Rig Veda on Prayer

2 Light rolls your easy chariot faring earthward, what time, for food, ye, full of wisdom, mount it. 3 Ascend your lightly rolling car, approaching the worshipper who turns him to his duties,− 4 Let not the wolf, let not the she−wolf harm you. Forsake me not, nor pass me by or others. 5 Gotama, Purumilha, Atri bringing oblations all invoke you for protection. 6 We have passed o'er the limit of this darkness: our praise hath been bestowed on you, O Asvins. 2 With us, ye Mighty, let yourselves be joyful, glad in our stream of Soma slay the niggards. 3 Nasatyas, Pusans, ye as Gods for glory arranged and set in order Surya's bridal. 4 Your grace be with us, ye who love sweet juices: further the hymn sung by the poet Mana, 5 This praise was made, O liberal Lords, O Asvins, for you with fair adornment by the Manas. 6 We have passed o'er the limit of this darkness: our praise hath been'bestowed on you, O Asvins.

2 To him the Bounteous say the laud, and let us glorify, as men May do, the Giver of true gifts. 3 O Indra, Lord of boundless might, for us thou winnest strength and kine, 4 Faithful to thee we loudly sing, heroic Indra, songs to thee: Mark, O Good Lord, this act of ours. 5 Give us not up to man's reproach, to foeman's hateful calumny: In thee alone is all my strength. 6 Thou art mine ample coat of mail, my Champion, Vrtra−Slayer, thou: 7 Yea, great art thou whose conquering might two independent Powers confess. 8 So let the voice surround thee, which attends the Maruts on their way, 9 Let the ascending drops attain to thee, the Wondrous God, in heaven: 10 Bring to the Wise, the Great, who waxeth mighty, your offerings, and make ready your devotion; 11 For Indra, the sublime, the far−pervading, have singers generated prayer and praises: 12 The choirs have stablished Indra King for ever, for victory, him whose anger is resistless:

2 Agni I laud, the Sage inspired, crowner of sacrifice through song, 3 O Agni, if we might obtain control of thee the potent God, 4 Kindled at sacrifices he is Agni, hallower, meet for praise, 5 Immortal Agni, shining far, enrobed with oil, well worshipped, bears 6 The priests with ladles lifted up, worshipping here with holy thought, 7 Immortal, Sacrificer, God, with wondrous power he leads the way, 8 Strong, he is set on deeds ofstrength. In sacrifices led in front, 9 Excellent, he was made by thought. The Germ of beings have I gained, 10 Thee have I stablished, Excellent, O strengthened by the sage's prayer, 11 Agni, the swift and active One, singers, at time of sacrifice, 12 Agni the Son of Strength who shines up to the heaven in solemn rites, 13 Meet to be lauded and adored, showing in beauty through the dark, 14 Agni is kindled as a bull, like a horsebearer of the Gods: 15 Thee will we kindle as a bull, we who are Bulls ourselves, O Bull.

2 Looking on man, O Varuna and Mitra, this Sun ascendeth up by both the pathways, 3 He from their home hath yoked the Seven gold Coursers who, dropping oil and fatness, carry Surya. 4 Your coursers rich in store of sweets have mounted: to the bright ocean Surya hath ascended, 5 For these, even Aryaman, Varuna and Mitra, are the chastisers of all guile and falsehood. 6 These, Mitra, Varuna whom none deceiveth, with great power quicken even the fool to wisdom, 7 They ever vigilant, with eyes that close not, caring for heaven and earth, lead on the thoughtless. 8 When Aditi and Varuna and Mitra, like guardians, give Sudas their friendly shelter, 9 May he with ofierings purify the altar from any stains of Varuna's reviler. 10 Hid from our eyes is their resplendent meeting: by their mysterious might they hold dominion. 11 He who wins favour for his prayer by worship, that he may gain him strength and highest riches, 12 This priestly task, Gods! Varuna and Mitra! hath been performed for you at sacrifices.

2 Firm−seated is thy car, thy Steeds are docile; thy hand, O King, holds, firmly grasped, the thunder. 3 Let strong and mighty Steeds who bear this Mighty Indra, the Lord of men, whose arm wields thunder, 4 So like a Bull thou rushest to the Lord who loves the trough, the Sage, the prop of vigour, in the vat, 5 May precious treasures come to us−so will I pray. Come to the votary's gift offered with beauteous laud. 6 Far went our earlist invocation of the Gods, and won us glories that can never be surpassed. 7 So be the others, evil−hearted, far away, whose horses, difficult to harness, have been yoked. 8 He firmly fixed the plains and mountains as they shook. Dyaus thundered forth and made the air's 9 I bear this deftly−fashioned goad of thine, wherewith thou, Maghavan, shalt break the strikers with the 10 O Much−invoked, may we subdue all famine and evil want with store of grain and cattle. 11 Brhaspati protect us from the rearward, and from above, and from below, from sinners.

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,

Quasi dex 9 'The fire, burning the people, does not approach quickly (by day): the naked (Rakasas approach) not A 2 Agni, concurring in the prayer, drive off the eater of the flesh, 3 That which destroys the sinking germ, the settled, moving embryo, 4 That which divides thy legs that it may lie between the married pair, 5 What rests by thee in borrowed form of brother, lover, or of lord, 6 That which through sleep or darkness hath deceived thee and lies down by thee, 2 From the neck−tendons and the neck, from the breast−bones and from the spine, 3 From viscera and all within, forth from the rectum, from the heart, 4 From thighs, from knee−caps, and from heels, and from the forepart of the feet, 5 From what is voided from within, and from thy hair, and from they nails, 6 From every member, every hair, disease that comes in every joint, 2 O Sinivali, set the germ, set thou the germ, Sarasvati: 3 That which the Asvins Twain rub forth with the attrition−sticks of g

2 What child is this thou carriest as handmaid, O Youthful One? The Consort−Queen hath bome him. 3 I saw him from afar gold−toothed, bright−coloured, hurling his weapons from his habitation, 4 I saw him moving from the place he dwells in, even as with a herd, brilliantly shining. 5 Who separate my young bull from the cattle, they whose protector was in truth no stranger? 6 Mid mortal men godless have secreted the King of all who live, home of the people. 7 Thou from the stake didst loose e'en Sunahsepa bound for a thousand; for he prayed with fervour. 8 Thou hast sped from me, Agni, in thine anger: this the protector of Gods' Laws hath told me. 9 Agni shines far and wide with lofty splendour, and by his greatness makes all things apparent. 10 Loud in the heaven above be Agni's roarings with keen−edged weapons to destroy the demons. 11 As a skilled craftsman makes a car, a singer I, Mighty One! this hymn for thee have fashioned. 12 May he, the strong−necked Steer, waxing in vigour, gather the foeman's wealth with none to check hi

2 So battle now, O Indra and thou, Agni, for cows and waters, sunlight, stolen Mornings. 3 With Vrtra−slaying might, Indra and Agni, come, drawn by homage, O ye Vrtra−slayers. 4 I call the Twain whose deeds of old have all been famed in ancient days 5 The Strong, the scatterers of the foe, Indra and Agni, we invoke; 6 They slay our Arya foes, these Lords of heroes, slay our Dasyu foes 7 Indra and Agni, these our songs of praise have sounded forth to you: 8 Come, Indra−Agni, with those teams, desired of many, which ye have, 9 With those to this libation poured, ye Heroes, Indra−Agni, come: 10 Glorify him who compasses all forests with his glowing flame, 11 He who gains Indra's bliss with fire enkindled finds an easy way 12 Give us fleet coursers to convey Indra and Agni, and bestow 13 Indra and Agni, I will call you hither and make you joyful with the gifts I offer. 14 Come unto us with riches, come with wealth in horses and in kine. 15 Indra and Agni, hear his call who worships. with libations poured.

