chief who knoweth, our oblation, 3 When the cow's nectar wins the God completely, men here below are heaven's sustainers. 4 1 praise your work that ye may make me prosper: hear, Heaven and Earth, Twain Worlds that drop with 5 Hath the King siezed us? How have we offended against his holy ordinance? Who knoweth? 6 'Tis hard to understand the Immortal's nature, where she who is akin becomes astranger. 7 They in the synod where the Gods rejoice them, where they are seated in Vivasvan's dwelling, 8 The counsel which the Gods meet to consider, their secret plan,−of that we have no knowledge. 9 Hear us, O Agni, in your comninn dwell ing: harness thy rapid car, the car of Amrta. 2 When speeding ye came nigh us like twin sisters, religious−hearted votaries brought you forward. 3 Five paces have I risen from Earth. I follow her who hath four feet with devout observance. 4 He, for God's sake, chose death to be his portion. He chose not, for men's good, a life eternal 5 The Seven flow to the Youth on whom the Maruts wait: the Sons unto the Father brought the sacrifice.

2 Rise up, O Savitar whose hands are golden, and hear this man while sacrifice is offered, 3 Let Savitar the God he hymned with praises, to whom the Vasus, even, all sing glory. 4 Even he whom Aditi the Goddess praises, rejoicing in God Savitar's incitement: 5 They who come emulous to our oblation, dispensing bounty, from the earth and heaven. 6 This may the Lord of Life, entreated, grant us,−the wealth which Savitar the God possesses. 7 Bless us the Vajins when we call, while slowly they move, strong Singers, to the Gods' assembly. 8 Deep−skilled in Law eternal, deathless, Singers, O Vajins, help us in each fray for booty. 2 Soft to the tread, their sacred grass is scattered: these go like Kings amid the band around them, 3 Here on their path the noble Gods proceeded: in the wide firmament the Beauteous decked them. 4 For they are holy aids at sacrifices: all Gods approach the place of congregation. 5 Agni, to these men's hymns, from earth, from heaven, bring Mitra, Varuna, Indra, and Agni, 6 Even as the holy wish, the gift is offered: may he, unsated, come when men desire him. 7 Now have both worlds been praised by the Vasisthas; and holy Mitra, Varuna, and Agni.

2 To mighty Heaven and Earth I sing forth loudly: my wish goes out desirous and well knowing 3 O Heaven and Earth, may your great law he faithful: he ye our leaders for our high advantage. 4 Yea, holy Heaven and Earth, the ancient sages whose word was ever true had power to find you; 5 What pathway leadeth to the Gods? Who knoweth this of a truth, and who will now declare it? 6 The Sage who looketh on mankind hath viewed them bedewed, rejoicing in the seat of Order. 7 Partners though parted, with far−distant limits, on one firm place both stand for ever watchful, 8 All living things they part and keep asunder; though bearing up the mighty Gods they reel not. 9 Afar the Ancient from of old I ponder, our kinship with our mighty Sire and Father,− 10 This laud, O Heaven and Earth, to you I utter: let the kind−hearted hear, whose tongue is Agni, 11 The fair−tongued Savitar, the golden−handed, comes thrice from heaven as Lord in our assembly. 12 Deft worker, skiful−handed, helpful, holy, may Tvastar, God, give us these things to aid us, 13 Borne on their flashing car, the spear−armed Maruts, the nimble Youths of Heaven, the Sons of Order, 14 To Visnu rich in marvels, songs And praises shall go as singers on the road of Bhaga,− 15 Indra, who rules through all his powers heroic, hath with his majesty filled earth and heaven. 16 My Sires are the Nasatyas, kind tokinsmen: the Asvins' kinship is a glorious title. 17 This is, ye Wise, your great and glorious title, that all ye Deities abide in Indra. 18 Aryaman, Aditi deserve our worship: the laws of Varuna remain unbroken. 19 May the Gods' envoy, sent to many a quarter, proclaim us sinless for our perfect safety. 20 Hear us the mouatains which distil the rain−drops, and, resting firm, rejoice in freshening moisture. 21 Soft be our path for ever, well−provisioned: with pleasant meath, O Gods, the herbs besprinkle. 22 Enjoy the offering: beam thou strength upon us; combine thou for our good all kinds of glory.

2 As such, O Agni, bring with favour to the Gods thy Brother Varuna who loveth sacrifice, 3 Do thou, O Friend, turn hither him who is our Friend, swift as a wheel, like two car−steeds in rapid cour 4 Do thou who knowest Varuna, O Agni, put far away from us the God's displeasure. 5 Be thou, O Agni, nearest us with succour, our closest Friend while now this Morn is breaking. 6 Excellent is the glance, of brightest splendour, which the auspicious God bestows on mortals− 7 Three are those births, the true, the most exalted, eagerly longed−for, of the God, of Agni. 8 This envoy joyeth in all seats of worship, borne on his golden car, sweet−tongued Invoker: 9 Allied by worship, let him give man knowledge: by an extended cord they lead him onward. 10 Let Agni −for he knows the way− conduct us to all that he enjoys of God−sent riches, 11 In houses first he sprang into existence, at great heaven's base, and in this region's bosom; 12 Wondrously first he rose aloft, defiant, in the Bull's lair, the homeof holy Order, 13 Here did our human fathers take their places, fain to fulfil the sacred Law of worship. 14 Splendid were they when they had rent the mountain: others, around, shall tell forth this their exploit. 15 Eager, with thought intent upon the booty, the men with their celestial speech threw open, 16 The Milch−cow's earliest name they comprehended: they found the Mother's thrice−seven noblest title 17 The turbid darkness fled, the heaven was sp, endid! up rose the bright beam of celestial Morning. 18 Then, afterwards they looked around, awakened, when first they held that Heaven allotted treasure. 19 I will call hither brightly−beaming Agni, the Herald, all−supporting, best at worship. 20 The freest God of all who should be worshipped, the guest who is received in all men's houses,

2 They who with laud extol the ancient statutes, when they shine forth infallible dividers, 3 The Housewife Goddess, Aditi, and Sindhu, the Goddess Svasti I implore for friendship: 4 Aryaman, Varuna have disclosed the pathway, Agni as Lord of Strength the road to welfare. 5 I have besought the favourof the Maruts, of Parvata, of Bhaga God who rescues. 6 Agree, through these our watery oblations, Goddesses, Heaven and Earth, with Ahibudhnya. 7 May Goddess Aditi with Gods defend us, save us the saviour God with care unceasing. 8 Agni is Sovran Lord of wealth, Agni of great prosperity: 9 Hither to us, rich pleasant Dawn, bring many things to be desired, 10 So then may Bhaga, Savitar, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, Indra, with bounty come to us.

