Rig Veda on Nature

2 He, praised of many, bold, invoked of many, alone is glorified at sacrifices. 3 They make their way to Indra and exalt him, bim whom no prayers and no laudations trouble; 4 As brightness mingles with the Moon in heaven, the offered Soma yearns to mix with Indra. 5 To him this mighty eulogy, to Indra hath this our laud been uttered by the poets,

2 He, like the Sun, hath shone while Morn is breaking, and priests who weave the sacrifice sing praises, 3 Our songs and holy hymns go forth to Agni, seeking the God and asking him for riches, 4 joined with the Vasus, Agni, bring thou Indra bring hither mighty Rudra with the Rudras, 5 Men eagerly implore at sacrifices Agni, Most Youthful God, the joyous Herald.

2 All manliness that is in heaven, with the Five Tribes, or in mid−air, 3 Remember Kanva first of all among the singers, Asvins, who 4 Asvins, for you with song of praise this hot oblation is effused, 5 Whatever ye have done in floods, in the tree, Wonder−Workers, and in growing plants, 6 What force, Nasatyas, ye exert, whatever, Gods, ye tend and heal, 7 Now hath the Rsi splendidly thought out the Asvins' hymn of praise. 8 Ye Asvins, now ascend your car that lightly rolls upon its way. 9 When, O Nasatyas, we this day make you speed hither with our hymns, 10 As erst Kaksivan and the Rsi Vyasva, as erst Dirghatamas invoked your presence, 11 Come as home−guardians, saving us from foemen, guarding our living creatures and our bodies, 12 Whether with Indra ye be faring, Asvins, or resting in one dwelling−place with Vayu, 13 When I, O Asvins, call on you to−day that I may gather strength, 14 Now come, ye Asvins, hitherward: here are oblations set for you; 15 Whatever healing balm is yours, Nisatyas, near or far away, 16 Together with the Goddess, with the Asvins' Speech have I awoke. 17 Awake the Asvins, Goddess Dawn! Up Mighty Lady of sweet strains! 18 Thou, Dawn, approaching with thy light shinest together with the Sun, 19 When yellow stalks give forth the juice, as cows from udders pour their milk, 20 Forward for glory and for strength, protection that shall conquer men, 21 When Asvins, worthy of our lauds, ye seat you in the father's house.

2 That day when thou wast born thou, fain to taste it, drankest the plant's milk which the mountains nouris 3 Desiring food he came unto his Mother, and on her breast beheld the pungent Soma. 4 Fierce, quickly conquering, of surpassing vigour, he framed his body even as he listed. 5 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered;

2 Most frequent guests, they scorn not what is ready: even now the lauded Asvins are beside us. 3 Yea, come at milking−time, at early morning, at noon of day and when the Sun is setting, 4 For this place, Asvins, was of old your dwelling, these were your houses, this your habitation. 5 May we obtain the Asvins' newest favour, and gain their health−bestowing happy guidance.

2 Kings, guards of rrtighty everlasting Order, come hitherward, ye Princes, Lords of Rivers. 3 May the dear God, and Varuna and Mitra conduct us by the most effective pathways, 4 Him who hath wrought for you this car in spirit, who makes the song rise upward and sustains it, 5 To you this laud, O Varuna and Mitra is offered like bright Soma juice to Vayu.

2 Then Trita's Maidens onward urge the Tawny−coloured with the stones, 3 Now like a swan he maketh all the company sing each his hymn: 4 O Soma, viewing heaven and earth, thou runncst like a darting deer 5 The cows have sung with joy to him, even as a woman to her love 6 Bestow illustrious fame on us, both on our liberal lords and me,

8 Thy spirit, that went far away, that visited the Sun and Dawn. 9 Thy spirit, that went far away, away to lofty mountain heights, 10 Thy spirit, that went far away into this All, that lives and moves, 11 Thy spirit, that went far away to distant realms beyond our ken, 12 Thy spirit, that went far away to all that is and is to be,

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 The singers praise him with their song, and learned priests adorn the Steed, 3 These things thou winnest lightly while purified, Soma, Lord of wealth: 4 Winning all precious things at once, flow on, O Soma, with thy stream 5 Preserve us from the godless, from ill−omened voice of one and all, 6 O Indu, as thou flowest on bring us the wealth of earth and heaven,

2 Ye, Mothers, have a hundred homes, yea, and a thousand are your growths. 3 Be glad and joyful in the Plants, both blossoming and bearing fruit, 4 Plants, by this name I speak to you, Mothers, to you the Goddesses: 5 The Holy Fig tree is your home, your mansion is the Parna tree: 6 He who hath store of Herbs at hand like Kings amid a crowd of men,− 7 Herbs rich in Soma, rich in steeds, in nourishments, in strengthening power,− 8 The healing virtues of the Plants stream forth like cattle from the stall,− 9 Reliever is your mother's name, and hence Restorers are ye called. 10 Over all fences have they passed, as steals a thief into the fold. 11 When, bringing back the vanished strength, I hold these herbs within my hand, 12 He through whose frame, O Plants, ye creep member by member, joint by joint,− 13 Fly, Spirit of Disease, begone, with the blue jay and kingfisher. 14 Help every one the other, lend assistance each of you to each, 15 Let fruitful Plants, and fruitless, those that blossom, and the blossomless, 16 Release me from the curse's plague and woe that comes from Varuna; 17 What time, descending from the sky, the Plants flew earthward, thus they spake: 18 Of all the many Plants whose King is, Soma, Plants of hundred forms, 19 O all ye various Herbs whose King is Soma, that o'erspread the earth, 20 Unharmed be he who digs you up, unharmed the man for whom I dig: 21 All Plants that hear this speech, and those that have departed far away,