2 Thinking aright, praising eternal Order, the sons of Dyaus the Asura, those heroes, 3 Girt by his friends who cried with swanlike voices, bursting the stony barriers of the prison, 4 Apart from one, away from two above him, he drave the kine that stood in bonds of falsehood. 5 When he had cleft the lairs and western castle, he cut off three from him who held the waters. 6 As with a hand, so with his roaring Indra cleft Vala through, the guardian of the cattle. 7 He with bright faithful Friends, winners of booty, hath rent the milker of the cows asunder. 8 They, longing for the kine, with faithful spirit incited with their hymns the Lord of cattle. 9 In our assembly with auspicious praises exalting him who roareth like a lion, 10 When he had won him every sort of booty and gone to heaven and its most lofty mansions, 11 Fulfil the prayer that begs for vital vigour: aid in your wonted manner even the humble. 12 Indra with mighty strength cleft asunder the head of Arbuda the watery monster,

2 Unto the great bring ye great adoration, a chant with praise to him exceeding mighty, 3 When Indra and the Angirases desired it, Sarama found provision for her offipring. 4 Mid shout, loud shout, and roar, with the Navagvas, seven singers, hast thou, heavenly, rent the mountai 5 Praised by Angirases, thou, foe−destroyer, hast, with the Dawn, Sun, rays, dispellcd the darkness. 6 This is the deed most worthy of all honour, the fairest marvel of the Wonder−Worker, 7 Unwearied, won with lauding hymns, he parted of old the ancient Pair, united ever. 8 Still born afresh, young Dames, each in her manner, unlike in hue, the Pair in alternation 9 Rich in good actions, skilled in operation, the Son with might maintains his perfect friendship. 10 Their paths, of old connected, rest uninjured; they with great might preserve the immortal statutes. 11 Thoughts ancient, seeking wealth, with adoration, with newest lauds have sped to thee, O Mighty. 12 Strong God, the riches which thy hands have holden from days of old have perished not nor wasted. 13 O mighty Indra, Gotama's son Nodhas hath fashioned this new prayer to thee Eternal,

2 I praise that Indra, known to all men, honoured with songs, extolled with hymns at sacrifices, 3 He hath made pathways, with the Sun to aid him, throughout the darkness that extended pathless. 4 And he who did these things, where is that Indra? among what tribes? what people doth he visit? 5 Yea, here were they who, born of old, have served thee, thy friends of ancient time, thou active Worker. 6 Inquiring after him, thy later servants, Indra, have gained thy former old traditions. 7 The demon's strength is gathered fast against thee: great as that strength hath grown, go forth to meet it. 8 Hear, too, the prayer of this thy present beadsman, O Indra, Hero, cherishing the singer. 9 Bring to our help this day, for our protection, Varuna, Mitra, Indra, and the Maruts, 10 The singers here exalt with hymns and praises thee who art very Mighty and Most Holy. 11 Now to my words come quickly thou who knowest, O Son of Strength, with all who claim our worship 12 On good and evil ways be thou our Leader, thou who art known to all as Path−preparer.

2 Indra, thou art our own with thy protection, a guardian near to men who love thee truly, 3 May Indra, called with solemn invocations. the young, the Friend, be men's auspicious keeper, 4 With laud and song let me extol that Indra in whom of old men prospered and were mighty. 5 He, Indra whom the Angirases' praise delighted, strengthened their prayer and made their goings prospe 6 He verily, the God, the glorious Indra, hath raised him up for man, best Wonder−Worker. 7 Indra theVrtra−slayer, Fort−destroyer, scattered the Dasa hosts who dwelt in darkness. 8 To him in might the Gods have ever yielded, to Indra in the tumult of thebattle. 9 Now may that wealthy Cow of thine, O Indra, give in return a boon to him who lauds thee. 3 Still Victor, loved by mortals, ruler over men, o'erthrower, warrior, he hath waxen as he would; 4 The strong who never yields, who slew the furious fiend, the deep, the vast, of wisdom unattainable; 5 By sacrifice the yearning sages sending forth their songs found furtherance from him who speeds the flo 6 Indra, bestow on us the best of treasures, the spirit of ability and fortune;

2 Even as the power of Dyaus, to thee, O Indra, all Asura sway was by the Gods entrusted, 3 Indra, Strong, Victor, Mightier than the mighty, addressed with prayer and perfect in his splendour, 4 There, Indra, while the light was won, the Panis f1ed, 'neath a hundred blows, for wise Dasoni, 5 What time the thunder fell and Susna perished, all life's support from the great Druh was taken. 6 As the Hawk rent for him the stalk that gladdens, he wrenched the head from Namuci the Dasa. 7 Thou, thunder−armed, with thy great might hast shattered Pipru's strong forts who knew the wiles of 8 The crafty Vetasu, the swift Dasni, and Tugra speedily with all his servants, 9 Resistless, with the hosts he battles, bearing in both his arms the Vrtra−slaying thunder. 10 May we, O Indra, gain by thy new favour: so Parus laud thee, with their sacrifices, 11 Favouring Usana the son of Kavi, thou wast his ancient strengthener, O Indra. 12 Thou, roaring Indra, drovest on the waters that made a roaring sound like rushing rivers, 13 This Indra, was thy work in war: thou sentest Dhuni and Cumuri to sleep and slumber.

2 As such, O Wonderful, whose hand holds thunder, praised as mighty, Caster of the Stone! 3 We call upon that Indra, who, most active, ever slays the foe: 4 Rcisama, thou forcest men as with a bull, with anger, in the furious fray. 5 O Indra, bring us name and fame, enriching, mightiest, excellent, 6 We call on thee, O King, Mighty amid the Gods, Ruler of men, to succour us. 7 All strength and valour that is found, Indra, in tribes of Nahusas, and all the splendid fame that the Five 8 Or, Maghavan, what vigorous strength in Trksi lay, in Druhyus or in Paru's folk, 9 O Indra, grant a happy home, a triple refuge triply strong. 10 They who with minds intent on spoil subdue the foe, boldly attack and smite him down,− 11 And now, O Indra, strengthen us: come near and aid us in the fight, 12 Give us, where heroes strain their bodies in the fight, the shelter that our fathers loved. 13 When, Indra, in the mighty fray thou urgest chargers to their speed, 14 Speeding like rivers rushing down a steep descent, responsive to the urging call,

2 Not interrupting heavenly ordinances, although she minisheth human generations. 3 There in the eastern region she, Heaven's Daughter, arrayed in garments all of light, appeareth. 4 Near is she seen, as 'twere the Bright One's bosom: she showeth sweet things like a new song−singer. 5 There in the east half of the watery region the Mother of the Cows hath shown her ensign. 6 She, verily, exceeding vast to look on debarreth from her light nor kin nor stranger. 7 She seeketh men, as she who hath no brother, mounting her car, as 'twere to gather riches. 8 The Sister quitteth, for the elder Sister, her place, and having looked on her departeth. 9 To all these Sisters who ere now have vanished a later one each day in course succeedeth. 10 Rouse up, O Wealthy One, the liberal givers; let niggard traffickers sleep on unwakened: 11 This young Maid from the east hath shone upon us; she harnesseth her team of bright red oxen. 12 As the birds fly forth from their resting places, so men with store of food rise at thy dawning. 13 Praised through my prayer be ye who should be lauded. Ye have increased our wealth, ye Dawns who

2 Impelled by Indra whom ye pray to urge you, ye move as 'twere on chariots to the ocean. 3 I have attained the most maternal River, we have approached Vipas, the broad, the blessed. 4 We two who rise and swell with billowy waters move forward to the home which Gods have made us. 5 Linger a little at my friendly bidding rest, Holy Ones, a moment in your journey. 6 Indra who wields the thunder dug our channels: he smote down Vrtra, him who stayed our currents. 7 That hero deed of Indra must be lauded for ever that he rent Ahi in pieces. 8 Never forget this word of thine, O singer, which future generations shall reecho. 9 List quickly, Sisters, to the bard who cometh to you from far away with car and wagon. 10 Yea, we will listen to thy words, O singer. With wain and car from far away thou comest. 11 Soon as the Bharatas have fared across thee, the warrior band, urged on and sped by Indra, 12 The warrior host, the Bharatas, fared over the singer won the favour of the Rivers. 13 So let your wave bear up the pins, and ye, O Waters, spare the thongs;

1 To this fair sacrifice to drink the milky draught thou art invoked: 2 No mortal man, no God exceeds thy mental power, O Mighty one − 3 All Gods devoid of guile, who know the mighty region of mid−air: 4 The terrible, who sing their song, not to be overcome by might: 5 Brilliant, and awful in their form, mighty, devourers of their foes': 6 Who sit as Deities in heaven, above the sky−vault's luminous sphere: 7 Who scatter clouds about the sky, away over the billowy sea: 8 Who with their bright beams spread them forth over the ocean in their might 9 For thee, to be thine early draught, I pour the Soma−mingled meath: 1 FOR the Celestial Race this song of praise which gives wealth lavishly 2 They who for Indra, with their mind, formed horses harnessed by a word, 3 They for the two Nasatyas wrought a light car moving every way: 4 The Rbhus with effectual prayers, honest, with constant labour, made 5 Together came your gladdening drops with Indra by the Maruts girt, 6 The sacrificial ladle, wrought newly by the God Tvastar's hand− 7 Vouchsafe us wealth, to him who pours thrice seven libations, yea, to each 8 As ministering Priests they held, by pious acts they won themselves,

2 Supreme in sovran power, far−sighted, Chiefs and Kings, most swift to hear from far away, 3 The rapid messenger who runs before you, Mitra−Varuna, with iron head, swift to the draught, 4 He whom no man may question, none may summon back, who stands not still for colloquy,− 5 To Aryaman and Mitra sing a reverent song, O pious one, 6 The true, Red Treasure they have sent, one only Son born of the Three. 7 My songs are lifted up, and acts most splendid are to be performed. 8 Lords of great wealth, when we invoke your bounty which no demon checks, 9 Come, Vayu, drawn by fair hymns, to our sacrifice that reaches heaven. 10 He comes by straightest paths, as ministering Priest, to taste the sacrificial gifts. 11 Verily, Surya, thou art great; truly, Aditya, thou art great. 12 Yea, Surya, thou art great in fame thou evermore, O God, art great. 13 She yonder, bending lowly down, clothed in red hues and rich in rays, 14 Past and gone are three mortal generations: the fourth and last into the Sun hath entered. 15 The Rudras' Mother, Daughter of the Vasus, centre of nectar, the Adityas' Sister− 16 Weak−minded men have as a cow adopted me who came hither from the Gods, a Goddess,