5 Ye six divine Expanses, grant us freedom: here, all ye Gods, acquit yourselves like heroes. 6 Baffling the wrath of our opponents, Agni, guard us as our infallible Protector. 7 Lord of the world, Creator of creators the saviour God who overcomes the foeman. 8 Foodful, and much−invoked, at this our calling mty the great Bull vouchsafe us wide protection. 9 Let those who are our foemen stay. afar from us: with Indra and with Agni we will drive them off.

2 He, wondrous envoy, goes between the earth and heaven, firm seated as the Herald, great High Priest of 3 Sages shall glorify Agni with earnest thoughts, ensign of sacrifice, who fills the synod full: 4 The Sire of sacrifice, great God of holy bards, Agni, the measure and the symbol of the priests, 5 Bright Agni with the bright car, Lord of green domains, Vaisvanara dweller in the floods, who finds the 6 Agni, together with the Gods and Manu's folk by thought extending sacrifice in varied form, 7 Sing, Agni, for long life to us and noble sons: teem thou with plenty, shine upon us store of food. 8 The Mighty One, Lord of the people and their guest, the leader of their thoughts, devoted Friend of pries 9 Agni the God resplendent, giver of great joy, hath on his lovely car compassed the lands with, might. 10 I celebrate thy glories, O Vaisvanara, wherewith thou, O farsighted God, has found the light. 11 By his great skill the Sage alone hath brought to pass a great deed, mightier than Vaisvanara's wondrou 2 Agni whom daily Varuna and Mitra the Gods bring thrice a day to this our worship, 3 The thought that bringeth every boon proceedeth to worship first the Priest of the libation, 4 On high your way to sacrifice was made ready; the radiant flames went upward to the regions. 5 Claiming in mind the seven priests' burntoblations, inciting all, they came in settled order. 6 Night and Dawn, lauded, hither come together, both smiling, different are their forms in colour, 8 May Bharati with all her Sisters, Ila accordant with the Gods, with mortalls Agni, 9 Well pleased with us do thou O God, O Tvastar, give ready issue to our procreant vigour, 10 Send to the Gods the oblation, Lord of Forests; and let the Immolator, Agni, dress it. 11 Come thou to us, O Agni, duly kindled, together with the potent Gods and Indra.

2 As rapid chariot−steeds, so turned in several ways have thine exhilarating juices darted forth, 3 Like a steed urged to battle, finder of the light; speed onward to the cloud−born reservoir of heaven, 4 Fleet as swift steeds, thy drops, divine, thought−swift, have been, O Pavamana, poured with milk into th 5 O thou who seest all things, Sovran as thou art and passing strong, thy rays encompass all abodes. 6 The beams of Pavamana, sent from earth and heaven, his ensigns who is ever steadfast, travel round. 7 Served with fair rites he flows, ensign of sacrifice: Soma advances to the special place of Gods. 8 The Sovran dips him in the seain and the streams, and set in rivers with the waters' wave moves on. 9 He on whose high decree the heavens and earth depend nath roared and thundered like the summit of th 10 He, light of sacrifice distils delicious meath, most wealthy, Father and begetter of the Gods. 11 The vigorous and far−seeing one, the Lord of heaven, flows, shouting to the beaker, with his thousand 12 In forefront of the rivers Pavamana speeds, in forefront of the hymn, foremost among the kine. 13 This heedful Pavamana, like a bird sent forth, hath with his wave flowed onward to the fleecy sieve. 14 He, clad in mail that reaches heaven, the Holy One, filling the firmament stationed amid the worlds, 15 He who was first of all to penetrate his form bestowed upon his race wide shelter and defence. 16 Indu hath started for Indra's special place and slights not as a Friend the promise of his Friend. 17 Your songs, exhilarating, tuneful, uttering praise, are come into the placns where the people meet. 18 O Soma, Indu, while they cleanse thee, pour on us accumulateds Plentiful, nutritious food, 19 Far−seeing Soma flows, the Steer, the Lord of hymns, the Furtherer of day, of morning, and of heaven. 20 On, with the prudent singers, flows the ancient Sage and guided by the men hath roared about the vats.

2 Wherewith thou bolpest Adhrigu, the great Dasagva, and the God 3 Wherewith thou dravest forth like cars Sindhu and all the mighty floods 4 Accept this laud for aid, made pure like oil, thou Caster of the Stone, 5 Be pleased, Song−lover, with this song it flows abundant like the sea. 6 The God who from afar hath sent gifts to maintain our friendship's bond, 7 The beams that mark him have grown strong, the thunder rests between his arms, 8 When, Mighty Lord of Heroes, thou didst cat a thousand buffaloes, 9 Indra consumeth with the rays of Surya the malicious man: 10 This newest thought of ours that suits the time approaches unto thee: 11 The pious germ of sacrifice directly purifies the soul. 12 Indra who wins the friend hath spread himself to drink the Soma−draught: 13 He whom the sages, living men, have gladdened, offering up their hymns, 14 Aditi also hath brought forth a hymn for Indra, Sovran Lord: 15 The ministering priests have sung their songs for aid and eulogy: 16 If, Indra, thou drink Soma by Visnu's or Trta Aptya's side, 17 Or, Sakra, if thou gladden thee afar or in the sea of air, 18 Or, Lord of Heroes if thou aid the worshipper who shed; the, juice, 19 To magnify the God, the God, Indra, yea, Indra for your help, 20 With worship, him whom men adore, with Soma, him who drinks it most, 21 His leadings are with power and might and his instructions manifold: 22 For slaying Vrtra have the Gods set Indra in the foremost place.