2 Like chariot−wheels these people all together follow after thee: 3 Not even all the gathered Gods conquered thee, Indra, in the war, 4 When for the sake of those oppressed, and Kutsa as he battled, 5 When, fighting singly, Indra. thou o'ercamest all the furious Gods, thou slewest those who strove with t 6 When also for a mortal man, Indra, thou speddest forth the Sun, 7 What? Vrtra−slayer, art not thou, Maghavan, fiercest in thy wrath? 8 And this heroic deed of might thou, Indra, also hast achieved, 9 Thou, Indra, Mighty One, didst crush Usas, though Daughter of the Sky. 10 Then from her chariot Usas fled, affrighted, from her ruined car. 11 So there this car of Usas lay, broken to pieces, in Vipas, 12 Thou, Indra, didst. with magic power resist the overflowing stream 13 Valiantly didst thou seize and take the store which Susna had amassed, 14 Thou, Indra, also smotest down Kulitara's son Sambara, 15 Of Dasa Varcin's thou didst slay the hundred thousand and the five, 16 So Indra, Lord of Heroes, Powers, caused the unwedded damsel's son, 17 So sapient Indra, Lord of Might, brought Turvaga and Yadu, those 18 Arpa and Citraratha, both Aryas, thou, Indra, slewest swift, 19 Thou, Vrtra−slayer, didst conduct those two forlorn, the blind, the lame. 20 For Divodasa, him who brought oblationt, 1ndra overthrew 21 The thirty thousand Disas he with magic power and weapons sent 22 As such, O Vrtra−slayer, thou art general Lord of kine for all, 23 Indra, whatever deed of might thou hast this day to execute, 24 O Watchful One, may Aryaman the God give thee all goodly things.

2 Grant, Indra Maghavan, invoked of many, to these my friends the strength which thou possessest. 3 King of the living world, of men, is Indra, of all in varied form that earth containeth. 4 Maghavan Indra, when we all invoke him, bountiful ever sendeth strength to aid us: 5 Quick, Indra, give us room and way to riches, and let us bring thy mind to grant us treasures,

2 The fire well−kindIed sings aloud to greet her, and with their hymns the priests are chaming welcome. 3 Apparent eastward are those lights of Morning, sending out lustre, as they rise, around them. 4 Rich Daughter of the Sky, we all behold her, yea, all men look on Dawn as she is breaking. 5 Inspired with loving thoughts this day to greet thee, we and our wealthy nobles have awakened.

8 Of wealth and homes of men thou art the ruler, and opener of the stable of the cattle. 9 By what great might is he renowned as strongest, wherewith the Lofty One stirs up wild battles? 10 Slay us not; bring, bestow onus the ample gift which thou hast to give to him who offers. 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let power swell high, like rivers, for the singer.

2 Come now, ye Asvins, on your car decked with a sun−bright canopy, 3 Come hither from the Nahusas, come, drawn by pure hymns, from mid−air. 4 Come to us hither from the heavens, come from mid−air, well−loved by us: 5 Come, Asvins, to give car to us, to drink the Soma, Asvins, come. 6 As, Heroes, in the olden time the Rsis called you to their aid, 7 Even from the luminous sphere of heaven come to us, ye who find the light, 8 Do others more than we adore the Asvins with their hymns of praise? 9 The holy singer with his hymns hath called you, Asvins, hither−ward; 10 What time, ye Lords of ample wealth, the Lady mounted on your car, 11 Come thence, O Asvins, on your car that hath a thousand ornaments: 12 Cheerers of many, rich in goods, discoverers of opulence, 13 O Asvins, grant us all rich gifts wherewith no man mav interfere. 14 Whether, Nasatyas, ye be nigh, or whether ye be far away, 15 Vatsa the Rsi with his songs, Nasatyas, hath exalted you: 16 Bestow on him, O Asvins, food that strengthens, and that drops with oil, 17 Come to us, ye who slay the foe, Lords of rich treasure, to this hymn. 18 The Priyamedhas have invoked you with all succours that are yours, 19 Come to us, Asvins, ye Who bring felicity, auspicious Ones, 20 Aid us, O Heroes, for those hymns for which ye helped GoSarya erst, 21 And favoured Trasadasyu, ye Heroes, in spoil−deciding fray: 22 O Asvins, may pure hymns of ours, and songs and praises, honour you: 23 Three places of the Asvins, erst concealed, are made apparent now. Both

2 They paint their bright rays on the sky's far limits. the Dawns come on like tribes arrayed for battle. 3 Wealthy, most like to Indra, Dawn hath risen, and brought forth lauds that shall promote our welfare. 4 Bestow on us, O Dawn, that ample bounty which thou didst send to those who sang thy praises; 5 Impelling every God to grant his bounty sending to us the charm of pleasant voices,

2 As Steer of men so Steer of earth and heaven by glory, he whose streams all life hath drunken, 3 He who hath lighted up the joyous castle, wise Courser like the Steed of cloudy heaven, 4 He, doubly born, hath spread in his effulgence through the three luminous realms, through all the region 5 Priest doubly born, he through his love of glory hath in his keeping all things worth the choosing,

2 Not at his own free pleasure did he bear me: he conquered with his strength and manly courage. 3 When with loud cry from heaven down sped the Falcon, thence hasting like the wind he bore the Bold 4 The Falcon bore him from heaven's lofty summit as the swift car of Indra's Friend bore Bhujyu. 5 And now let Maghavan accept the beaker, white, filled with milk, filled with the shining liquid;

2 Whom, well−dis sed, the Blirgus stablished as a rriend, whom men must glorify, high−flaming in the w 3 Be thou the foeless helper of the skilful man, subduer of the enemy near or far away. 4 Him, your refulgent guest, Agni who comes from heaven, the Herald of mankind, well−skilled in sacred 5 Who with his purifying, eye−attracting form hath shone upon the earth as with the light of Dawn; 6 Worship ye Agni, Agni, with your log of wood; praise your beloved, your beloved guest with songs. 7 Agni inflamed with fuel in my song I sing, pure, Cleanser, steadlast, set in tront at sacrifice. 8 Men, Agni, in each age have made thee, Deathiess One, their envoy, offering−bearer, guard adorable. 9 Thou, Agni, ordering the works and ways of both, as envoy of the Gods traversest both the worlds. 10 Him fair of face, rapid, and fair to look on, him very wise may we who know not follow. 11 Him, Agni, thou deliverest and savest who brings him prayer to thee the Wise, O Hero, 12 Guard us from him who would assail us, Agni; preserve us, O thou Victor, from dishonour. 13 Agni, the Priest, is King, Lord of the homestead, he, Jatayedas, knows all generations. 14 Whate'er to−day thou, bright−flamed Priest, enjoyest from the man's rite−for thou art sacrificer− 15 Look thou upon the viands duly laid for thee. Fain would he set thee here to worship Heaven and,Earth 16 Together with all Gods, O fair−faced Agni, be seated first upon the woollined altar, 17 Here the arranging priests, as did Atharvan, rub this Agni forth, 18 For the Gods' banquet be thou born, for full perfection and for weal. 19 O Agni, Lord and Master of men's homesteads, with kindled fuel we have made thee mighty.

