Rig Veda on Service

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

2 All this with red−rayed steeds have they divided: the Dawns on bright cars shine in wondrous fashion. 3 Dawns, bringing hither, to the man who worships, glory and power and might and food and vigour, 4 Now is there treasure for the man who serves you, now for the hero, Dawns! who brings oblation; 5 O Dawn who standest on the mountain ridges, Angirases now praise thy stalls of cattle. 6 Shine on us as of old, thou Child of Heaven,on him, rich Maid! who serves like Bharadvaja.

2 Ye, Gods, are providence and ye are power: remove ye utterly all those who hate us. 3 What service may we do you with our future, what service, Vasus, with our ancient friendship? 4 Ye, O ye Gods, are verily our kinsmen as such be kind to me who now implore you. 5 I singly have sinned many a sin against you, and ye chastised me as a sire the gambler. 6 Turn yourselves hitherward this day, ye Holy, that fearing in my heart I may approach you. 7 May I not live, O Varuna, to witness my wealthy, liberal, dear friend's destitution.

2 With mine own heart I commune on the question how Varuna and I may be united. 3 Fain to know this in in I question others: I seek the wise, O Varuna, and ask them. 4 What, Varuna, hath been my chief transgression, ihat thou wouldst slay the friend who sings thy praises 5 Free us from sins committed by our fathers, from those wherein we have ourselves offended. 6 Not our own will betrayed us, but seduction, thoughtlessness, Varuna wine, dice, or anger. 7 Slavelike may I do service to the Bounteous, serve, free from sin, the God inclined to anger. 8 O Lord, O Varuna, may this laudation come close to thed and lie within thy spirit.

2 Born for us here this day, O Son of Vigour, between both races of born beings, Agni, 3 I laud the ruddy steeds who pour down blessing, dropping oil, flectest through the thoualit of Order. 4 Aryaman, Mitra, Varuna, and Indra with Visnu, of the Gods, Maruts and Asvins− 5 Agni, be this our sacrifice eternal, with brave friends, rich in kine and sheep and horses, 6 The man who, sweating, brings for thee the fuel, and makes his head to ache, thy faithful servant,− 7 Who brings thee food, though thou hast food in plenty, welcomes his cheerful guest and speeds him 8 Whoso sings praise to thee at eve or morning, and, with oblation, doth the thing thou lovest,− 9 Whoso brings gifts to thee Immortal, Agni, and doth thee service with uplifted ladle,− 10 Whose well−wrought worship thou acceptest, Agni, thou God a mortal's gift, thou liberal Giver,− 11 May he who knows distinguish sense and folly of men, like straight and crooked backs of horses. 12 This Sage the Sages, ne'er deceived, commanded, setting him down in dwellings of the living. 13 Good guidance hast thou for the priest, O Agni, who, Youngest God! with outpoured Soma serves thee 14 Now all that we, thy faithful servants, Agni, have done with feet, with hands, and with our bodies, 15 May we, seven sages first in rank, engender, from Dawn the Mother, men to be ordainers. 16 As in the days of old our ancient Fathers, speeding the work of holy worship, Agni, 17 Gods, doing holy acts, devout, resplendent, smelting like ore their human generations. 18 Strong One! he marked them−and the Gods before them−like herds of cattle in a foodful pasture. 19 We have worked for thee, we have laboured nobly−bright Dawns have shed their light upon our worsh 20 Agni, Disposer, we have sung these praises to thee the Wise: do thou accept them gladly.

7 Blest, Agni, be the man, the liberal giver, who with his lauds and regular oblation 8 I praise thy gracious favour: sing in answer. May this my song sing like a loved one with thee. 9 Here of free choice let each one serve thee richly, resplendent day by day at eve and morning. 10 Whoso with good steeds and fine gold, O Agni, comes nigh thee on a car laden with trcasure, 11 Through words and kinship I destroy the miglity: this power I have from Gotama my father. 12 Knowing no slumber, speedy and propitious, alert and ever friendly, most unwearied, 13 Thy guardian rays, O Agni, when they saw him, preserved blind Mamateya from affliction. 14 Aided by thee with thee may we be wealthy, may we gain strength with thee to guide us onward. 15 O Agni, with this fuel will we serve thee; accept the laud we sing to thee with favour

2 Worship at dawn and instigate the Asvins:nor is the worshipper at eve rejected. 3 Covered with gold, meath−tinted, dropping fatness, your chariot with its freight of food comes hither, 4 He who hath served most often the Nasatyas, and gives the sweetest food at distribution, 5 May we obtain the Asvins' newest favour, and gain their health−bestowing happy ildance.

2 Pervade, O Pavamana, all our treasures with repeated light, 3 Pour on us, Pavamana, rain, as service and rain praise for Gods: 4 Thou art a Steer by lustre: we, O Pavamana, faithfully 5 Do thou, rejoicing, nobly−armed! pour upon us heroic strength: 6 When thou art cleansed with both the hands and dipped in waters, with the wood.

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

2 Enkindled, thou art King of the immortal world: him who brings offerings thou attendest for his weal. 3 Show thyself strong for mighty bliss, O Agni, most excellent be thine effulgent splendours. 4 Thy glory, Agni, I adore, kindled, exalted in thy strength. 5 Agni, invoked and kindled, serve the Gods, thou skilled in sacrifice: 6 Invoke and worship Agni while the sacrificial rite proceeds:

2 Protect Tryaruna, as thou art waxing strong and art highly praised, Vaisvanara Agni! 3 So Trasadasyu served thee, God Most Youthful, craving thy favour for the ninth time, Agni; 4 He who declares his wish to me, to Asvamedha, to the Prince, 5 From whom a hundred oxen, all of speckled hue, delight my heart, 6 To Asvamedha who bestows a hundred gifts grant hero power,

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!