2 On to the rite they move, the grass they scatter, these Soma−drinkers eloquent in synod. 3 Indra, thou settest free the many waters that were encompassed, Hero, by the Dragon. 4 Skilled in all manly deeds the God terrific hath with his weapons mastered these opponents. 5 No evil spirits have impelled us, Indra, nor fiends, O Mightiest God, with their devices. 6 Thou in thy strength surpassest Earth and Heaven: the regions comprehend not all thy greatness. 7 Even the earlier Deities submitted their powers to thy supreme divine dominion. 8 The humble hath invoked thee for protection, thee, Lord of great felicity, O Indra. 9 May we, O Indra, be thy friends for ever, eagerly, Conqueror, yielding greater homage. 10 Place us by food which thou hast given, O Indra, us and the wealthy patrons who command us. 2 So let the draught of joy, thy dear companion, by which, O Lord of Bays, thou slayest foemen, 3 Mark closely, Maghavan, the words I utter, this eulogy recited by Vasistha: 4 Hear thou the call of the juice−drinking press−stone: hear thou the Brahman's hymn who sings and laud 5 I know and ne'er forget the hymns and praises of thee, the Conqueror, and thy strength immortal. 6 Among mankind many are thy libations, and many a time the pious sageinvokes thee. 7 All these libations are for thee, O Hero: to thee I offer these my prayers. that strengthen. 8 Never do men attain, O Wonder−Worker, thy greatness, Mighty One, who must be lauded, 9 Among all Rsis, Indra, old and recent, who have engendered hymns as sacred singers,

2 Thine is the Herald's task and Cleanser's duly timed; Leader art thou, and Kindler for the pious man. 3 Hero of Heroes, Agni! Thou art Indra, thou art Visnu of the Mighty Stride, adorable: 4 Agni, thou art King Varuna whose laws stand fast; as Mitra, Wonder−Worker, thou must be implored. 5 Thou givest strength, as Tvastar, to the worshipper: thou wielding Mitra's power hast kinship with the 6 Rudra art thou, the Asura of mighty heaven: thou art the Maruts' host, thou art the Lord of food, 7 Giver of wealth art thou to him who honours thee; thou art God Savitar, granter of precious things. 8 To thee, the people's Lord within the house, the folk press forward to their King most graciously incline 9 Agni, men seek thee as a Father with their prayers, win thee, bright−formed, to brotherhood with holy a 10 A Rbhu art thou, Agni, near to be adored thou art the Sovran Lord of foodful spoil and wealth. 11 Thou, God, art Aditi to him who offers gifts: thou, Hotri, Bharati, art strengthened by the song. 12 Thou, Agni, cherished well, art highest vital power; in thy delightful hue are glories visible. 13 Thee, Agni, have the Adityas taken as their mouth; the Bright Ones have made thee, O Sage, to be thei 14 By thee, O Agni, all the Immortal guileless Gods cat with thy mouth the oblation that is offered them. 15 With these thou art united, Agni; yea thou, God of noble birth, surpassest them in majesty, 16 The princely worshippers who send to those who sing thy praise, O Agni, guerdon graced with kine an

2 Golden, sublime, and easy in their motion, his arms extend unto the bounds of heaven. 3 May this God Savitar, the Strong and Mighty, the Lord of precious wealth, vouchsafe us treasures. 4 These songs praise Savitar whose tongue is pleasant, praise him whose arms are full, whose hands are

2 The Everlasting Pair, with full streams, rich in milk, in their pure rule pour fatness for the pious man. 3 Whoso, for righteous life, pours offerings to you, O Heaven and Earth, ye Hemispheres, that man succe 4 Enclosed in fatness, Heaven and Earth are bright therewith: they mingle with the fatness which they still 5 May Heaven and Earth pour down the balmy rain for us, balm−dropping, yielding balm, with balm upo 6 May Heaven and Earth make food swell plenteously for us, all−knowing Father, jother, wondrous in the

2 Whose way is unattainable like Surya's: he in each fight is the strong Vrtra−slayer, 3 Whose paths go forth in their great might resistless, forthmilking, as it were, heaven's genial moisture. 4 Among Angirases he was the chiefest, a Friend with friends, mighty amid the mighty. 5 Strong with the Rudras as with his own children, in manly battle conquering his foemen ' 6 Humbler of pride, exciter of the conflict, the Lord of heroes, God invoked of many, 7 His help hath made him cheerer in the battle, the folk have made him guardian of their comfort. 8 To him the Hero, on high days of prowess, heroes for help and booty shall betake them. 9 He with his left hand checketh even the mighty, and with his righthand gathereth up the booty. 10 With hosts on foot and cars he winneth treasures: well is he known this day by all the people. 11 When in his ways with kinsmen or with strangers he speedeth to the fight, invoked of many, 12 Awful and fierce, fiend−slayer, thunder−wielder, with boundless knowledge, hymned by hundreds, 13 Winning the light, hitherward roars his thunder like the terrific mighty voice of Heaven. 14 Whose home eternal through his strength surrounds him on every side, his laud, the earth and heaven, 15 The limit of whose power not Gods by Godhead, nor mortal men have reached, nor yet the Waters. 16 The red and tawny mare, blaze−marked, high standing, celestial who, to bring Rjrasva riches, 17 The Varsagiras unto thee, O Indra, the Mighty One, sing forth this laud to please thee, 18 He, much invoked, hath slain Dasyus and Simyus, after his wont, and laid them low with arrows. 19 May Indra evermore be our protector, and unimperilled may we win the booty.

2 What hero hath been made his feast−companion? Who hath been partner in his loving−kindness? 3 How heareth Indra offered invocation? How, hearing, marketh he the invoker's wishes? 4 How doth the priest who laboureth, ever longing, win for himself the wealth which he possesseth? 5 How, and what bond of friendship with a mortal hath the God chosen as this morn is breaking? 6 Is then thy friendship with thy friends most mighty? Thy brotherhood with us, −when may we tell it? 7 About to stay the Indra−less destructive spirit he sharpens his keen arms to strike her. 8 Eternal Law hath varied food that strengthens; thought of eternal Law, removes transgressions. 9 Firm−seated are eternal Law's foundations in its fair form are many splendid beauties. 10 Fixing eternal Law he, too, upholds it swift moves the might of Law and wins the booty. 11 Now, Indra! lauded,− glorified with praises, let power swell high like rivers to the singer.