21 They who, from home, have gladdened thee, thy servants Parasara, Vasistha, Satayatu, 22 Priest−like, with praise, I move around the altar, earning Paijavana's reward, O Agni, 23 Gift of Paijavana, four horses bear me in foremost place, trained steeds with pearl to deck them. 24 Him whose fame spreads between wide earth and heaven, who, as dispenser, gives each chief his porti 25 Attend on him O ye heroic Maruts as on Sudas's father Divodasa.

1 STRONG are the Somas; come thou nigh; these juices have been mixt with milk: 2 Both Deities who touch the heaven, Indra and Vayu we invoke 3 The singers' for their aid, invoke Indra and Vayu, swift as mind, 4 Mitra and Varupa, renowned as Gods of consecrated might, 5 Those who by Law uphold the Law, Lords of the shining light of Law, 6 Let Varuna be our chief defence, let Mitra guard us with all aids 7 Indra, by Maruts girt, we call to drink the Soma juice: may he 8 Gods, Marut hosts whom Indra leads, distributers of Pusan's gifts, 9 With conquering Indra for ally, strike Vrtra down, ye bounteous Gods 10 We call the Universal Gods, and Maruts to the Soma draught, 11 Fierce comes the Maruts' thundering voice, like that of conquerors, when ye go 12 Born of the laughing lightning. may the Maruts guard us everywhere 13 Like some lost animal, drive to us, bright Pusan, him who bears up heaven, 14 Pusan the Bright has found the King, concealed and bidden in a cave, 15 And may he. duly bring to me the six bound closely, through these drops, 16 Along their paths the Mothers go, Sisters of priestly ministrants, 17 May Waters gathered near the Sun, and those wherewith the Sun is joined, 18 I call the Waters, Goddesses, wherein our cattle quench their thirst; 19 Amrit is in the Waters in the Waters there is healing balm 20 Within the Waters−Soma thus hath told me−dwell all balms that heal, 21 O Waters, teem with medicine to keep my body safe from harm, 22 Whatever sin is found in me, whatever evil I have wrought. 23 The Waters I this day have sought, and to their moisture have we come: 24 Fill me with splendour, Agni; give offspring and length of days; the Gods

2 With heroes he shall overcome his hero foes, and spread his wealth by kine wise by himself is be. 3 He, mighty like a raving river's billowy flood, as a bull conquers oxen, overcomes with strength. 4 For him the floods of heaven flow never failing down: first with the heroes he goes forth to war for kine 5 All roaring rivers pour their waters down for him, and many a flawless shelter hath been granted him.

be thou born in the heavens or born in floods, 29 Yea, all the people, all the folk who have good dwellings, each apart, 30 O Agni, so may we, devout, gazed at by men, throughout our days, 31 We venerate with cheerful hearts the cheerful Agni, dear to all, 32 So thou, O Agni rich in light, beaming like Surya with thy rays 33 We pray to thee for this thy gift, Victor the gift that faileth not,

2 Thou art a sacred Bard, a Sage; the meath is offipring of thy sap: 3 All Deities of one accord have come that they may drink of thee: 4 He who containeth in his hands all treasures much to be desired: 5 Who milketh out this mighty Pair, the Earth and Heaven, like mother kine 6 Who in a moment mightily floweth around these two world−halvcs: 7 The Strong One, being purified, hath in the pitchers cried aloud:

2 He who hath come anear to creatures that have life, Immortal Soma flows onward to all of them. 3 He who is poured with milk, he who within the plants hastes bringing treasure for the happiness of God 4 Winner of thousands, he, this Soma, flows along, raising a vigorous voice that wakens with the dawn. 5 The kine with milk dress him who makes the milk increase, Soma, amid the songs, who finds the light o

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 They ask of him: not all learn by their questioning what he, the Sage, hath grasped, as 'twere, with his o 3 To him these ladles go, to him these racing mares: he only will give ear to all the words I speak. 4 Whate'er he meets he grasps and then runs farther on, and straightway, newly born,creeps forward with 5 He is a wild thing of the flood and forest: he hath been laid upon the highest surface.

2 The Fair, the Bright is come with her white offspring; to her the Dark One hath resigned her dwelling. 3 Common, unending is the Sisters' pathway; taught by the Gods, alternately they travel. 4 Bright leader of glad sounds, our eyes behold her; splendid in hue she hath unclosed the portals. 5 Rich Dawn, she sets afoot the coiled−up sleeper, one for enjoyment, one for wealth or worship, 6 One to high sway, one to exalted glory, one to pursue his gain, and one his labour: 7 We see her there, the Child of Heaven apparent, the young Maid, flushing in her shining raiment. 8 She first of endless morns to come hereafter, follows the path of morns that have departed. 9 As thou, Dawn, hast caused Agni to be kindled, and with the Sun's eye hast revealed creation. 10 How long a time, and they shall be together,−Dawns that have shone and Dawns to shine hereafter? 11 Gone are the men who in the days before us looked on the rising of the earlier Morning. 12 Foe−chaser, born of Law, the Law's protectress, joy−giver waker of all pleasant voices, 13 From days eternal hath Dawn shone, the Goddess, and shows this light to−day, endowed with riches. 14 In the sky's borders hath she shone in splendour: the Goddess hath thrown off the veil of darkness. 15 Bringing all life−sustaining blessings with her, showing herself she sends forth brilliant lustre. 16 Arise! the breath, the life, again hath reached us: darkness hath passed away and light approacheth. 17 Singing the praises of refulgent Mornings with his hymn's web the priest, the poet rises. 18 Dawns giving sons all heroes, kine and horses, shining upon the man who brings oblations,− 19 Mother of Gods, Aditi's forui of glory, ensign of sacrifice, shine forth exalted. 20 Whatever splendid wealth the Dawns bring with them to bless the man who offers praise and worship,