2 Even here is Indra famed, and among us this day the glorious Thunderer is praised, 3 He who is Sovran Lord of great and perfect strength, exerter of heroic might, 4 Harnessing to thy car, as God, two blustering Steeds Of the Wind−God, O Thunderer, 5 Even to these dark Steeds of Wind thou of thyself hast come to ride, 6 When ye approach, men ask you, thee and Usana: Why come ye to our dwelling−place? 7 O Indra, thou shalt speak us fair: our holy prayer is offered up. 8 Around us is the Dasyu, riteless, void of sense, inhuman, keeping alien laws. 9 Hero with Heroes, thou art ours: yea, strong are they whom thou dost help. 10 Urge thou these heroes on to slay the enemy, brave Thunderer! in the fight with swords. 11 Swift come those gifts of thine whose hand is prompt to rend and burn, O Hero Thunder−armed: 12 Let not thine excellent assistance come to us, O Hero Indra, profitless. 13 May those soft impulses of thine, O Indra, be fruitful and innocent to us. 14 That Earth, through power of knowing things that may be known, handless and footless yet might thriv 15 Drink, drink the Soma, Hero Indra; be not withheld as thou art good, O Treasure−giver.

2 And ye gave mighty Dadhikras, the giver of many gifts, who visiteth all people, 3 Whom, as 'twere down a precipice, swift rushing, each Puru praises and his heart rejoices,− 4 Who gaineth precious booty in the combats and moveth, winning spoil, among the cattle; 5 Loudly the folk cry after him in battles, as 'twere a thief who steals away a garment; 6 And, fain to come forth first amid these armies, this way and that with rows of cars he rushes, 7 And that strong Steed, victorious and faithful, obedient with his body in the combat, 8 And at his thunder, like the roar of heaven, those who attack tremble and are affrighted; 9 The people praise the overpowering swiftness of this fleet Steed who giveth men abundance. 10 Dadhikras hath o'erspread the Fivefold People with vigour, as the Sun lightens the waters. 2 I praise the mighty Steed who fills my spirit, the Stallion Dadhikravan rich in bounties, 3 Him who hath honoured, when the flame is kindled at break of dawn, the Courser Dadhikrivan, 4 When we remember mighty Dadhikravan our food and strength, then the blest name of Maruts, 5 Both sides invoke him as they call on Indra when they stir forth and turn to sacrificing. 6 So have I glorified with praise strong Dadhikravan, conquering Steed.

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 May Dyaus and Prthivi, wise, true to Holy Law, keep us in safety from distress and injury. 3 Mother of Mitra and of opulent Varuna, may Aditi preserve us safe from all distress. 4 May ringing press−stones keep the Raksasas afar, ill dream, and Nirrti, and each voracious fiend. 5 Full flow libations; on our grass let Indra sit; Brhaspati the singer laud with Sama hymns! 6 Ye Asvins, make our sacrifice ascend to heaven, and animate the rite that it may send us bliss, 7 Hither I call the band of Maruts, swift to hear, great, purifying, bringing bliss, to he our Friends. 8 We bring the Stay of Life, who makes the waters swell, swift−hearing, Friend of Gods, who waits on 9 Alive ourselves, with living sons, devoid of guilt, may we win this with winners by fair means to win. 10 Hear us, O ye who claim the worship of mankind, and give us, O ye Gods, the gift for which we pray, 11 We crave the gracious favour of the Gods to−day, great favour of great Gods, sublime and free from fo 12 In great enkindled Agni's keeping, and, for bliss, free from all sin before Mitra and Varuna. 13 All ye, the Gods whom Savitar the Father of truth, and Varuna and Mitra govern, 14 Savitar, Savitar from cast and westward, Savitar, Savitar from north and southward,

2 Now all this world, for worship, shall come after thee−the offerer's libations like floods to the depth, 3 To him the terrible, most meet for lofty praise, like bright Dawn, now bring gifts with reverence in this r 4 Thine, Indra, praised by many, excellently rich! are we who trusting in thy help draw near to thee. 5 Great is thy power, O Indra, we are thine. Fulfil, O Maghavan, the wish of this thy worshipper. 6 Thou, who hast thunder for thy weapon, with thy bolt hast shattered into pieces this broad massive clou 2 Never decaying, seizing his appropriate food, rapidly, eagerly through the dry wood he spreads. 3 Set high in place o'er all that Vasus, Rudras do, immortal, Lord of riches, seated as High Priest; 4 Urged by the wind be spreads through dry wood as he lists, armed with his tongues for sickles, with a 5 With teeth of flame, wind−driven, through the wood he speeds, triumphant like a bull among the herd of 6 The Bhrgus established thee among mankind for men, like as a treasure, beauteous, easy to invoke; 7 Agni, the seven tongues' deftest Sacrificer, him whom the priests elect at solemn worship, 8 Grant, Son of Strength, thou rich in friends, a refuge without a flaw this day to us thy praisers. 9 Be thou a refuge, Bright One, to the singer, a shelter, Bounteous Lord, to those who worship.

2 Whose prayers have they, the Youthful Ones, accepted? Who to his sacrifice hath turned the Maruts? 3 Whence comest thou alone, thou who art mighty, Indra, Lord of the Brave? What is thy purpose? 4 Mine are devotions, hymns; sweet are libations. Strength stirs, and hurled forth is my bolt of thunder. 5 Therefore together with our strong companions, having adorned our bodies, now we harness, 6 Where was that nature then of yours, O Maruts, that ye charged me alone to slay the Dragon? 7 Yea, much hast thou achieved with us for comrades, with manly valour like thine own, thou Hero. 8 Vrtra I slew by mine own strength, O Maruts, having waxed mighty in mine indignation. 9 Nothing, O Maghavan, stands firm before thee; among the Gods not one is found 10 Mine only be transcendent power, whatever I, daring in my spirit, may accomplish. 11 Now, O ye Maruts, hath your praise rejoiced me, the glorious hymn which ye have made me, Heroes! 12 Here, truly, they send forth their sheen to meet me, wearing their blameless glory and their vigour. 13 Who here hath magnified you, O ye Maruts? speed forward, O ye lovers, to your lovers. 14 To this hath Minya's wisdom brought us, so as to aid, as aids the poet him who worships. 15 May this your praise, may this your song, O Maruts, sung by the poet, Mana's son, Mandarya,

2 At night and morning, Agni, have they called to thee, like milch−kine in their stalls lowing to meet their 3 Him have the Gods established at the region's base, doer of wondrous deeds, Herald of heaven and earth 4 Him have they set in his own dwelling, in the vault, like the Moon waxing, fulgent, in the realm of air. 5 May he as Priest encompass all the sacrifice. men throng to him with offerings and with hymns of prais 6 Such as thou art, brilliantly kindled for our weal, a liberal giver, send us riches in thy shine, 7 Agni, give us great wealth, give riches thousandfold. unclose to us, like doors, strength that shall bring 8 Enkindled night by night at every morning's dawn, may he shine forth with red flame like the realm of 9 Song chanted by us men, O Agni, Ancient One, has swelled unto the deathless Gods in lofty heaven− 10 Agni, may we show forth our valour with the steed or with the power of prayer beyond all other men; 11 Such, Conqueror! be to us, be worthy of our praise, thou for whom princes nobly born exert themselve 12 Knower of all that lives, O Agni may we both, singers of praise and chiefs, be in thy keeping still. 13 The princely worshippers who send to those who sing thy praise, O Agni, guerdon, graced with kine a

2 Adhvaryus, he ye ready with oblations,, and come with longing to the longing Waters, 3 Go to the reservoir, O ye Adhvaryus worship the Waters' Child with your oblations. 4 He who shines bright in floods, unfed with fuel, whom sages worship at their sacrifices: 5 Those in which Soma joys and is delighted, as a young man with fair and pleasant damsels. 6 So maidens bow before the youthful gallant who comes with love to them who yearn to meet him. 7 He who made room for you when fast imprisoned, who freed you from the mighty imprecation,− 8 Send forth to him the meath−rich wave, O Rivers, which is your offspring and a well of sweetness, 9 Send forth the rapture−giving wave, O Rivers, which Indra drinks, which sets the Twain in motion; 10 These winding Streams which with their double current, like cattle−raiders, seek the lower pastures,− 11 Send forth our sacrifice with holy worship send forth the hymn and prayer for gain of riches. 12 For, wealthy Waters, ye control all treasures: ye bring auspicious intellect and Amrta. 13 When I behold the Waters coming hither, carrying with them milk and mcath and butter, 14 Rich, they are come with wealth for living beings, O friends, Adhvaryus, seat them in their places. 15 Now to this grass are come the longing Waters: the Pious Ones are seated at our worsh

2 Indra and Agni, Hero−lords when Vrtra fell, dwelling together, speeding emulously on, 3 Skilled in the Law I lift the hymn of praise to these, Law−strengtheners, unassailed, and great in majest 4 They with their might have stayed Heaven, Earth, and Prthivi, the Lord of Light, the firmament, −the 5 Bring gifts to Mitra and to Varuna who, Lords of all, in spirit never fail the worshipper, 6 The cow who yielding milk goes her appointed way hither to us as leader of holy rites, 7 The Gods whose tongue is Agni dwell in heaven, and sit, aiders of Law, reflecting, in the seat of Law. 8 Born in the oldest time, the Parents dwelling round are sharers of one mansion in the home of Law. 9 Parjanya, Vata, mighty, senders of the rain, Indra and Vayu, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman: 10 Tvastar and Vayu, those who count as Rbhus, both celestial Hotar−priests, and Dawn for happiness, 11 They generated prayer, the cow, the horse, the plants, the forest trees, the earth, the waters, and the hill 12 O Asvins, ye delivered Bhujyu from distress, ye animated Syava, Vadhrmati's son. 13 Thunder, the lightning's daughter, Aja−Ekapad, heaven's bearer, Sindhu, and the waters of the sea: 14 With Holy Thoughts and with Purandhi may all Gods, knowing the Law immortal, Manu's Holy Ones, 15 Immortal Gods have I, Vasistha, lauded, Gods set on high above all other beings.