1 I GLORIFY that Ram who finds the light of heaven, whose hundred nobly−natured ones go forth with h 2 Like as a mountain on firm basis, unremoved, he, thousandfold protector, waxed in mighty strength, Wh 5 To him, as in wild joy he fought with him who stayed the rain, his helpers sped like swift streams down 6 Splendour encompassed thee, forth shone thy warrior might: the rain−obstructer lay in mid−air's lowest 7 The hymns which magnify thee, Indra, reach to thee even as water−brooks flow down and fill the lake. 8 When, Indra, thou whose power is linked with thy Bay Steeds hadst smitten Vrtra, causing floods to flo 9 In fear they raised the lofty self−resplendent hymn, praise giving and effectual, leading up to heaven, 10 Then Heaven himself, the mighty, at that Dragon's roar reeled back in terror when, Indra, thy thunderb 11 O Indra, were this earth extended forth tenfold, and men who dwell therein multiplied day by day, 12 Thou, bold of heart, in thine own native might, for help, upon the limit of this mid−air and of heaven, 13 Thou art the counterpart of earth, the Master of lofty heaven with all its mighty Heroes: 14 Whose amplitude the heaven and earth have not attained, whose bounds the waters of mid−air have ne 15 The Maruts sang thy praise in this encounter, and in thee all the Deities delighted,

2 May he who goes before the Gods come hither with steeds whose shapes are varied, Narasarhsa. 3 Men with oblations laud most constant Agni, and pray him to perform an envoy's duty. 4 May the delight of Gods spread out transversely: may it be with us long in length and fragrant. 5 Touch ye the far−extending height of heaven or spring apart to suit the wide earth's measure. 6 Here in this shrine may Dawn and Night, the Daughters of Heaven, the skilful Goddesses, be seated. 7 Up stands the stone, high burns the fire enkindled: Aditi's lap contains the Friendly Natures 8 On our wide grass, Three Goddesses be seated: for you have we prepared and made it pleasant. 9 Since thou, God Tvastar, hast made beauty perfect, since hou hast been the Angirases' Companion, 10 Well−knowing, binding with thy cord, bring hither, Lord of the Wood, the Deities' assembly. 11 Agni, bring hither Varuna to help us, Indra from heaven, from air's mid−realm the Maruts.

2 Whom as a far−foreseeing Sage the Gods have, from the olden time, 3 Do thou, Most Youthful God, protect the men who offer, hear their songs, 4 What is the praise wherewith, O God, Afigiras, Agni, Son of Strength, 5 May serve thee, O thou Child of Power, and with what sacrifice's plan? 6 Our God, make all of us to dwell in happy habitations, and 7 Lord of the house, what plenty fills the songs which thou inspirest now, 8 Hirn Wise and Strong they glorify, the foremost Champion in the fray, 9 Agni, he dwells in rest and peace who smites and no one smites again:

22 What time the loving spirit's word had formed him Chief of all food, by statute of the Highest, 23 The Sage, Celestial, liberal, raining bounties, pours as he flows the Genuine for the Truthful. 24 He who beholds mankind, made pure with filters, the King supreme of Deities and mortals, 25 Haste, like a steed, to vittory for glory, to Indra's and to Vayu's entertainment. 26 Effused by us let God−delighting Somas bring as they flow a home with noble heroes. 27 So, God, for service of the Gods flow onward, flow, drink of Gods, for ample food, O Soma. 28 Thou, yoked by strong men, neighest like a courser, swifter than thought is, like an awful lion. 29 Sprung from the Gods, a hundred streams, a thousand, have been effused: sages prepare and purge the 30 The streams of days, were poured as 'twere from heaven: the wise King doth not treat his friend unkind 31 Now are thy streams poured forth with all their sweetness, when, purified. thou goest through the filter 32 Bright, bellowing aiong the path of Order, thou shinest as the form of life eternal. 33 Pouring out streams at the Gods' feast with service, thou, Soma, lookest down, a heavenly Eagle. 34 Three are the voices that the Courser utters: he speaks the thought of prayer, the law of Order. 35 To Soma come the Cows, the Milch−kine longing, to Soma sages with their hvmns inquiring. 36 Thus, Soma, as we pour thee into vessels, while thou art purified flow for our welfare. 37 Singer of true songs, ever−watchful, Soma hath settled in the ladles when they cleanse him. 38 Cleansed near the Sun as 'twere he as Creator hath filled full heaven and earth, and hath disclosed the 39 He, being cleansed, the Strengthener and Increaser, Soma the Bounteous, helped us with his lustre, 40 In the first vault of heaven loud roared the Ocean, King of all being, generating creatures. 41 Soma the Steer, in that as Child of Waters he chose the Gods, performed that great achievement.

2 Drink of the juice which men have washed in waters, and fill thee full, O Lord of Tawny Horses. 3 To make thee start, a strong true draught I offer to thee, the Bull, O thou whom Bay Steeds carry. 4 O Mighty Indra, through thine aid, thy prowess, obtaining life, zealous, and skilled in Order, 5 Through thy directions, Lord of Tawny Coursers, thine who art firm, splendid, and blest, the people 6 Lord of the Bays, come with thy two Bay Horses, come to our prayers, to drink the juice of Soma. 7 Him of a thousand powers, subduing foemen, Maghavan praised with hymns and pleased with Soma,− 8 The way to bliss for Gods and man thou foundest, Indra, seven lovely floods, divine, untroubled, 9 Thou from the curse didst free the mighty Waters, and as their only God didst watch and guard them. 10 Heroic power and noble praise is Indra yea, the song worships him invoked of many. 11 Call we on Maghayan, auspicious Indra. best Hero in this fight where spoil is gathered,

2 He made the heaven and earth resplendent by his birth: Child of two Mothers he was meet to be implore 3 Within the range of their surpassinq power, by might, the Gods created Agni with inventive thought. 4 Eager to gain, we crave from him the friendly God strength confident, choiceworthy meet to be extolled 5 For happiness, men, having trimmed the sacred grass, set Agni glorious for his strength before them her 6 Around thy dwelling−place, O brightly−shining Priest, are men at sacrifice, whose sacred grass is trimm 7 He hath filled heaven and earth and the great realm of light, when at his birth the skilful held him in thei 8 Honour the oblation−bearer, him who knows fair rites, serve ye the Household Friend who knows all thi 9 They who are free from death, fain for him, purified three splendours of the mighty Agni, circling all. 10 Man's sacrificial food hath sharpened like an axe, for brightness, him the Sage of men, the people's Lor 11 He stirs with life in wombs dissimilar in kind, born as a Lion or a loudly−bellowing Bull: 12 Vaisvanara, as of old, mounted the cope of heaven, heaven's ridge, well greeted, by those skilled in no 13 For new prosperity we seek to Agni, him whose course is splendid, gold−haired, excellently bright, 14 As pure and swift of course, beholder of the light, who stands in heaven's bright sphere a sign, who wa 15 The cheerful Priest, the pure, in whom no guile is found, Friend of the House, praise−worthy, dear to a