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 The Son left not his portion to the brother, he made a home to hold him who should gain, it. 3 Agni was born trembling with tongue that flickered, so that the Red's great children should be honoured. 4 Conquering bands upon the Warrior waited: they recognized great light from out the darkness. 5 The sages freed them from their firmbuilt prison: the seven priests drove them forward with their spirit. 6 When Sarama had found the mountain's fissure, that vast and ancient place she plundered thoroughly. 7 Longing for friendship came the noblest singer: the hill poured forth its treasure for the pious. 8 Peer of each noble thing, yea, all excelling, all creatures doth he know, he slayeth Susna. 9 They sate them down with spirit fain for booty, making with hymns a way to life eternal. 10 Drawing the milk of ancient seed prolific, they joyed as they beheld their own possession. 11 Indra drove forth the kine, that Vrtra−slayer, while hymns of praise rose up and gifts were offered. 12 They made a mansion for their Father, deftly provided him a great and glorious dwelling; 13 What time the ample chalice had impelled him, swift waxing, vast, to pierce the earth and heaven,− 14 I crave thy powers, I crave thy mighty friendship: full many a team goes to the Vrtra−slayer. 15 He, having found great, splendid, rich dominion, sent life and motion to his friends and lovers. 16 Vast, the House−Friend, he set the waters flowing, all−lucid, widely spread, that move together. 17 To thee proceed the dark, the treasure−holders, both of them sanctified by Surya's bounty. 18 Be Lord of joyous songs, O Vrtra−slayer, Bull dear to all, who gives the power of living. 19 Like Angiras I honour him with worship, and renovate old song for him the Ancient. 20 Far forth are spread the purifying waters convey thou us across them unto safety.

2 Most wise is he who, forcing doors of Panis, brought the bright Sun to us who feedeth many. 3 Wise, ne.'er deceived, uncircumscribed, refulgent, our gracious guest, a Friend with good attendants, 4 Seeking our gatherings, he, your Jatavedas, hath shone adorable through human ages, 5 Go on thy message to the Gods, and fail not, O Agni, with their band who pray and worship. 6 Vasistha, when enkindling thee, O Agni, hath slain jarutha. Give us wealth in plenty.

2 So hast thou mounted up before us, Surya, through these our praises, with fleet dappled horses. 3 May holy Agni, Varuna, and Mitra send down their riches upon us in thousands. 4 O undivided Heaven and Earth, preserve us, us, Lofty Ones! your nobIy−born descendants. 5 Stretch forth your arms and let our lives be lengthened: with fatness dew the pastures of our cattle. 6 Now Mitra, Varuna, Aryaman vouchsafe us freedom and room, for us and for our children.

2 Thou hast a car more swift than thought, O Indra; thercon come hither, come to drink the Soma. 3 Deck out thy body with the fairest colours, with golden splendour of the Sun adorn it. 4 O thou whose grandeur in thy festive transports not even these two great worlds have comprehended. 5 Pressed for thy joyous banquet is the Soma, Soma whereof thou, Indra, ever drinking, 6 Found from of old is this thy cup, O Indra: Satakratu, drink therefrom the Soma. 7 From many a side with proffered entertainment the folk are calling thee, O Mighty Indra. 8 I will declare thy deeds of old, O Indra, the mighty acts which thou hast first accomplished. 9 Lord of the hosts, amid our bands be seated: they call thee greatest Sage among the sages. 10 Aim of our eyes be thou, for we implore thee, O Maghavan, Friend of friends and Lord of treasures. 2 This majesty of his Visnu extols and lauds, making the stalCthat gives the meath flow forth with inight. 3 When, bearing warlike weapons, fain to win thee praise, thou mettest Vrtra, yea, the Dragon, for the fig 4 Soon as he sprang to life he forced asun. der hosts: forward the Hero looked to manly deed and war. 5 Indra hath evermore possessed surpassing power: he forced, far from each other, heaven and earth apart. 6 Then to the mighty powers of Indra, to his wrath, his the fierce Stormer, loud of voice, they came with 7 Even in the first of those heroic acts which they who strove together came with might to execute, 8 Then all the Gods extolled, with eloquence inspired by draughts of Soma juice, thy deeds of manly mig 9 Proclaim his many friendships, met with friendship, made with singers, with the skilful and the eloquent 10 Give riches manifold with noble horses, to be remembered while my songs address thee.

1 Now Morning with her earliest light shines forth, dear Daughter of the Sky: 2 Sons of the Sea, mighty to save discoverers of riches, ye 3 Your giant coursers hasten on over the region all in flames, − 4 He, liberal, lover of the flood, Lord of the House, the vigilant, 5 Ye have regard unto our hymns, Nasatyas, thinking of our words: 6 Vouchsafe to us, O Asvin Pair, such strength as, with attendant light, 7 Come in the ship of these our hymns to bear you to the hither shore 8 The heaven's wide vessel is your own on the flood's shore your chariot waits 9 Kanvas, the drops are in the heaven; the wealth is at the waters' place: 10 Light came to lighten up the branch, the Sun appeared as it were gold: 11 The path of sacrifice was made to travel to the farther goal: 12 The singer of their praise awaits whatever grace the Asvins give, 13 Ye dwellers with Vivasvan come, auspicious, as to Manu erst; 14 O circumambient Asvins, Dawn follows the brightness of your way: 15 Drink ye of our libations, grant protection, O ye Asvins Twain, 1 ASVINS, for you who strengthen Law this sweetest Soma hath been shed. 2 Come, O ye Asvins, mounted on your triple car three−seated, beautiful of form 3 O Asvins, ye who strengthen Law, drink ye this sweetest Soma juice. 4 Omniscient Asvins, on the thrice−heaped grass bedew with the sweet juice the sacrifice. 5 O Asvins, with those aids wherewith ye guarded Kanva carefully, 6 O Mighty Ones, ye gave Sudas abundant food, brought on your treasure−laden car; 7 Nasatyas, whether ye be far away or close to Turvasa, 8 So let your coursers, ornaments of sacrifice, bring you to our libations here. 9 Come, O Nasatyas, on your car decked with a sunbright canopy, 10 With lauds and songs of praise we call them down to us, that they, most rich, may succour us;