2 His pair of Tawny Coursers bring Indra of unresisted might 3 Slayer of Vrtra, mount thy car; thy Bay Steeds have been yoked by prayer. 4 This poured libation, Indra, drink, immortal, gladdening, excellent. 5 Sing glory now to Indra, say to him your solemn eulogies. 6 When, Indra, thou dost yoke thy Steeds, there is no better charioteer: 7 He who alone bestoweth on mortal man who offereth gifts, 8 When will he trample, like a weed, the man who hath no gift for him? 9 He who with Soma juice prepared amid the many honours thee,− 10 The juice of Soma thus diffused, sweet to the taste, the bright cows drink, 11 Craving his touch the dappled kine mingle the Soma with their milk. 12 With veneration, passing wise, honouring his victorious might, 13 With bones of Dadhyac for his arms, Indra, resistless in attack, 14 He, searching for the horse's head, removed among the mountains, found 15 Then verily they recognized the essential form of Tvastar's Bull, 16 Who yokes to−day unto the pole of Order the strong and passionate steers of checkless spirit, 17 Who fleeth forth? who suffereth? who feareth? Who knoweth Indra present, Indra near us? 18 Who with poured oil and offering honours Agni, with ladle worships at appointed seasons? 19 Thou as a God, O Mightiest, verily blessest mortal man. 20 Let not thy bounteous gifts, let not thy saving help fail us, good Lord, at any time;

2 He who fixed fast and firm the earth that staggered, and set at rest the agitated mountains, 3 Who slew the Dragon, freed the Seven Rivers, and drove the kine forth from the cave of Vala, 4 By whom this universe was made to tremble, who chased away the humbled brood of demons, 5 Of whom, the Terrible, they ask, Where is He? or verily they say of him, He is not. 6 Stirrer to action of the poor and lowly, of priest, of suppliant who sings his praises; 7 He under whose supreme control are horses, all chariots, and the villages, and cattle; 8 To whom two armies cry in close encounter, both enemies, the stronger and the weaker; 9 Without whose help our people never conquer; whom, battling, they invoke to give them succour; 10 He who hath smitten, ere they knew their danger, with his hurled weapon many grievous sinners; 11 He who discovered in the fortieth autumn Sambara as he dwelt among the mountains; 12 Who with seven guiding reins, the Bull, the Mighty, set free the Seven great Floods to flow at pleasure 13 Even the Heaven and Earth bow down before him, before his very breath the mountains tremble. 14 Who aids with favour him who pours the Soma and him who brews it, sacrificer, singer. 15 Thou verily art fierce and true who sendest strength to the man who brews and pours libation.

2 This world's imperial Kings, O Mitra−Varuna, ye rule in holy synod, looking on the light. 3 Imperial Kings, strong, Heroes, Lords of earth and heaven, Mitra and Varuna, ye ever active Ones, 4 Your magic, Mitra−Varuna, resteth in the heaven. The Sun, the wondrous weapon, cometh forth as light 5 The Maruts yoke their easy car for victory, O Mitra−Varuna, as a hero in the wars. 6 Refreshing is your voice, O Mitra−Varuna: Parjanya sendeth out a wondrous mighty voice. 7 Wise, with your Law and through the Asura's magic power ye guard the ordinances, Mitra−Varuna. 2 Stretch out your arms with favouring love unto this man who singeth hymns, 3 That I may gain a refuge now, may my steps be on Mitra's path. 4 Mitra and Varuna, from you may I, by song, win noblest meed. 5 With your fair splendours, Varuna and Mitra, to our gathering come, 6 With those, moreover, among whom ye hold your high supremacy, 7 When morning flushes, Holy Ones! in the Gods' realm where white Cows shine, 2 For they are Kings of noblest might, of glorious fame most widely spread; 3 Approaching you with prayer for aid, together I address you first 4 E'en out of misery Mitra gives a way to dwelling at our case, 5 In Mitra's shelter that extends to utmost distance may we dwell, 6 Ye, Mitra, urge this people on, and to one end direct their ways.

2 Yea, for ourselves we claim the grace of Heaven and Earth, of Saryanavan, of the Hills and Mother 3 May the great Twain, the Mothers, Heaven and Earth, this day preserve us free from sin for peace and 4 May this first Dawn bring us the host of gracious Gods: rich, may it richly shine for us who strive for 5 Dawns, who come forward with the bright beams of the Sun, and at your earliest flushing bring to us th 6 Free from all sickness may the Mornings come to us, and let our fires mount upward with a lofty blaze. 7 Send us to−day a portion choice and excellent, O Savitar, for thou art he who dealeth wealth. 8 Further me this declaring of Eternal Law, the Law of Gods, as we mortals acknowledge it! 9 This day we pray with innocence in strewing grass, adjusting pressing−stones, and perfecting the hymn. 10 To our great holy grass I bid the Gods at morn to banquet, and will seat them as the seven priests,− 11 Come hither, O Adityas, for our perfect weal: accordant help our sacrifice that we may thrive. 12 Adityas, Gods, vouchsafe that this our home may be praise−worthy, prosperous, our heroes' sure defen 13 This day may all the Maruts, all he near us with aid: may all our fires be well enkindled. 14 He whom ye aid, O Deities, in battle, whom ye protect and rescue from affliction,

2 For the strong band of Maruts will we frame a hymn: the chiefs shall bring forth sacrifice for Indra's tro 3 May Indra with the Vasus keep our dwelling safe, and Aditi with Adityas lend us sure defence. 4 Aditi, Heaven and Earth, the great eternal Law, Indra, Visnu, the Maruts, and the lofty Sky. 5 With Holy Thoughts Sarasvan, firm−lawed Varuna, great Vayu, Pusan, Visnu, and the Asvins Twain, 6 Strong be the sacrifice, strong be the Holy Ones, strong the preparers of oblation, strong the Gods. 7 To win us strength I glorify the Mighty Twain, Agni and Soma, Mighty Ones whom many laud. 8 Potent, with firm−fixt laws, arranging sacrifice, visiting solemn rites in splendour of the day, 9 The Holy Ones engendered, for their several laws, the heavens and earth, the waters, and the plants and 10 May they who bear up heaven, the Rbhus deft of hand, and Vata and Parjanya of the thundering Bull, 11 Sindhu, the sea, the region, and the firmament, the thunder, and the ocean, Aja−Ekapad, 12 May we, be yours, we men, to entertain the Gods: further our sacrifice and give it full success. 13 I follow with success upon the path of Law the two celestial Hotars, Priests of oldest time. 14 Vasistha's sons have raised their voices, like their sire. Rsi−like praying to the Gods for happiness. 15 Immortal Gods have I, Vasistha, lauded, Gods set on high above all other beings.

2 Here let the ignorant ask the means of you who know−for none beside you knoweth aught − 3 Such as ye: are, all−wise, we call you. Ye wise, declare to us this day accepted prayer. 4 Simply, ye Mighty Ones, I ask the Gods of that wondrous oblation hallowed by the mystic word. 5 Forth go the hymn that shone in Ghosa Bhrgu's like, the song wherewith the son of Pajra worships you, 6 Hear ye the song of him who hastens speedily. O Asvins, I am he who sang your praise. 7 For ye were ever nigh to deal forth ample wealth, to give the wealth that ye had gathered up. 8 Give us not up to any man who hateth us, nor let our milch−cows stray, whose udders give us food, 9 May they who love you gain you for their Friends. Prepare ye us for opulence with strengthening food, 10 1 have obtained the horseless car of Asvins rich in sacrifice, 11 May it convey me evermore: may the light chariot pass from men 12 It holdeth slumber in contempt. and the rich who enjoyeth not: 2 He stablished heaven; he poured forth, skilful worker, the wealth of kine, for strength, that nurtures hero 3 Lord of red dawns, he came victorious, daily to the Angirases' former invocation. 4 In joy of this thou didst restore, for worship, the lowing company of hidden cattle. 5 Thine is that milk which thy swift−moving Parents brought down, a strengthening genial gift for conque 6 There is he born.