2 Agni, do thou accept my laud, be magnified by this my song: 3 Agni, envoy, I place in front; the oblation−bearer I address: 4 Agni, the lofty flames of' thee enkindled have gone up on high, 5 Beloved! let my ladles full of sacred oil come near to thee: 6 I worship Agni−may he hear!−the cheerful, the Invoker, Priest, 7 Ancient Invoker, meet for praise, beloved Agni, wise and strong, 8 Agni, best Angiras, accept straightway these offerings, and guide 9 Excellent God, with brilliant flames, enkindled bring thou hitherward, 10 Him, Sage and Herald, void of guile, ensign of sacrifices, him 11 O Agni, be our Guardian thou, God, against those who injure us: 12 Making his body beautiful, Agni the Sage hath waxen by 13 I invocate the Child of Strength, Agni with purifying flame, 14 So Agni, rich in many friends, with fiery splendour, seat thyself 15 The mortal man who serves the God Agni within his own abode, 16 Agni is head and height of heaven, the Master of the earth is he: 17 Upward, O Agni, rise thy flames, pure and resplendent, blazing high, 18 For, Agni, thou as Lord of Light rulest o'er choicest gifts: may I, 19 O Agni, they who understand stir thee to action with their thoughts: 20 We ever claim the friendship of Agni, the singing messenger, 21 Agni who bears most holy sway, the holy Singer, holy Sage, 22 Yea, let my meditations, let my songs exalt thee evermore. 23 If I were thou and thou wert I, O Agni, every prayer of thine 24 For Excellent and Lord of wealth. art thou O Agni, rich in light: 25 Agni, to thee whose laws stand fast our resonant songs of praise speed forth, 26 Agni, the Youthful Lord of men, who stirreth much and eateth all, 27 To Agni let us haste with lauds, the Guide of sacrificial rites, 28 And let this man, good Agni, be with thee the singer of thy praise: 29 For thou art sharer of our feast, wise, ever watchful as a Sage: 30 O Agni, Sage, before our foes, before misfortunes fall on us,

2 Agni, in truth, is passing wise, most skilled in ordering, a Seer. 3 The foeman's wealth in many a place, Agni, is emulous to help. 4 Agni bestows the hero chief, winner of waters, firm in fray. 5 For with his wisdom Agni, God, protects the mortal from reproach, 6 O Agni, God with Mitra's might call hither the favour of the Gods from earth and heaven.

2 give us not as a prey to death, to be destroyed by thee in wrath, 3 To gain thy mercy, Varuna, with hymns we bind thy heart, as binds 4 They flee from me dispirited, bent only on obtaining wealths 5 When shall we bring, to be appeased, the Hero, Lord of warrior might, 6 This, this with joy they both accept in common: never do they fail 7 He knows the path of birds that fly through heaven, and, Sovran of the sea, 8 True to his holy law, he knows the twelve moons with their progeny: 9 He knows the pathway of the wind, the spreading, high, and mighty wind 10 Varuna, true to holy law, sits down among his people; he, 11 From thence percerving he beholds all wondrous things, both what hath been, 12 May that Aditya, very −wise, make fair paths for us all our days: 13 Varuna, wearing golden mail, hath clad him in a shining robe. 14 The God whom enemies threaten not, nor those who tyrannize o'er men, 15 He who gives glory to mankind, not glory that is incomplete, 16 Yearning for the wide−seeing One, my thoughts move onward unto him, 17 Once more together let us speak, because my meath is brought: priest−like 18 Now saw I him whom all may see, I saw his car above the earth: 19 Varuna, hear this call of mine: be gracious unto us this day 20 Thou, O wise God, art Lord of all, thou art the King of earth and heaven 21 Release us from the upper bond, untie the bond between, and loose

2 'Tis Agni whom we laud as good, to whom the milch−kine come in herds, 3 Agni the God of all mankind, gives, verily, a steed to man. 4 God, Agni, we will kindle thee, rich in thy splendour, fading not, 5 To thee the splendid, Lord of flame, bright, wondrous, Prince of men, is brought. 6 These Agnis in the seats of the fire nourish each thing most excellent. 7 Agni, these brilliant flames of thine wax like strong chargers mightily, 8 To us who laud thee, Agni, bring fresh food and safe and happy homes. 9 Thou, brilliant God, within thy mouth warmest both ladies of the oil. 10 Thus Agni have we duly served with sacrifices and with hymns.

1 O WORTHY of oblation, Lord of prospering powers, assume thy robes, 2 Sit ever to be chosen, as our Priest., most youthful, through our hymns, 3 For here a Father for his son, Kinsman for kinsman worshippeth, 4 Fiere let the foe−destroyers sit, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, 5 O ancient Herald, be thou glad in this our rite and fellowship: 6 Whate'er in this perpetual course we sacrifice to God and God, 7 May he be our dear household Lord, Priest, pleasant and, choice−worthy may 8 The Gods, adored with brilliant fires. have granted precious wealth to us 9 And, O Immortal One, so may the eulogies of mortal men 10 With all thy fires, O Agni, find pleasure in this our sacrifice,

2 The Sapient One arrays himself in every form: for quadruped and biped he hath brought forth good. 3 Even he, the God whose going−forth and majesty the other Deities have followed with their might, 4 To the three spheres of light thou goest, Savitar, and with the rays of Sidrya thou combinest thee. 5 Over all generation thou art Lord alone: Pusan art thou, O God, in all thy goings−forth.

1 WITH words sent forth in holy hymns, Agni we supplicate, the Lord Of 2 Men have won Agni, him who makes their strength abound: we, with oblations, worship thee. 3 Thee for our messenger we choose, thee, the Omniscient, for our Priest. 4 The Gods enkindle thee their ancient messenger, − Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman. 5 Thou, Agni, art a cheering Priest, Lord of the House, men's messenger: 6 In thee, the auspicious One, O Agni, youthfullest, each sacred gift is offered up: 7 To him in his own splendour bright draw near in worship the devout. 8 Vrtra they smote and slew, and made the earth and heaven and firmament a wide abode. 9 Seat thee, for thou art mighty; shine, best entertainer of the Gods. 10 Bearer of offerings, whom, best sacrificing Priest, the Gods for Manu's sake ordained; 11 Him, Agni, whom Medhyatithi, whom Kanva kindled for his rite, 12 Make our wealth perfect thou, O Agni, Lord divine: for thou hast kinship with the Gods. 13 Stand up erect to lend us aid, stand up like Savitar the God: 14 Erect, preserve us from sore trouble; with thy flame burn thou each ravening demon dead. 15 Preserve us, Agni, from the fiend, preserve us from malicious wrong. 16 Smite down as with a club, thou who hast fire for teeth, smite thou the wicked, right and left. 17 Agni hath given heroic might to Kainva, and felicity: 18 We call on Ugradeva, Yadu, Turvasa, by means of Agni, from afar; 19 Manu hath stablished thee a light, Agni, for all the race of men: 20 The flames of Agni full of splendour and of might are fearful, not to be approached.