2 We call that perfecter of worship by the path or sacrifice; with reverence rich in offerings, with worship 3 In ordered course forthwith he traverses the earth, swift−swallowing, bellowing Steer, bearing the genia 4 That Agni, wise High−Priest, in every house takes thought for sacrifice and holy service, yea, takes 5 When through his power and in his strong prevailing flames the Maruts' gladdening boons mingle with 6 Vast, universal, good he was made messenger; the speeder with his right hand hath not loosed his hold, 7 That Agni hath been set most kind in camp of men, in sacrifice like a Lord victorious, like a dear Lord i 8 Agni the Priest they supplicate to grant them wealth: him, dear, most thoughtful, have they made their 2 Hear, Indra, thou whom men in every fight must call to show thy strength, for cry of battle with the men 3 Thou, Mighty, pourest forth the hide that holds the rain, thou keepest far away, Hero, the wicked man, t 4 We. wish our Indra here that he may further you, the Friend, beloved of all, the very strong ally, in wars 5 Bow down the overweening pride of every foe with succour like to kindling−wood in fiercest flame, wit 6 This may I utter to the present Soma−drop, which, meet to be invoked, with power, awakes the prayer, 7 By thoughtful invocation this may we obtain, obtain great wealth, O Wealthy One, with Hero sons, weal 8 On, for your good and ours, come Indra with the aid of his own lordliness to drive the wicked hence, to 9 With riches in abundance, Indra, come to us, come by an unobstructed path, come by a path from demo 10 Thou art our own, O Indra, with victorious wealth: let might accompany thee, the Strong, to give us ai 11 Save us from injury, thou who art well extolled: ever the warder−off art thou of wicked ones, even as a

2 For this his mighty deed is Visnu lauded, like some wild beast, dread, prowling, mountain−roaming; 3 Let the hymn lift itself as strength to Visnu, the Bull far−striding, dwelling on the mountains, 4 Him whose three places that are filled with sweetness, imperishable, joy as it may list them, 5 May I attain to that his well−loved mansion where men devoted to the Gods are happy. 6 Fain would we go unto your dwelling−places where there are many−horned and nimble oxen,

2 Men have obtained his strength by sacrificing, and ever urged him, on to hero valour. 3 Associate with him, as teams of horses, help, manly might, and vigour follow Indra. 4 Lauded by us, let flow the spring, O Indra, of excellent and brightly−shining riches. 5 Hear what thou mayst hear, thou who, fain for worship, as heaven girds earth, guardest thy servant's 2 Forth to the vat the brown drops flow for service, and purified proceed directly forward. May I

1 INDRA and Agni I invoke fain are we for their song of praise 2 Praise ye, O men, and glorify Indra−Agni in the holy rites: 3 Indra and Agni we invite, the Soma−drinkers, for the fame 4 Strong Gods, we bid them come to this libation that stands ready here: 5 Indra and Agni, mighty Lords of our assembly, crush the fiends: 6 Watch ye, through this your truthfulness, there in the place of spacious view 1 WAKEN the Asvin Pair who yoke their car at early morn: may they 2 We call the Asvins Twain, the Gods borne in a noble car, the best 3 Dropping with honey is your whip, Asvins, and full of pleasantness 4 As ye go thither in your car, not far, O Asvins, is the home 5 For my protection I invoke the golden−handed Savitar. 6 That he may send us succour, praise the Waters' Offspring Savitar: 7 We call on him, distributer of wondrous bounty and of wealth, 8 Come hither, friends, and seat yourselves Savitar, to be praised by us, 9 O Agni, hither bring to us the willing Spouses of the Gods, 10 Most youthful Agni, hither bring their Spouses, Hotra, Bharati, 11 Spouses of Heroes, Goddesses, with whole wings may they come to us 12 Indrani, Varunani, and Agnayi hither I invite, 13 May Heaven and Earth, the Mighty Pair, bedew for us our sacrifice, 14 Their water rich with fatness, there in the Gandharva's steadfast place, 15 Thornless be thou, O Earth, spread wide before us for a dwelling−place: 16 The Gods be gracious unto us even from the place whence Visnu strode 17 Through all this world strode Visnu; thrice his foot he planted, and the whole 18 Visnu, the Guardian, he whom none deceiveth, made three steps; thenceforth 19 Look ye on Visnu's works, whereby the Friend of Indra, close−allied, 20 The princes evermore behold that loftiest place where Visnu is, 21 This, Vishnu's station most sublime, the singers, ever vigilant,

3 How dost thou decorate our hymn, O Agni? What power dost thou exert when thou art lauded? 4 Far famed is this the Bharata's own Agni he shineth like the Sun with lofty splendour. 5 Full many oblations are in thee collected: with all thine aspects thou hast waxen gracious. 6 Be this my song, that winneth countless treasure, engendered with redoubled force for Agni, 7 We, the Vasisthas, now implore thee, Agni, O Son of Strength, the Lord of wealth and riches.