2 Set up to eastward of the fire enkindled, accepting prayer that wastes not, rich in hero. 3 Lord of the Forest, raise. thyself up on the loftiest spot of earth. 4 Well−robed, enveloped he is come, the youthful: springing to life his glory waxeth greater. 5 Sprung up he rises in the days' fair weather, increasing in the men−frequented synod. 7 O men who lift the ladles up, these hewn and planted in the ground, 8 Adityas, Rudras, Vasus, careful leaders, Earth, Heaven, and Prthivi and Air's mid−region, 9 Like swan's that flee in lengthened line, the Pillars have come to us arrayed in brilliant coIour. 10 Those Stakes upon the earth with rings that deck them seem to the eye like horns of horned creatures; 11 Lord of the Wood, rise with a hundred branches. with thousand branches may we rise to greatness, 2 Since thou delighting in the woods hast gone unto thy mother streams, 3 O'er pungent smoke host thou prevailed, and thus art thou benevolent. 4 Him who had passed beyond his foes, beyond continual pursuits, Him the unerring Ones, observant, fou 5 Him wandering at his own free will, Agni here hidden from our view, 6 O Bearer of Oblations, thus mortals received thee from the Gods, 7 Amid thy wonders this is good, yea, to the simple is it clear, 8 Offer to him who knows fair rites, who burns with purifying glow, 9 Three times a hundred Gods and thrice a thousand, and three times ten and nine have worshipped Agni,

2 Car ever young, much longed−for, easily invoked, soon guided, first in deeds of might, 3 These Asvins with our homage, these Two Omnipresent Deities 4 One of your chariot wheels is moving swiftly round, one speeds for you its onward course. 5 That chariot of yours which hath a triple seat and reins of gold, 6 Ye with your plough, when favouring Manu with your help, ploughed the first harvest in the sky. 7 Come to us, Lords of ample wealth, by paths of everlasting Law, 8 This Soma pressed with stones is yours, ye Heroes, Lords of plenteous wealth. 9 O Asvins, mount the chariot, mount the golden seat, ye who are Lords of plenteous wealth, 10 The aids wherewith ye helped Paktha and Adhrigt;, and Babhru severed from his friends,− 11 When we continually invoke the Asvins, the resistless, at this time of day, 12 Through these, ye Mighty Ones, come hither to my call which brings all blessings, wears all forms,− 13 I speak to both of these as such, these Asvins whom I reverence at this time of day: 14 Ye who are Lords of splendour, ye whose paths are red, at eve, at mom, at sacrifice, 15 For bliss I call. the blissful car, at morn the inseparable Asvins with their car 16 Rapid as thought, and strong, and speeding to thejoy, bringing.your swiftly−coming help, 17 Come, Wonder−Workers, to our home, our home, O Asvins, rich in cattle, steeds, and gold, 18 Choice−worthy strength, heroic, firm and excellent, uninjured by the Raksas foe,

2 Surya is he: throughout the wide expanses shall Indra turn him, swift as car−wheels, hithe 4 I will send forth my songs in flow unceasing, like water from the ocean's depth, to Indra. 5 Rousing with draughts, the Shaker, rushing onward, impetuous, very strong, armed as with arrows 6 Soma hath flowed to him whom naught can equal, the earth, the heavens, the firmament, the mountains, 7 As an axe fells the tree so be slew Vrtra, brake down the strongholds and dug out the rivers. 8 Wise art thou, Punisher of guilt, O Indra. The sword lops limbs, thou smitest down the sinner, 9 Men who lead evil lives, who break agreements, and injure Varuna, Aryaman and Mitra,− 10 Indra is Sovran Lord of Earth and Heaven, Indra is Lord of waters and of mountains. 11 Vaster than days and nights, Giver of increase, vaster than firmament and flood of ocean, 12 Forward, as herald of refulgent Morning, let thine insatiate arrow fly, O Indra. 13 Him, verily, the moons, the mountains followed, the tall trees followed and the plants and herbage. 14 Where was the vengeful dart when thou, O Indra, clavest the demon ever beat on outrage? 15 Those who are set in enmity against us, the Oganas, O Indra, waxen mighty,− 16 May plentiful libations of the people, and singing Rsis' holy prayers rejoice thee. 17 O Indra, thus may we be made partakers of thy new favours that shall bring us profit. 18 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best hero in the fight where spoil is gathered,

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,

10 Varuna, Mighty, with a thousand eyes, beholds the paths wherein these rivers run. 11 He, King of kings, the glory of the floods, o'er all that liveth hath resistless sway. 12 May he assist us among all the tribes, and make the envier's praise devoid of light. 13 May the foes' threatening arrow pass us by: may he put far from us our bodies' sin. 14 Agni, oblation−cater, through our prayers aid us: to him our dearest laud is brought. 15 Accordant with the Gods choose for our Friend the Waters' Child: may he be good to us. 16 With lauds I sing the Dragon born of floods: he sits beneath the streams in middle air. 17 Ne'er may the Dragon of the Deep harm us: ne'er fail this faithful servant's sacrifice. 18 To these our heroes may they grant renown: may pious men march boldly on to wealth. 19 Leading great hosts, with fierce attacks of these, they burn their foes as the Sun burns the earth. 20 What time our wives draw near to us, may he, left−handed Tvastar, give us hero sons. 21 May Tvastar find our hymn acceptable, and may Aramati, seeking wealth, be ours. 22 May they who lavish gifts bestow those treasures: may Rodasi and Varunani listen. 23 So may rich Mountains and the liberal Waters, so may all Herbs that grow on ground, and Heaven, 24 To this may both the wide Worlds lend approval, and Varuna in heaven, whose Friend is Indra. 25 May Indra, Varuna, Mitra, and Agni, Waters, Herbs, Trees accept the praise we offer.

1 MAKE glad with songs that Ram whom many men invoke, worthy of songs of praise, Indra, the sea of 2 As aids the skilful Rbhus yearned to Indra strong to save, who fills mid−air, encompassed round with 3 Thou hast disclosed the kine's stall for the Angirases, and made a way for Atri by a hundred doors. 4 Thou hast unclosed the prisons of the waters; thou hast in the mountain seized the treasure rich in gifts. 5 With wondrous might thou blewest enchanter fiends away, with powers celestial those who called on th 6 Thou savedst Kutsa when Susna was smitten down; to Atithigva gavest Sambara for a prey. 7 All power and might is closely gathered up in thee; thy bounteous spirit joys in drinking Soma juice. 8 Discern thou well Aryas and Dasyus; punishing the lawless give them up to him whose grass is strewn. 9 Indra gives up the lawless to the pious man, destroying by the Strong Ones those who have no strength. 10 The might which Usana hath formed for thee with might rends in its greatness and with strength both 11 When Indra hath rejoiced with Kavya Usana, he mounts his steeds who swerve wider and wider yet. 12 Thou mountest on thy car amid strong Soma draughts: Saryata brought thee those in which thou hast 13 To old Kaksivin, Soma−presser, skilled in song, O Indra, thou didst give the youthful Vrcaya. 14 The good man's refuge in his need is Indra, firm as a doorpost, praised among the Pajras. 15 To him the Mighty One, the self−resplendent, verily strong and great, this praise is uttered.

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 On thee for aid in sacrifice. This youth of ours, the bold, the mighty, hath gonse forth. 3 Come hither, for the drops are here, O Lord of corn−lands. Lord of horses, Lord of kine: 4 For we the kinless singers have drawn hither thee, O Indra, who hast numerous kin. 5 Sitting like birds beside thy meath., mingled with milk, that gladdeneth and exalteth thee, 6 We speak to thee with this our reverential prayer. Why art thou pondering yet awhile? 7 For not in recent times alone, O Indra, Thunder−armed, have we obtained thine aid. 8 Hero, we knew thy friendship and thy rich rewards: these, Thunderer, now we crave of thee. 9 Him who of old hath brought to us this and that blessing, him I magnify for you, 10 Borne by Bay Steeds, the Lord of heroes, ruling men, for it is he who takes; delight. 11 Hero, may we, with thee for Friend, withstand the man who pants against us in his wrath, 12 May we be victors in the singer's battlesong, and meet the wicked, Much invoked! 13 O Indra, from all ancient time rivalless ever and companionless art thou: 14 Thou findest not the wealthy man to be thy friend: those scorn thee who are flown with wine. 15 O Indra, let us not, like fools who waste their lives at home, with friendship such as thine 16 Giver of kine, may we not miss thy gracious gifts: let us not rob thee of thine own. 17 Indra or blest Sarasvati alone bestows such wealth, treasure so great, or thou, 18 Citra is King, and only kinglings are the rest who dwell beside Sarasvati.