1 SPEAK forth three words, the words which light precedeth, which milk this udder that produceth nectar 2 Giver of growth to plants, the God who ruleth over the waters and all moving creatures, 3 Now he is sterile, now begetteth offspring, even as he willeth doth he change his figure. 4 In him all living creatures have their being, and the three heavens with triplyflowing waters. 5 May this my song to Sovran Lord Parjanya come near unto his heart and give him pleasure. May we obt 1 SING forth and laud Parjanya, son of Heaven, who sends the gift of rain 2 Parjanya is the God who forms in kine, in mares, in plants of earth, 3 Offer and pour into his mouth oblation rich in savoury juice:

2 So, too, like charioteers are they, Mitra and sapient Varuna, 3 These Twain, possessors of all wealth, most glorious, for supremest sway 4 Great Varuna and Mitra, Gods, Asuras and imperial Lords, 5 The offspring of a lofty Power, Daksa's Two Sons exceeding strong, 6 Ye who have gathered up your gifts, celestial and terrestrial food, 7 The Twain, who from the lofty sky seem to look down on herds below, 8 They, true to Law, exceeding strong, have sat them down for savran rule: 9 Pathfinders even better than the eye, with unobstructed sight, 10 So may the Goddess Aditi, may the Nasatyas guard us well, 11 Do ye, O Bounteous Gods, protect our dwelling lace by day and night: 12 May we, unharmed, serve bountiful Visnu, the God who slayeth none: 13 This sure protection we elect, desirable and reaching far, 14 And may the Sindhu of the floods, the Maruts, and the ASvin Pair, 15 Because these warring Heroes stay the enmity of every foe, 16 Here this one God, the Lord of men, looks forth exceeding far and wide: 17 We keep the old accustomed laws, the statutes of supremacy, 18 He who hath measured with his ray the boundaries of heaven and earth, 19 Surya hath spread his light aloft up to the region of the sky, 20 With him who sits afar the word is lord of food that comes from kine, 21 So unto Surya, Heaven, and Earth at morning and at eve I speak. 22 From Uksanyayana a bay, from Harayana a white steed, 23 These two shall bring me further gain of troops of tawny−coloured steeds, 24 And the two sages have I gained who hold the reins and bear the whip,

2 For, verily, men pray to thee with sacrifices and with songs. 3 Of one accord men kindle thee Heaven's signal of the sacrifice, 4 Let the man thrive who travails sore, in prayer, far thee the Bountiful. 5 The mortal who with fuel lights thy flame and offers unto thee, 6 Thy bright smoke lifts itself aloft, and far−extended shines in heaven. 7 For in men's houses thou must be glorified as a well−loved guest, 8 Thou, Agni, like an able steed, art urged by wisdom in the wood. 9 E'en things imperishable, thou, O Agni, like a gazing ox, 10 Agni, thou enterest as Priest the home of men who sacrifice. 11 O Agni, God with Mitra's might, call hither the favour of the Gods from earth and heaven.

4 Lord of the lofty sacrifice is Agni, Agni is Lord of every gift presented. 5 O Agni, bring the Gods to taste our presents: with Indra leading, here let them be joyful.

2 Agni, to thee I lift the oil−fed ladle, bright, with an offering, bearing our oblation. 3 Of keenest spirit is the man thou aidest give us good offspring, thou who givest freely. 4 Men as they worship thee the God, O Agni, have set on thee full many a brilliant, aspect. 5 When Gods anoint thee Priest at their oblation, and seat thee for thy task as Sacrificer, 2 Three are thy powers, O Agni, three thy stations, three are thy tongues, yea, many, Child of Order! 3 O Agni, many are the names thou bearest, immortal, God, Divine, and Jatavedas. 4 Agni, like Bhaga, leads the godly people, he who is true to Law and guards the seasons. 5 I call on Savitar the God, on Morning, Brhaspati, and Dadhikras, and Agni,

2 When shall thy glory as a God, Agni, be suddenly shown forth. 3 Seeing thee faithful to the Law, most sapient, like the starry heaven, 4 Vivasvan's envoy living men have taken as their ensign, swift, 5 Him the intelligent have they placed duly as Invoking Priest, 6 In his Eternal Mothers, in the wood, concealed and unapproached, 7 That as food spreads forth in this earthly udder, Gods may rejoice them in the home of Order, 8 Bird of each rite, skilled in an envoy's duties, knowing both worlds and that which lies between them, 9 Bright God, thy path is black: light is before thee: thy moving splendour is the chief of wonders. 10 Yet newly born, his vigour is apparent when the wind blows upon his fiery splendour, His sharpened t

2 With callings ever they invoke Agni, Agni, Lord of the House, 3 Bring the Gods hither, Agni, born for him who strews the sacred grass: 4 Wake up the willing Gods, since thou, Agni, performest embassage: 5 O Agni, radiant One, to whom the holy oil is poured, bum up 6 By Agni Agni is inflamed, Lord of the House, wise, young, who bears 7 Praise Agni in the sacrifice, the Sage whose ways are ever true, 8 God, Agni, be his strong defence who lord of sacrificial gifts, 9 Whoso with sacred gift would fain call Agni to the feast of Gods, 10 Such, Agni, Purifier, bright, bring hither to our sacrifice, 11 So lauded by our newest song of praise bring opulence to us, 12 O Agni, by effulgent flame, by all invokings of the Gods,

2 To him the tones of sacred song have sounded, Steer of the triple height, the Life−bestower. 3 Great Conqueror, warnor−girt, Lord of all heroes, flow on thy way as he who winneth riches; 4 Giving security, Lord of wide dominion, send us both earth and heaven with all their fulness. 5 O Soma, gladden Varuna and Mitra; cheer, Indu Pavamana! Indra, Visnu. 6 Thus like a wise and potent King flow onward, destroying with thy vigour all misfortunes.