2 O thou who castest forth the stones crushing the sorceresses' heads, 3 Do thou, O Maghavan, beat off these sorceresses' daring strength. 4 Of whom thou hast ere now destroyed thrice−fifty with thy fierce attacks. 5 O Indra, crush and bray to bits the fearful fiery−weaponed fiend: 6 Tear down the mighty ones. O Indra, hear thou us. For heaven hath glowed like earth in fear, O 7 The pourer of libations gains the home of wealth, pouring his gift conciliates hostilities, yea, the hostiliti

2 Not far for thee are mid−air's loftiest regions: start hither, Lord of Bays, with thy Bay Horses. 3 Fair cheeks hath Indra, Maghavan, the Victor, Lord of a great host, Stormer, strong in action. 4 For, overthrowing what hath ne'er been shaken, thou goest forth alone destroying Vrtras. 5 Yea, Much−invoked! in safety through thy glories alone thou speakest truth as Vrtra's slayer. 6 Forthwith thy Bay steeds down the steep, O Indra, forth, crushing foemen, go thy bolt of thunder! 7 The man to whom thou givest as Provider enjoys domestic plenty undivided. 8 Thou, Indra, Much−invoked! didst crush to pieces Kunaru handless fiend who dwelt with Danu. 9 Thou hast established in her seat, O Indra, the level earth, vast, vigorous, unbounded. 10 He who withheld the kine, in silence I yielded in fear before thy blow, O Indra. 11 Indra alone filled full the earth and heaven, the Pair who meet together, rich in treasures. 12 Surya transgresses not the ordered limits set daily by the Lord of Tawny Coursers. 13 Men gladly in the course of night would look on the broad bright front of the refulgent Morning; 14 A mighty splendour rests upon her bosom: bearing ripe milk the Cow, unripe, advances. 15 Barring the way they come. Be firm, O Indra; aid friends to sacrifice and him who singeth. 16 A cry is beard from enemies most near us: against them send thy fiercest−flaming weapon. 17 Root up the race of Raksasas, O Indra rend it in front and crush it in the middle. 18 When borne by strong Steeds for our weal, O Leader, thou seatest thee at many noble viands. 19 Bestow on us resplendent wealth. O Indra let us enjoy thine overflow of bounty. 20 With kine and horses satisfy this longing with very splendid bounty skill extend it. 21 Lord of the kine, burst the kine's stable open: cows shall be ours, and strength that wins the booty. 22 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in this fight where spoil is gathered,

2 She comes in front, fair, rousing up the people, making the pathways easy to be travelled. 3 She, harnessing her car with purple oxen. injuring none, hath brought perpetual riches. 4 With changing tints she gleams in double splendour while from the eastward she displays her body. 5 As conscious that her limbs are bright with bathing, she stands, as 'twere, erect that we may see her. 6 The Daughter of the Sky, like some chaste woman, bends, opposite to men, her forehead downward.

2 They who like kindled flames of fire are glowing,. the Maruts, twice and thrice have waxen mighty. 3 They who are Sons of the rain−pouring Rudra, whom the long−lasting One had power to foster: 4 They shrink not from the birth; in this same manner still resting there they purge away reproaches. 5 Even those who bear the brave bold name of Maruts, whom not the active quickly wins for milking. 6 When, strong in strength and armed with potent weapons, they had united wellformed earth and heaven, 7 No team of goats shall draw your car, O Maruts, no horse no charioteer be he who drives it. 8 None may obstruct, none overtake, O Maruts, him whom ye succour in the strife of battle 9 Bring a bright hymn to praise the band of Maruts, the Singers, rapid, strong in native vigour, 10 Bright like the flashing flames of sacrifices, like tongues of fire impetuous in their onset, 11 That swelling band I call with invocation, the brood of Rudra, armed with glittering lances. 2 To you Two Gods is this my thought extended, turned to the sacred grass with loving homage. 3 Come hither, Mitra−Varuna, invited with eulogies and loving adoration, 4 Whom, of pure origin, like two strong horses, Aditi bore as babes in proper season, 5 As all the Gods in their great joy and gladness gave you with one accord your high dominion, 6 So, through the days maintaining princely power. ye prop the height as 'twere from loftiest heaven. 7 Take the strong drink, to quaff till ye are sated, when he and his attendants fill the chamber. 8 So with your tongue come ever, when your envoy, faithful and very wise, attends our worship. 9 When, Mitra−Varuna, they strive against you and break tlie friendly laws ye have established, 10 When singers in their song uplift their voices, some chant the Nivid texts with steady purpose. 11 O Mitra−Varuna, may your large bounty come to us hither, near to this our dwelling,

2 Let Indra drink, O Soma, of thy juice for wisdom, and all Deities for strength. 3 So flow thou on as bright celestial juice, flow to the vast, immortal dwelling−place. 4 Flow onward, Soma, as a mighty sea, as Father of the Gods to every form. 5 Flow on, O Soma, radiant for the Gods and Heaven and Earth and bless our progeny. 6 Thou, bright Juice, art Sustainer of the sky: flow, mighty, in accordance with true Law. 7 Soma, flow splendid with thy copious stream through the great fleece as in the olden time. 8 Bom, led by men, joyous, and purified, let the Light−finder make all blessings flow: 9 Indu, while cleansed, keeping the people safe, shall give us all possessions for our own. 10 Flow on for wisdom, Soma, and for power, as a strong courser bathed, to win the prize. 11 The pressers purify this juice of thine, the Soma, for delight, and lofty fame 12 They deck the Gold−hued Infant, newlyborn, even Soma, Indu, in the sieve for Gods. 13 Fair Indu hath flowed on for rapturous joy, Sage for good fortune in the waters' lap. 14 He bears the beauteous name of Indra, that wherewith he overcame all demon foes. 15 All Deities are wont to drink of him, pressed by the men and blent with milk and curds. 16 He hath flowed forth with thousand streams effused, flowed ihsough the filter and the sheep's long wo 17 With endless genial flow the Strong hath run, purified by the waters, blent with milk. 18 Pressed out with stones, directed by the men, go fortli, O Soma, into Indra's throat. 19 The mighty Soma with a thousand streams is poured to Indra through the cleansing sieve. 20 Indu they balm with pleasant milky juice for Indra, for the Steer, for his delight. 21 Lightly, for sheen, they cleanse thee for the Gods, gold−coloured, wearing water as thy robe. 22 Indu to Indra streams, yea, downward streams, Strong, flowing to the floods, and mingling −there.