2 So with our song that prays and serves, attentive, Lord of spreading light, 3 For, Ever−Youthful One, with thee, best Furtherer, as our ally, 4 As Aurva Bhrgu used, as Apnavana used, I call the pure 5 1 call the Sage who sounds like wind, the Might that like Parjanya roars, 6 As Savitar's productive Power, as him who sends down bliss, I call 7 Hither, for powerful kirship, I call Agni, him Who prospers you, 8 That through this famed One's power, he may stand by us even as Tvastar comes 9 This Agni is the Lord supreme above all glories mid the Gods: 10 Here praise ye him the most renowned of all the ministering Priests, 11 Piercing, with purifying flame, enkindled in our homes, most high, 12 Sage, laud the Mighty One who wins the spoil of victory like a steed, 13 Still turning to their aim in thee, the oblation−bearer's sister hymns 14 The waters find their place in him, for whom the threefold sacred grass 15 The station of the Bounteous God hath, through his aid which none impair, 16 Blazing with splendour, Agni, God, through pious gifts of sacred oil, 17 The Gods as mothers brought thee forth, the Immortal Sage, O Afigiras, 18 Wise Agni, Gods established thee, the Seer, noblest messenger, 19 No cow have I to call mine own, no axe at hand wherewith to work, 20 O Agni, whatsoever be the fuel that we lay for thee, 21 That which the white−ant cats away, that over which the emmet crawls− 22 When he enkindles Agni, man should with his heart attend the song:

42 Make Vayu glad,, for furtherance and bounty: cheer Varuna and Mitra, as they cleanse thee. 43 Flow onward righteous slayer of the wicked, driving away our enemies and sickness, 44 Pour us a fount of meath, a spring of treasure; send us a hero son and happy fortune. 45 Strong Soma, pressed, like an impetuous courser, hath flowed in stream as a flood speeding downward 46 Strong, wise, for thee who longest for his coming this Soma here flows to the bowls, O Indra. 47 He, purified with ancient vital vigour, pervading all his Daughter's forms and figures, 48 Now, chariot−borne, flow unto us, God Soma, as thou art purified flow to the saucers, 49 To feast him, flow mid song and hymn, to Vayu, flow purified to Varuna and Mitra. 50 Pour on us garments that shall clothe us meetly, send, purified, miIch−kine, abundant yielders. 51 Send to us in a stream celestial riches, send us, when thou art cleansed, what earth containeth, 52 Pour forth this wealth with this purification: flow onward to the yellow lake, O Indu. 53 Flow on for us with this purification to the famed ford of thee whose due is glory. 54 Eagerly do we pray for those two exploits, at the blue lake and Prsana, wrought in battle. 55 Thou comest unto three extended filters, and hasteriest through each one as they cleanse thee. 56 This Soma here, the Wise, the All−obtainer, flows on his way as King of all existence. 57 The Great Inviolate are kissing Indu, and singing in his place like eager sages. 58 Soma, may we, with thee as Pavamana, pile up together all our spoil in battle.

2 Cyavana, purposing deceptive presents, with all ingredients, made the altar ready. 3 To his oblations, swift as thought, ye hurried, and welcomed eagerly the prayers he offered. 4 I call on you the Sons of Dyaus, the Asvins, that a dark cow to my red kine be added. 10 Uttering praise to suit the rite Navagvas came speedily to win the damsel's friendship. 11 Swift was new friendship with the maid they quickly accepted it as genuine seed and bounty. 12 When afterwards they woke− and missed the cattle, the speaker thus in joyful mood addressed them: 13 His followers then who dwelt in sundry places came and desired too slay the son of Nrsad. 14 Thou, called Effulgence, in whose threefold dwelling, as in the light of heaven, the Gods are sitting, 15 And, Indra, bring, that I may laud and serve them, those Two resplendent glorious Nasatyas, 16 This King is praised and honoured as Ordainer: himself the bridge, the Sage speeds o'er the waters. 17 Vaitarana, doubly kinsman, sacrificer, shall milk the cow who ne'er hath calved, Sabardhu, 18 Their kin, the Prince in heaven, thy nearest kinsman, turning his thought to thee thus speaks in kindnes 19 Here is my kinship, here the place I dwell in: these are my Gods; I in full strength am present. 20 So mid these tribes he rests, the friendly envoy, borne on two paths, refulgent Lord of fuel. 21 Then went the milch−kine forth to please the damsel, and for the good of every man that liveth. 22 And take thou notice of us also, Indra, for ample riches, King whose arm wields thunder!

1 WE seeking strength with Soma−drops fill full your Indra like a well, 2 Who lets a hundred of the pure, a thousand of the milk−blent draughts 3 When for the strong, the rapturous joy he in this manner hath made room 4 This is thine own. Thou drawest near, as turns a pigeon to his mate: 5 O Hero, Lord of Bounties, praised in hymns, may power and joyfulness 6 Lord of a Hundred Powers, stand up to lend us succour in this fight 7 In every need, in every fray we call as friends to succour us 8 If he will hear us let him come with succour of a thousand kinds, 9 I call him mighty to resist, the Hero of our ancient home, 10 We pray to thee, O much−invoked, rich in all prccious gifts, O Friend, 11 O Soma−drinker, Thunder−armed, Friend of our lovely−featured dames 12 Thus, Soma−drinker, may it be; thus, Friend, who wieldest thunder, act 13 With Indra splendid feasts be ours, rich in all strengthening things wherewith, 14 Like thee, thyself, the singers' Friend, thou movest, as it were, besought, 15 That, Satakratu, thou to grace and please thy praisers, as it were, 16 With champing, neighing loudly−snorting horses Indra hath ever won himself great treasures 17 Come, Asvins, with enduring strength wealthy in horses and in kine, 18 Your chariot yoked for both alike, immortal, ye of mighty acts, 19 High on the forehead of the Bull one chariot wheel ye ever keep, 20 What mortal, O immortal Dawn, enjoyeth thee? Where lovest thou? 21 For we have had thee in our thoughts whether anear or far away, 22 Hither, O Daughter of the Sky, come thou with these thy strengthenings,

2 Drawn by thy team, O Vayu, come; to thee is offered this, the pure. 3 Indra and Vayu, drawn by teams, ye Heroes, come today and drink. 4 This Soma hath been shed for you, Lawstrengtheners, Mitra−Varuna! 5 Both Kings who never injure aught seat them in their supremest home, 6 Fed with oblation, Sovran Kings, Adityas, Lords of liberal gifts. 7 With kine, Nasatyas, and with steeds, come, Asvins, Rudras, to the house 8 Such, wealthy Gods! as none afar nor standing nigh to us may harm, 9 As such, O longed−far Asvins, lead us on to wealth of varied sort, 10 Verily Indra, conquering all, driveth e'en mighty fear away, 11 Indra be gracious unto us: sin shall not reach us afterward, 12 From all the regions of the world let Indra send security, 13 O all ye Gods, come hitherward: hear this mine invocation, seat 14 Among ihe gunahotras strong for you is this sweet gladdening draught. 15 Ye Martus led by Indra, Gods with Pri§an for your bounteousest, 16 Best Mother, best of Rivers, best of Goddesses, Sarasvati, We are, as 'twere, of no repute and dear Mot 17 In thee, Sarasvati, divine, all generations have their stay. 18 Enriched with sacrifice, accept Sarasvati, these prayers of ours, 19 Ye who bless sacrifice, go forth, for verily we choose you both, 20 This our.effectual sacrifice, reaching the sky, shall Heaven and Earth 21 In both your laps, ye guileless Ones, the Holy Gods shall sit them down 2 Let not the falcon kill thee, nor the eagle let not the arrow−bearing archer reach thee. 3 Bringing good tidings, Bird of happy omen, call thou out loudly southward of our dwellings,

2 With Bow let us win kine, with Bow the battle, with Bow be victors in our hot encounters. 3 Close to his car, as fain to speak, She presses, holding her well−loved Friend in her embraces. 4 These, meeting like a woman and her lover, bear, mother−like, their child upon their bosom. 5 With many a son, father of many daughters, He clangs and clashes as he goes to battle. 6 Upstanding in the Car the skilful Charioteer guides his strong Horses on whithersoe'er he will. 7 Horses whose hoofs rain dust are neighing loudly, yoked to the Chariots, showing forth their vigour, 8 Car−bearer is the name of his oblation, whercon are laid his Weapons and his Armour. 9 In sweet association lived the fathers who gave us life, profound and strong in trouble, 10 The Brahmans, and the Fathers meet for Soma−draughts, and, graciously inclined, unequalled Heaven 11 Her tooth a deer, dressed in an eagle's feathers, bound with cow−hide, launched forth, She flieth onwar 12 Avoid us thou whose flight is straight, and let our bodies be as stone. 13 He lays his blows upon their backs, he deals his blows upon their thighs. 14 It compasses the arm with serpent windings, fending away the friction of the bowstring: 15 Now to the Shaft with venom smeared, tipped with deer−horn, with iron mouth, 16 Loosed from the Bowstring fly away, thou Arrow, sharpened by our prayer. 17 There where the flights of Arrows fall like boys whose locks are yet unshorn. 18 Thy vital parts I cover with thine Armour: with immortality King Soma clothe thee. 19 Whoso would kill us, whether he be a strange foe or one of us,