2 The Holy, whose are earth and heaven, and succour waits upon his strength; 3 He is the Sage who guides these men, Leader of sacred rites is he. 4 So may the gracious Agni grant most goodly shelter for our use; 5 The singers kindle him, the Priest, Agni the Lord of tribes of men, 6 Help us, thou Brahman, best of all invokers of the Gods in song. 7 Yea, grant us treasure thousandfold with children and with nourishm

2 Wise must this Agni be, though young and tender, since he was born, Most Youthful, of his Mother; 3 Before his presence must we all assemble, this God's whom men have seized in his white splendour. 4 Far−seeing hath this Agni been established, deathless mid mortals, wise among the foolish. 5 He who hath occupied his God−made dwelling, Agni, in wisdom hath surpassed Immortals. 6 Agni is Lord of Amrta. in abundance, Lord of the gift of wealth and hero valour, 7 The foeman's treasure may be won with labour: may we be masters of our own possessions. 8 Unwelcome for adoption is the stranger, one to be thought of as another's offipring, 9 Guard us from him who would assail us, Agni; preserve us O thou Victor, from dishonour. 10 Shine this felicity on us, O Agni: may we attain to perfect understanding.

2 Auspicious Friends to us be Bhaga, Sathsa, auspicious be Purandhi aid all Riches; 3 Kind unto us he Maker and Sustainer, and the far−reaching Pair with God−like natures. 4 Favour us Agni with his face of splendour, and Varuva and Mitra and the Asvins. 5 Early invoked, may Heaven and Earth be friendly, and Air's mid−region good for us to look on. 6 Be the God Indra with the Vasus friendly, and, with Adityas, Varuna who blesseth. 7 Blest unto us be Soma, and devotions, blest be the Sacrifice, the Stones for pressing. 8 May the far−seeing Sun rise up to bless us: be the four Quarters of the sky auspicious. 9 May Adid through holy works be gracioas, and may the Maruts, loud in song, be friendly. 10 Prosper us Savitar, the God who rescues, and let the radiant Mornings be propitious. 11 May all the fellowship of Gods befriend us, Sarasvati, with Holy Thoughts, be gracious. 12 May the great Lords of Truth protect and aid us: blest to us be our horses and our cattle. 13 May Aja−Ekapad, the God, be gracious, gracious the Dragon of the Deep, and Ocean. 14 So may the Rudras, Vasus, and Adityas accept the new hymn which we now are making. 15 They who of Holy Gods are very holy, Immortal, knowing Law, whom man must worship,−

2 Indra and Pusan, deft of hand and mighty, well−pleased have drained the heaven's exhaustless udder. 3 Fain to lend vigour to the Bull, the siste.. with reverence recognize the germ within him. 4 Fixing with thought, at sacrifice, the press−stones, I bid the well−formed Heaven and Earth come hither 5 Agni, thy meath−sweet tongue that tastes fair viands, which among Gods is called the far−extended,− 6 Let thy stream give us drink, O God, O Agni, wonderful and exhaustless like the rain−clouds.

2 Set Jatavedas in his place, Agni the God and Minister. 3 All mortals come to thee for aid, the God of most observant mind. 4 Mark with attention this our speech, O Agni, thou victorious One.

2 Visit, to prove us free from sin, O Surya Lord of great might, the bright Gods sprung from Daksa, 3 And, O ye Heaven and Earth, a wide dominion, O ye most blissful Worlds, our lofty shelter, 4 This day invited may the Sons of Rudra, resistless, excellent, stoop down to meet us; 5 To whom the Goddess Rodasi clings closely, whom Pusan follows bringing ample bounty. 6 With a new hymn extol, O thou who singest, the Lover of the Song, the Hero Indra. 7 Give full protection, Friends of man, ye Waters, in peace and trouble, to our sons and grandsons. 8 May Savitar come hither and approach us, the God who rescues, Holy, goldenhanded, 9 And thou, O Son of Strength, do thou turn hither the Gods to−day to this our holy service. 10 Come also to my call, O ye Nasatyas, yea, verily, through my prayers, ye Holy Sages. 11 O Gods, bestow upon us riches, splendid with strength and heroes, bringing food in plenty. 12 May Rudra and Sarasvati, accordant, Visnu and Vayu, pour down gifts and bless us; 13 May this God Savitar, the Lord, the Offspring of Waters, pouring down his dew be gracious, 14 May Aja−Ekapad and Ahibudhnya, and Earth and Ocean hear our invocation; 15 So with my thoughts and hymns of praise the children of Bharadvaja sing aloud to please you.

2 Our sires with lauds burst e'en the firmset fortress, yea, the Angirases, with roar, the mountain. 3 They stablished order, made his service fruitful; then parting them among the longing faithful, 4 Since Matarisvan, far−diffused, bath stirred him, and he in every house grown bright and noble, 5 When man poured juice to Heaven, the mighty Father, he knew and freed himself from close embracem 6 Whoso, bath flames for thee within his dwelling, or brings the worship which thou lovest daily, 7 All sacrificial viands wait on Agni as the Seven mighty Rivers seek the ocean. 8 When light bath filled the Lord of men for increase, straight from the heaven descends the limpid moist 9 He who like thought goes swiftly on his journey, the Sun, alone is ever Lord of riches. 10 O Agni, break not our ancestral friendship, Sage as thou art, endowed with deepest knowledge.

2 He who like Savitar the God, true−minded protecteth with his power. all acts of vigour, 3 He who on earth dwells like a king surrounded by faithful friends, like a God all−sustaining, 4 Thee, such, in settlements secure, O Agni, our men serve ever kindled in each dwelling. 5 May thy rich worshippers win food, O Agni, and princes gain long life who bring oblation. 6 The cows of holy law, sent us by Heaven, have swelled with laden udders, loudly lowing; 7 Agni, with thee, soliciting thy favour, the holy Ones have gained glory in heaven. 8 May we and those who worship be the mortals whom thou, O Agni, leadest on to riches. 9 Aided by thee, O Agni, may we conquer steeds with steeds, men with men, heroes with heroes, 10 May these our hymns of praise, Agni, Ordainer, be pleasant to thee in thy heart and spirit.