1 THIS is that Agni whence the longing Indra took the pressed Soma deep within his body. 2 That light of thine in heaven and earth, O Agni, in plants, O Holy One, and in the waters, 3 O Agni, to the sea of heaven thou goest: thou hast called hither Gods beheld in spirit. 4 Let fires that dwell in mist, combined with those that have their home in floods, 5 Agni, as holy food to thine invoker give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.

2 Who will be gracious? Who will come most uickly of all the Gods? Who will 3 So many days do ye come swiftly hither, as Indra to give help in stress of battle. 4 What is the prayer that we should bring you, Asvins, whereby ye come to us when invocated? 5 In the wide space your chariot reacheth heaven, what time it turneth hither from the ocean. 6 Let Sindhu with his wave bedew your horses: in fiery glow have the red birds come hither.

2 Verily no one knoweth whence they sprang: they, and they only, know each other's birth. 3 They strew each other with their blasts, these Hawks: they strove together, roaring like the wind. 4 A sage was he who knew these mysteries, what in her udder mighty Prsni bore. 5 Ever victorious, through the Maruts, be this band of Heroes, nursing manly strength, 6 Most bright in splendour, flectest on their way, close−knit to glory, strong with varied power. 7 Yea, mighty is your power and firm your strength: so, potent, with the Maruts, be the band. 8 Bright is your spirit, wrathful are your minds: your bold troop's minstrel is like one inspired. 9 Ever avert your blazing shaft from us, and let not your displeasure reach us here 10 Your dear names, conquering Maruts, we invoke, calling aloud till we are satisfied. 11 Well−armed, impetuous in their haste, they deck themselves, their forms, with oblations: to you, the pu 12 Pure, Maruts, pure yourselves, are your oblations: to you, the pure, pure sacrifice I offer. 13 Your rings, O Maruts, rest upon your shoulders, and chains of gold are twined upon your bosoms. 14 Wide in the depth of air spread forth your glories, far, most adorable, ye bear your titles. 15 If, Maruts, ye regard the praise recited here at this mighty singer invocation, 16 The Maruts, fleet as coursers, while they deck them like youths spectators of a festal meeting, 17 So may the Maruts help us and be gracious, bringing free room to lovely Earth and Heaven. 18 The priest, when seated, loudly calls you, Maruts, praising in song your universal bounty. 19 These Maruts bring the swift man to a stand−still, and strength with mightier strength they break and 20 These Maruts rouse even the poor and needy: the Vasus love him as an active champion. 21 Never, O Maruts, may we lose your bounty, nor, car−borne Lords! be hitidmost when ye deal it. 22 What time the men in fury rush together for running streams, for pastures, and for houses.

2 By Soma are the Adityas strong, by Soma mighty is the earth. 3 One thinks, when they have brayed the plant, that he hath drunk the Soma's juice; 4 Soma, secured by sheltering rules, guarded by hymns in Brhati, 5 When they begin to drink thee then, O God, thou swellest out again. 6 Raibhi was her dear bridal friend, and Narasamsi led her home. 7 Thought was the pillow of her couch, sight was the unguent for her eyes: 8 Hymns were the cross−bars of the pole, Kurira−metre decked the car: 9 Soma was he who wooed the maid: the groomsmen were both Asvins, when 10 Her spirit was the bridal car; the covering thereof was heaven: 11 Thy Steers were steady, kept in place by holy verse and Sama−hymn: 12 Clean, as thou wentest, were thy wheels wind, was the axle fastened there. 13 The bridal pomp of Surya, which Savitar started, moved along. 14 When on your three−wheeled chariot, O Asvins, ye came as wooers unto Surya's bridal, 15 O ye Two Lords of lustre, then when ye to Surya's wooing came, 16 The Brahmans, by their seasons, know, O Surya, those two wheels of thine: 17 To Surya and the Deities, to Mitra and to Varuna. 18 By their own power these Twain in close succession move; 19 He, born afresh, is new and new for ever ensign of days he goes before the Mornings 20 Mount this, all−shaped, gold−hued, with strong wheels, fashioned of Kimsuka and Salmali, light−rolli 21 Rise up from hence: this maiden hath a husband. I laud Visvavasu with hymns and homage. 22 Rise up from hence, Visvavasu: with reverence we worship thee. 23 Straight in direction be the path:s, and thornless, whereon our fellows travel to the wooing. 24 Now from the noose of Varuna I free thee, wherewith Most Blessed Savitar hath bound thee. 25 Hence, and not thence, I send these free. I make thee softly fettered there. 26 Let Pusan take thy hand and hence conduct thee; may the two Asvins on their car transport thee.

1 O SOMA DRINKER, ever true, utterly hopeless though we be, 2 O Lord of Strength, whose jaws are strong, great deeds are thine, the powerful: 3 Lull thou asleep, to wake no more, the pair who on each other look 4 Hero, let hostile spirits sleep, and every gentler genius wake: 5 Destroy this ass, O Indra, who in tones discordant brays to thee: 6 Far distant on the forest fall the tempest in a circling course! 7 Slay each reviler, and destroy him who in secret injures us:

2 This might of theirs hath no one comprehended. True is the crushing word the sage hath uttered, 3 The Footless Maid precedeth footed creatures. Who marketh, Mitra−Varuna, this your doing? 4 We look on him the darling of the Maidens, always advancing, never falling downward, 5 Unbridled Courser, horn but not of horses, neighing he flieth on with back uplifted. 6 May the milch−kine who favour Mamateya prosper in this world him who loves devotion. 7 Gods, Mitra−Varuna, with love and worship, let me make you delight in this oblation.

2 When, Asvins, ye equip your very mighty car, bedew, ye Twain, our power with honey and with oil. 3 Nigh to us come the Asvins' lauded three−wheeled car, the car laden with meath and drawn by fleet−foo 4 Bring hither nourishment for us, ye Asvins Twain; sprinkle us with your whip that drops with honey−de 5 Ye store the germ of life in female creatures, ye lay it up within all living beings. 6 Leeches are ye with medicines to heal us, and charioteers are ye with skill in driving.