27 The tribes who bring oblations call to thee, to thee to give them help, 28 There where the mountains downward slope, there by the meeting of the streams 29 Thence, marking, from his lofty place downward he looks upon the sea, 30 Then, verify, they see the light refulgent of primeval seed, 31 Indra, the Kanvas all exalt thy wisdom and thy manly power, 32 Accept this eulogy of mine, Indra, and guard me carefully: 33 For thee, O Mighty, Thunder−armed, we singers through devotionhave 34 To Indra have the Kanvas sung, like waters speeding down a slope: 35 As rivers swell the ocean, so our hymns of praise make Indra strong, 36 Come with thy lovely Bay Steeds, come to us from regions far away 37 Best slayer of Vrtras, men whose sacred grass is ready trimmed 38 The heavens and earth come after thee as the wheel follows Etasa: 39 Rejoice, O Indra, in the light, rejoice in Saryandyan, be Glad in the sacrificer's hymn. 40 Grown strong in heaven, the Thunder−armed hath bellowed, Vrtra−slayer, Bull, 41 Thou art a Rsi born of old, sole Ruler over all by might: 42 May thy Bay Steeds with beauteous backs, a hundred, bring thee to the feast, 43 The Kanvas with their hymns of praise have magnified this ancient thought 44 Mid mightiest Gods let mortal man choose Indra at the sacrifice, 45 Thy steeds, by Priyamedhas praised, shall bring thee, God whom all invoke, 46 A hundred thousand have I gained from Parsu, from Tirindira, 47 Ten thousand head of kine, and steeds three times a hundred they bestowed 48 Kakuha hath reached up to heaven, bestowing buffaloes yoked in fours,

2 For worthy of obeisance, Gods, are all your names, worthy of adoration and of sacrifice. 3 I will rejoice in these Adityas for my weal, for whom the Mother pours forth water rich in balm, 4 Looking on men, ne'er slumbering, they by their deserts attained as Gods to lofty immortality. 5 Great Kings who bless us, who have come to sacrifice, who, ne'er assailed, have set their mansion in the 6 Who offereth to you the laud that ye accept, O ye All−Gods of Manu, many as ye are? 7 Ye to whom Manu, by seven priests, with kindled fire, offered the first oblation with his heart and soul, 8 Wise Deities, who have dominion o'er the world, ye thinkers over all that moves not and that moves, 9 In battles we invoke Indra still swift to hear, and all the holy Host of Heaven who banish grief, 10 Mightily−saving Earth, incomparable Heaven the good guide Aditi who gives secure defence 11 Bless us, all Holy Ones, that we may have your help, guard and protect us from malignant injury. 12 Keep all disease afar and sordid sacrifice, keep off the wicked man's malicious enmity. 13 Untouched by any evil, every mortal thrives, and, following the Law, spreads in his progeny. 14 That which ye guard and grace in battle, O ye Gods, ye Maruts, where the prize is wealth, where heroe 15 Vouchsafe us blessing in our paths and desert tracts, blessing in waters and in battle, for the light; 16 The noblest Svasti with abundant riches, who comes to what is good by distant pathway,− 17 Thus hatb the thoughtful sage, the son of Plati, praised you, O Aditi and all Adityas,

2 Having gone up on high, the God broadhanded spreads his arms widely forth that all may mark him. 3 Though borne by swift steeds he will yet unyoke them: e'en the fleet chariot hath he stayed from going. 4 What was spread out she weaves afresh, re−weaving: the skilful leaves his labour half−completed. 5 Tlirough various dwellings, through entire existence, spreads, manifest, the household light of Agni. 6 He comes again, unfolded, fain for conquest: at home was he, the love of all things moving. 7 The wild beasts spread through desert places seeking their watery share which thou hast set in waters. 8 With utmost speed, in restless haste at sunset Varuna seeks his watery habitation. 9 Him whose high law not Varuna nor Indra, not Mitra, Aryaman, nor Rudra breaketh, 10 May they who strengthen bliss, and thought and wisdom, and the Dames' Lord and Narasamsa aid us. 11 So come to us our hearts' desire, the bounty bestowed by thee, from heaven and earth and waters, 2 Moving at morning like two chr−borne heroes, like to a pair of goats ye come electing; 3 Like to a pair of horns come first to usward, like to a pair of hoofs with rapid motion; 4 Bear us across the rivers like two vessels, save us as ye were yokes, naves, spokes and fellies. 5 Like two winds ageing not, two confluent rivers, come with quick vision like two eyes before us. 6 Even as two lips that with the mouth speak honey, even as two breasts that nourish our existence, 7 Like two hands give ye us increasing vigour; like heaven and earth constrain the airy regions. 8 These prayers of ours exalting you, O Asvins, have the GrtSamadas, for a laud, made ready.

2 The world was swallowed and concealed in darkness: Agni was born, and light became apparent. 3 Inspired by Gods who claim our adoration, I now will laud Eternal Lofty Agni, 4 Earliest Priest whom all the Gods accepted, and chose him, and anointed him with butter, 5 Because thou, Agni, Jatavedas, stoodest at the world's head with thy refulgent splendour, 6 Head of the world is Agni in the night−time; then, as the Sun, at morn springs up and rises. 7 Lovely is he who, kindled in his greatness, hath shone forth, seated in the heavens, refulgent. 8 First the Gods brought the hymnal into being; then they engendered Agni, then oblation. 9 He, Agni, whom the Gods have generated, in whom they offered up all worlds and creatures, 10 Then by the laud the Gods engendered Agni in heaven, who fills both worlds through strength and vig 11 What time the Gods, whose due is worship, set him as Surya, Son of Aditi, in heaven, 12 For all the world of life the Gods made Agni Vaisvanara to be the days' bright Banner,− 13 The wise and holy Deities engendered Agni Vaisvanara whom age ne'er touches. 14 We call upon the Sage with holy verses, Agni Vaisvanara the ever−beaming, 15 I have heard mention of two several pathways, ways of the Fathers and of Gods and mortals. 16 These two united paths bear him who journeys born from the head and pondered with the spirit 17 Which of us twain knows where they speak together, upper and lower of the two rite−leaders? 18 How many are the Fires and Suns in number? What is the number of the Dawns and Waters? 19 As great as is the fair−winged Morning's presence to him who dwells beside us, matarisvan!

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.

2 For like a King among his wives thou dwellest: with glories, as a Sage, surround and help us. 3 Here these our holy hymns with joy and gladness in pious emulation have approached thee. 4 Vasistha hath poured forth his prayers, desiring to milk thee like a cow in goodly pasture. 5 What though the floods spread widely, Indra made them shallow and easy for Sudas to traverse. 6 Eager for spoil was Turvasa Purodas, fain to win wealth, like fishes urged by hunger. 7 Together came the Pakthas, the Bhalanas, the Alinas, the Sivas, the Visanins. 8 Fools, in their folly fain to waste her waters, they parted inexhaustible Parusni. 9 As to their goal they sped to their destruetion: they sought Parusni; e'en the swift returned not. 10 They went like kine unherded from the pasture, each clinging to a friend as chance directed. 11 The King who scattered one−and−twenty people of both Vaikarna tribes through lust of glory− 12 Thou, thunder−armed, o'erwhelmedst in the waters famed ancient Kavasa and then the Druhyu. 13 Indra at once with conquering might demolished all their strong places and their seven castles. 14 The Anavas and Druhyus, seeking booty, have slept, the sixty hundred, yea, six thousand, 15 These Trtsus under Indra's careful guidance came speeding like loosed waters rushing downward. 16 The hero's side who drank the dressed oblation, Indra's denier, far o'er earth he scattered. 17 E'en with the weak he wrought this matchless exploit: e'en with a goat he did to death a lion. 18 To thee have all thine enemies submitted: e'en the fierce Bheda hast thou made thy subject. 19 Yamuna and the Trtsus aided Indra. There he stripped Bheda bare of all his treasures. 20 Not to be scorned, but like Dawns past and recent, O Indra, are thy favours and thy riches.

2 Brhaspati, God immortal! verily the Gods have gained from thee, the wise, a share in holy rites. 3 When thou hast chased away revilers and the gloom, thou mountest the refulgent car of sacrifice; 4 Thou leadest with good guidance and preservest men; distress o'ertakes not him who offers gifts to thee. 5 No sorrow, no distress from any side, no foes, no creatures double−tongued have overcome the man,− 6 Thou art our keeper, wise, preparer of our paths: we, for thy service, sing to thee with hymns of praise. 7 Him, too, who threatens us without offence of ours, the evilminded, arrogant, rapacious man,− 8 Thee as protector of our bodies we invoke, thee, saviour, as the comforter who loveth us. 9 Through thee, kind −prosperer, O Brahmanaspati, may we obtain the wealth of Men which all desire: 10 With thee as our own rich and liberal ally may we, Brhaspati, gain highest power of life. 11 Strong, never yielding, hastening to the battle−cry, consumer of the foe, victorious in the strife, 12 Whoso with mind ungodly seeks to do us harm, who, deeming him a man of might mid lords, would 13 The mover mid the spoil, the winner of all wealth, to be invoked in fight and reverently adored, 14 Burn up the demons with thy fiercest flaming brand, those who have scorned thee in thy manifested mi 15 Brhaspati, that which the foe deserves not which shines among the folk effectual, splendid, 16 Give us not up to those who, foes in ambuscade, are greedy for the wealth of him who sits at ease, 17 For Tvastar, he who knows each sacred song, brought thee to life, preeminent o'er all the things that be 18 The mountain, for thy glory, cleft itself apart when, Angiras! thou openedst the stall of kine. 19 O Brahmanaspati, be thou controller of this our hymn and prosper thou our children.