23 Full many a deed ye did for our forefathers worthy of lauds which, even of old, they sang you. 24 Ours, O ye Maruts, be the vigorous Hero, the Lord Divine of men, the strong Sustainer, Wi

2 Mark the Law, thou who knowest, yea, observe it: send forth the full streams of eternal Order. 3 How hast thou, follower of the Law eternal, become the knower of a new song, Agni? 4 Who, Agni, in alliance with thy foeman, what splendid helpers won for them their riches? 5 Agni, those friends of thine have turned them from thee: gracious of old, they have become ungracious. 6 He who pays sacrifice to thee with homage, O Agni, keeps the Red Steer's Law eternal;

2 For him, strong, independent Ruler, Heaven and Earth have fashioned forth for power and might. 3 Fill thyself full, O Lord of wealth, O Indra, with the juice we shed. 4 Changeless in truth, O Maghavan Indra, let it be as thou in wisdom willest it. 5 Indra, with all thy saving helps give us assistance, Lord of power. 6 Increaser of our steeds and multiplying kine, a golden well, O God, art thou, 7 For thou,−come to the worshipper!−wilt find great wealth to make us rich. 8 Thou as thy gift bestowest many hundred herds, yea, many thousands dost thou give. 9 Whether the simple or the sage, Indra, have offered praise to thee, 10 If he the Strong of arm, the breaker−down of forts, the great Destroyer, hear my call, 11 We count not then as sinners, nor as niggardly or foolish men, 12 Him have we yoked in fight, the powerful Conqueror, debt−claimer, not to be deceived. 13 Indra, give us security from that whereof we are afraid. 14 For thou, O liberal Lord of bounty, strengthenest his ample home who worships thee. 15 Indra is Vrtra−slayer, guard, our best defender from the foe. 16 Defend us from behind, below, above, in front, on all sides, Indra, shield us well. 17 Protect us, Indra, each to−day, each morrow, and each following day. 18 A crushing Warrior, passing rich is Maghavan, endowed with all heroic might.

2 Here magnify his great heroic exploits, most glorious One, enriching men with bounties, 3 Hither let Indra come from earth or heaven, hither with speech from firmament or ocean; 4 That Indra will we laud in our assemblies, him who is Lord of great and lasting riches, 5 May the Priest, Lord of many blessings, striving,−who fixing reverence on reverence, giving 6 When sitting pondering in deep devotion in Ausija's abode they ply the press−stone, 7 Surely the power of Bharvara the mighty for ever helpeth to support the singer; 8 When he unbars the spaces of the mountains, and quickens with his floods the water−torrents, 9 Auspicious are thy hands, thine arms wellfashioned which proffer bounty, Indra, to thy praiser. 10 So Indra is the truthful Lord of treasure. Freedom he gave to man by slaying Vrtra. 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let power swell high, like rivers, for,the singer.

2 Drink it thou God who art impetuous victor, Lord of our hymns, with beauteousjaws, the Hero, 3 Drink as of old, and let the draught delight thee. hear thou our prayer and let our songs exalt thee. 4 These gladdening drops, O Indra, Self−sustainer, quaffed shall augment thee in thy mighty splendour. 5 Gladdened whereby, bursting the firm enclosures, thou gavest splendour to the Sun and Morning. 6 Thou with thy wisdom, power, and works of wonder, hast stored the ripe milk in the raw cows' udders 7 Thou hast spread out wide earth, a mighty marvel, and, high thyself, propped lofty heaven, O Indra. 8 Yea, Indra, all the Deities installed thee their one strong Champion in the van for battle. 9 Yea, e'en that heaven itself of old bent backward before thy bolt, in terror of its anger, 10 Yea, Strong One! Tvastar turned for thee, the Mighty, the bolt with thousand spikes and hundred edges 11 He dressed a hundred buffaloes, O Indra, for thee whom all accordant Maruts strengthen. 12 Thou settest free the rushing wave of waters, the floods' great swell encompassed and obstructed. 13 So may our new prayer bring thee to protect us, thee well−armed Hero with thy bolt of thunder, 14 So, Indra, form us brilliant holy singers for strength, for glory, and for food and riches. 15 With this may we obtain strength God−appointed, and brave sons gladden us through a hundred winter

2 O Indra, where the ground is hard to traverse, smite down our foes, the mortals who assail us, 3 God of the fair helm, give Sudas a hundred succours, a thousand blessings, and thy bounty. 4 I wait the power of one like thee, O Indra, gifts of a Helper such as thou art, Hero. 5 Here are the Kutsas supplicating Indra for might, the Lord of Bays for God−sent conquest. 6 With precious things, O Indra, thus content us: may we attain to thine exalted favour.

21 I praise with song the Friend of man, whom Gods sent down to be herald and messenger, 22 Thou unto sharp−toothed Agni, Young and Radiant God, proclaimest with thy song the feast− 23 While, served with sacrificial oil, now upward and now downward Agni moves his sword, 24 The God, the Friend of man, who bears our gifts to heaven, the God with his sweet−smelling mouth, 25 Son of Strength, Agni, if thou wert the mortal, bright as Mitra, I worshipped with our gifts! 26 I would not give thee up, Vasu, to calumny, or misery, O Bounteous One. 27 Like a son cherished in his father's houi§e, let our oblation rise unto the Gods. 28 With thine immediate aid may I, excellent Agni, ever gain my wish 29 O Agni, by thy wisdom, by thy bounties, by thy leading may I gather wealth. 30 Agni, he conquers by thine aid that brings him store of noble heroes and great strength, 31 Thy spark is black and crackling, kindled in due time, O Bounteous, it is taken up. 32 We Sobharis have come to him, for succour, who is good to help with thousand powers, 33 O Agni, thou on whom all other fires depend, as branches on the parent stem, 34 The mortal whom, Adityas, ye, Guilelew, lead to the farther bank 35 Whoe'er he be, Man−ruling Kings! the Regent of the race of men− 36 A gift of fifty female slaves hath Trasadasyu given me, Purukutsa's son, 37 And Syava too for me led forth a strong steed at Suvastu's ford: 2 Maruts, Rbhuksans, Rudras come ye with your cars strong−fellied and exceeding bright. 3 For well we know the vigorous might of Rudra's Sons, the Martits, who are passing strong, 4 Islands are bursting forth and misery is stayed: the heaven and earth are joined in one. 5 Even things immovable shake and reel, the mountains and the forest trees at your approach, 6 To lend free course, O Maruts, to your furious rush, heaven high and higher still gives way, 7 After their Godlike nature they, the bull.

2 The Fathers, who drave forth the wealth in cattle, have in the year's courses cleft Vala by Eternal Law: 3 Ye raised the Sun to heaven by everlasting Law, and spread broad earth, the Mother, out on every side. 4 This kinsman in your dwellingplace speaks pleasant words: give car to this, ye Rsis, children of the God 5 Distinguished by their varied form, these Rsis have been deeply moved. 6 Distinguished by their varied form, they sprang from Agni, from the sky. 7 With Indra for associate the priests have cleared the stable full of steeds and kine, 8 May this man's sons be multiplied; like springing corn may Manu grow, 9 No one attains to him, as though a man would grasp the heights of heaven. 10 Yadu and Turva, too, have given two Dasas, well−disposed, to serve, 11 Blest be the hamlet's chief, most liberal Manu, and may his bounty rival that of Surya.