29 My praises when the Sun hath risen, my praises at the time of noon, 30 Praise yea, praise him. Of princes these are the most liberal of their gifts, 31 When to the car, by faith, I yoked the horses longing for the way− 32 May he who gave me two brown steeds together with their cloths of gold, 33 Playoga's son Asanga, by ten thousand, O Agni, hath surpassed the rest in giving. 34 What time her husband's perfect restoration to his lost strength and manhood was apparent,

2 Thou sentest forth productive powers, clavest the hills, thou dravest forth the kine, thou drankest pleasa 3 In the mid−way of heaven the Sun unyoked his car: the Arya found a match to meet his Dam foe. 4 He boldly cast down forts which none had e'er assailed: unwearied he destroycd the godless 5 Armed with resistless weapons, with vast power to cleave, the Vrtra−slayer whets his darts and deals for 6 These are thy famous exploits, only thine, when thou alone hast left the other reft of sacrifice.

2 The heavenly Waters come not nigh the priestly bowl: they but look down and see how far mid−air is 3 Praiseworthy blessing hast thou laid upon the pair who with uplifted ladle serve thee, man and wife. 4 First the Angirases won themselves vital power, whose fires were kindled through good deeds and sacri 5 Atharvan first by sacrifices laid the paths then, guardian of the Law, sprang up the loving Sun. 6 When sacred grass is trimmed to aid the auspicious work, or the hymn makes its voice of praise sound t

1 WHY hath the Best, why hath the Youngest come to us? Upon what embassy comes he? What have we 2 The chalice that is single make ye into four: thus have the Gods commanded; therefore am I come. 3 What to the envoy Agni in reply ye spake, A courser must be made, a chariot fashioned here, 4 When thus, O Rbhus, ye had done ye questioned thus, Whither went he who came to us a messenger? 5 As Tvastar thus had spoken, Let us slay these men who have reviled the chalice, drinking−cup of Gods, 6 Indra hath yoked his Bays, the Asvins' car is horsed, Brhaspati hath brought the Cow of every hue. 7 Ye by your wisdom brought a cow from out a hide; unto that ancient Pair ye gave again their youth. 8 Drink ye this water, were the words ye spake to them; or drink ye this, the rinsing of the Munja−grass. 9 Most excellent are waters, thus said one of you; most excellent is Agni, thus another said. 10 One downward to the water drives the crippled cow, another trims the flesh brought on the carving−bo 11 On the high places ye have made the grass for man, and water in the valleys, by your skill, O Men. 12 As, compassing them round, ye glided through the worlds, where had the venerable Parents their abod 13 When ye had slept your fill, ye Rbhus, thus ye asked, O thou whom naught may hide, who now hath 14 The Maruts move in heaven, on earth this Agni; through the mid−firmament the Wind approaches. 2 What time they bear before the Courser, covered with trappings and with wealth, the grasped oblation, 3 Dear. to all Gods, this goat, the share of Pusan, is first led forward with the vigorous Courser, 4 When thrice the men lead round the Steed, in order, who goeth to the Gods as meet oblation, 5 Invoker, ministering priest, atoner, fire−kindler Soma−presser, sage, reciter, 6 The hewers of the post and those who carry it, and those who carve the knob to deck the Horse's stake; 7 Forth, for the regions of the Gods, the Charger with his smooth back is come my prayer attends him.

2 We pray thee, thou who droppest oil, bright−rayed! who lookest on the Sun, 3 We have enkindled thee, O Sage, bright caller of the Gods to feast. 4 O Agni, come with all the Gods, come to our sacrificial gift: 5 Bring, Agni, to the worshipper who pours the juice, heroic strength: 6 Victor of thousands, Agni, thou, enkindled, cherishest the laws, 7 Set Agni Jatavedas down, the bearer of our sacred gifts, 8 Duly proceed our sacrifice, comprising all the Gods, to−day: 9 So may the Maruts sit thereon, the Asvins, Mitra, Varuna:

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 For here, like flies on honey, these who pray to thee sit by the juice that they have poured. 3 Longing for wealth I call on him, the Thunderer with the strong right hand, 4 These Soma juices, mixed with curd, have been expressed for Indra here. 5 May he whose ear is open hear us. He is asked for wealth: will he despise our prayer? 6 The hero never checked by men hath gained his strength through Indra, he 7 When thou dost drive the fighting men together be, thou Mighty One, the mighty's shield. 8 For Indra, Soma−drinker, armed with thunder, press the Soma juice. 9 Grudge not, ye Soma pourers; stir you, pay the rites, for wealth, to the great Conqueror. 10 No one hath overturned or stayed the car of him who freely gives. 11 Indra, that man when fighting shall obtain the spoil, whose strong defender thou wilt be. 12 His portion is exceeding great like a victorious soldier's spoil. 13 Make for the Holy Gods a hymn that is not mean, but well−arranged and fair of form. 14 Indra, what mortal will attack the man who hath his wealth in thee? 15 In battles with the foe urge on our mighty ones who give the treasures dear to thee, 16 Thine, Indra, is the lowest wealth, thou cherishest the mid−most wealth, 17 Thou art renowned as giving wealth to every one in all the battles that are fought. 18 If I, O Indra, were the Lord of riches ample as thine own, 19 Each day would I enrich the man who sang my praise, in whatsoever place he were. 20 With Plenty for his true ally the active man will gain the spoil. 21 A moral wins no riches by unworthy praise: wealth comes not to the niggard churl. 22 Like kine unmilked we call aloud, Hero, to thee, and sing thy praise, 23 None other like to thee, of earth or of the heavens, hath been or ever will be born. 24 Bring, Indra, the Victorious Ones; bring, elder thou, the younger host. 25 Drive thou away our enemies, O Maghavan: make riches easy to be won. 26 O Indra, give us wisdom as a sire gives wisdom to his sons.

2 As such we honour you, Mitra and Varuna, with hasty zeal, most blest, you who sustain the folk. 3 And when we seek to win your love and friendship, we.who have precious wealth in our possession, 4 That other, Asura! too was born of Heaven. thou art, O Varuna, the King of all men. 6 Your Mother Aditi, ye wise, was purified with water even as earth is purified from heaven. 7 Ye Twain have seated you as Lords of Wealth, as one who mounts a car to him who sits upon the pole,