2 Swift and impetuous art thou, wondrous amid the well−dressed folk: 3 Even with the weak thou smitest down him 4 O Indra, we are close to thee; to thee we sing aloud our songs: 5 As such, O Caster of the Stone, come with thy succours wonderful, 6 May we be friends of one like thee, O Indra, with the wealth of kine, 7 For thou, O Indra, art alone the Lord of strength that comes from kine 8 They turn thee not another way, when, lauded, Lover of the Song, 9 The Gotamas have sung their song of praise to thee that thou mayst give, 10 We will declare thy hero deeds, what Disa forts thou brakest down, 11 The sages sing those manly deeds which, Indra, Lover of the Song, 12 Indra, the Gotamas who bring thee praises have grown strong by thee. 13 For, Indra, verily thou art the general treasure even of all. 14 Excellent Indra, turn to us: glad thee among us with the juice 15 May praise from us who think Qn thee, O Indra, bring thee near to us. 16 Eat of our sacrificial cake: rejoice thee in the songs we sing. 17 To India for a thousand steeds well−trained and fleet of foot we pray, 18 We make a hundred of thy kine, yea, and a thousand, hasten nigh: 19 We have obtained, a gift from thee, ten water−ewers wrought of gold: 20 A bounteous Giver, give us much, bring much and not a trifling gift: 21 O Vrtra−slayer, thou art famed in many a place as bountiful 22 I praise thy pair of Tawny Steeds, wise Son of him who giveth kine 23 Like two slight images of girls, unrobed, upon a new−wrought post, 24 For me the Bays are ready when I start, or start not, with the dawn, Innocuous in the ways they take.

2 Like Heroes on your will−yoked car farshining, Wonder−Workers! ye 3 By you, O Lords of ample wealth our songs of praise have been observed: 4 Kanvas must praise the Asvins dear to many, making many glad, 5 Most liberal, best at winning strength, inciters, Lords of splendour who 6 So for devout Sudeva dew with fatness his unfailing mead, 7 Hitherward running speedily with horses, as with rapid hawks, 8 Wherewith the three wide distances, and all the lights that are in heaven. 9 O Finders of the Day, that we may win us food of kine and wealth, 10 O Asvins, bring us wealth in kine, in noble heroes, and in cars: 11 Ye Lords of splendour, glorified, ye Wonder−Workers borne on paths 12 To us, ye Lords of ample wealth, and to our wealth chiefs extend 13 Come quickly downward to the prayer of people whom ye favour most: 14 Ye Asvins whom our minds perceive, drink of this lovely gladdening draught, 15 Bring riches hither unto us in hundreds and in thousands, source 16 Verily sages call on you, ye Heroes, in full many a place. 17 Men who have trimmed the sacred grass, bringing oblations and prepared, 18 May this our hymn of praise to−day, most powerful to bring you, be, 19 The skin filled full of savoury meath, laid in the pathway of your car− 20 For this, ye Lords of ample wealth, bring blessing for our herd, our kine, 21 Ye too unclose to us like doors the strengthening waters of the sky, 22 When did the son of' Tugra serve you, Men? Abandoned in the sea, 23 Ye, O Nasatyas, ministered to Kanva with repeated aid, 24 Come near with those most recent aids of yours which merit eulogy, 25 As ye protected Kanva erst, Priyamedha and Upastuta, 26 And Amsu in decisive fight, Agastya in the fray for kine.

2 In whom the hymns of praise delight, and all the glory−giving songs. 3 Him I invite with eulogy, best King, effective in the fight, 4 Whose perfect ecstasies are wide, profound, victorious, and give 5 Him, when the spoils of war are staked, men call to be their advocate: 6 Men honour him with stirring songs and magnify with solemn rites: 7 1ndra is priest and Rsi, he is much invoked by many men, 8 Meet to be lauded and invoked, true Hero with his deeds of might, 9 The men, the people magnify that Indra with their Slina. songs, 10 Him who advances them to wealth, sends light to lead them in the war, 11 May he, the saviour much−invoked, may Indra bear us in a ship 12 As such, O Indra, honour us with gifts of booty, further us, 2 O Indra, let thy long−maned Bays, yoked by prayer, bring thee hitherward 3 We Soma−bearing Brahmans call thee Soma−drinker with thy friend, 4 Come unto us who bring the juice, come unto this our eulogy, 5 I pour it down within thee, so through all thy members let it spread: 6 Sweet to thy body let it be, delicious be the savoury juice: 7 Like women, let this Soma−draught, invested with its robe, approach, 8 Indra, transported with the juice, vast in his bulk, strong in his neck 9 O Indra, go thou forward, thou who rulest over all by might: 10 Long be thy grasping−hook wherewith thou givest ample wealth to him 11 Here, Indra, is thy Soma−draught, made pure upon the sacred grass: 12 Famed for thy radiance, worshipped well this juice is shed for thy delight 13 To Kundapayya, grandson's son, grandson of Srngavrs! to thee, 14 Strong pillar thou, Lord of the home armour of Soma−offerers: 15 Holy Prdikusanu, winner of the spoil, one eminent o'er many men,

2 For thou by slaying Vrtra art the Vrtra−slayer, famed for might. 3 As such, when glorified, bring us riches of very wondrous fame, 4 Yea, Indra, thou disclosest that preeminent dear wealth of men: 5 The workers of destruction stay neither thy right hand nor thy left: 6 O Thunder−armed, I come with songs to thee as to a stall with kine: 7 Chief Vrtra−slayer, through the hymn of Visvamanas think of all, 8 May we, O Vrtra−slayer, O Hero, find this thy newest boon, Longed−for, and excellent, thou who art m 9 O Indra, Dancer, Much−invoked! as thy great power is unsurpassed, 10 Most Mighty, most heroic One, for mighty bounty fill thee full. 11 O Thunderer, never have our prayers gone forth to any God but thee: 12 For, Dancer, verily I find none else for bounty, saving thee, 13 For Indra pour ye out the drops meath blent with Soma let him drink 14 I spake to the Bay Coursers' Lord, to him who gives ability: 15 Never was any Hero born before thee mightier than thou: 16 O ministering priest, pour out of the sweet juice what gladdens most: 17 Indra, whom Tawny Coursers bear, praise such as thine, preeminent, 18 We, seeking glory, have invoked this Master of all power and might 19 Come, sing we praise to Indra, friends, the Hero who deserves the laud, 20 To him who wins the kine, who keeps no cattle back, Celestial God, 21 Whose hero powers are measureless, whose bounty ne'er may be surpassed, 22 As Vyasva did, praise Indra, praise the Strong unfluctuating Guide, 23 Now, son of Vyasva, praise thou him who to the tenth time still is new, 24 Thou knowest, Indra, Thunder−armed, how to avoid destructive powers, 25 O Indra, bring that aid wherewith of old, Most Wondrous! thou didst slay 26 So now we seek thee fresh in might, Most Wonderful in act!

2 I sing to cattle and to Earth, to trees, to Dawns, to Night, to plants. 3 Forth go, with Agni, to the Gods our sacrifice of ancient use, 4 Lords of all wealth, may they be strengtheners of man, destroyers of his enemies. 5 Come to us with one mind to−day, come to us all with one accord, 6 Send us delightful things, ye Maruts, on your steeds: come ye, O Mitra, to our gifts. 7 We who have trimmed the grass for you, and set the banquet in array, 8 O Maruts, Visinu, Asvins, Pusan, haste away with minds turned hitherward to Me. 9 Ye Guileless Gods, bestow on us a refuge strong on every side, 10 Kinship have I with you, and close alliance O ye Gods, destroyers of our foes. 11 For now have I sent forth to you, that I may win a fair reward, 12 Excellent Savitar hath mounted up on high for you, ye sure and careful Guides. 13 Singing their praise with God−like thought let us invoke each God for grace, 14 For of one spirit are the Gods with mortal man, co−sharers all of gracious gifts. 15 I laud you, O ye Guileless Gods, here where we meet to render praise. 16 He makes his house endure, he gathers plenteous food who pays obedience to your will. 17 E'en without war he gathers wealth, and goes hisway on pleasant paths, 18 E'en on the plain for him ye make a sloping path, an easy way where road is none: 19 If ye appoint the rite to−day, kind Rulers, when the Sun ascends, 20 Or, Asuras, when ye have sheltered the worshipper who goes to sacrifice, at eve 21 If ye to−day at sunrise, or at noon, or in the gloom of eve, 22 Then we, imperial Rulers, claim of you this boon, your wide protection, as a son.