2 Wait, Maruts, Heroes, upon him the Prosperer in whom is bliss−increasing wealth; 3 As such, O Agni, deal us wealth and hero might, O Bounteous One! 4 He who made all that lives, who passes all in might, who orders service to the Gods, 5 Give us not up to indigence, Agni, nor want of hero sons, 6 Help us to strength, blest Agni! rich in progeny, abundant, in our sacrifice.

2 Agni, burn up the unfriendly who are near us, burn thou the foeman's curse who pays no worship. 3 With fuel, Agni, and with oil, desirous, mine offering I present for strength and conquest, 4 Give with thy glow, thou Son of Strength, when lauded, great vital power to those who toil to serve thee 5 Give us, O liberal Lord, great gtore of riches, for, Agni, such art thou when duly kindled.

2 May Narasamsa lighting up the chambers, bright in his majesty through threefold heaven, 3 Adored in heart, as is thy right, O Agni, serve the Gods first to−day before the mortal. 4 O Grass divine, increasing, rich in heroes, strewn for wealth' sake, well laid upon this altar,− 5 Wide be the Doors, the Goddesses, thrown open, easy to pass, invoked, through adorations, 6 Good work for us, the glorious Night and Morning, like female weavers, waxen from aforetime, 7 Let the two heavenly Heralds, first, most wise, most fair, present oblation duly with the sacred verse, 8 Sarasvati who perfects our devotion, Ila divine, Bharati all surpassing,− 9 Born is the pious hero swift of hearing, like gold in hue, well formed, and full of vigour. 10 Vanaspati shall stand anear and start us, and Agni with his arts prepare oblation. 11 Oil has been mixt: oil is his habitation. In oil he rests: oil is his proper province. 2 Bhrgus who served him in the home of waters set him of old in houses of the living. 3 Among the tribes of men the Gods placed Agni as a dear Friend when they would dwell among them. 4 Sweet is his growth as of one's own possessions; his look when rushing fain to burn is lovely. 5 Since they who honour me have praised my greatness,−he gave, as 'twere, his hue to those who love hi 6 Like one athirst, he lighteth up the forests; like water down the chariot ways he roareth. 7 Around, consuming the broad earth, he wanders, free roaming like an ox without a herdsman,− 8 I, in remembrance of thine ancient favour have sung my hymn in this our third assembly. 9 May the Grtsamadas, serving in secret, through thee, O Agni, overcome their neighbours,

2 I sit as Priest most skilled in sacrificing: the Maruts and all Deities impel me. 3 Who is the Priest? Is he the Priest of Yama? On whom is thrust this God−appointed honour? 4 The Gods have made me bearer of oblations, who slipped away and passed through many troubles. 5 So will I win you strength and life for ever. O Gods, that I may give you room and freedom. 6 The Deities three hundred and thirty−nine, have served and honoured Agni,

2 For thou hast ever been the Car−driver, Agni, of noble 3 Through these our praises come thou to meet us, bright as the sunlight, 4 Now may we serve thee singing these lauds this day to thee, Agni. 5 just at this time of the day and the night thy look is the sweetest. 6 Spotless thy body, brilliant as gold, like clarified butter: 7 All hate and mischief, yea, if committed, Agni, thou turnest, 8 Agni, with you Gods, prosperous be our friendships and kinships.

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

2 Wise Agni Jatavedas, I beget a song of praise for thee. 3 Thy sharpened flames, O Agni, like the gleams of light that glitter through, 4 Gold−coloured, bannered with the smoke, urged by the wind, aloft to heaven 5 These lightly kindled fiery flames are all around made visible, 6 As Jatavedas speeds along, the dust is black beneath his feet, 7 Making the plants his nourishment, Agni devours and wearies not, 8 Bending him down with all his tongues, he flickers with his fiery glow 9 Agni, thine home is in the floods: into the plants thou forcest way, 10 Worshipped with offerings shines thy flame, O Agni, from the sacred oil, 11 Let us serve Agni with our hymns, Disposer, fed on ox and cow, 12 Yea, thee, O Agni, do we seek with homage and with fuel, Priest 13 O worshipped with oblations, pure Agni, we call on thee as erst, 14 For thou, O Agni, by the fire, Sage by the Sage, Good by the Good, 15 So wealth in thousands, food with store of heroes give thou to the sage, 16 O Agni, Brother, made by strength, Lord of red steeds and brilliant sway, 17 My praises, Agni, go to thee, as the cows seek the stall to meet, 18 Agni, best Angiras, to thee all people who have pleasant homes, 19 The sages skilled in holy song and thin. kers with their thoughts have urged 20 So, Agni, unto thee the Priest, Invoker, strong in forays, pray 21 In many a place, the same in look art thou, a Prince o'er all the tribes 22 Pray thou to Agni, pray to him who blazes served with sacred oil: 23 We call on thee as such, as one who hears, as Jatavedas, one, 24 I pray to Agni, King of men, the Wonderful, the President 25 Him like a bridegroom, him who stirs all people, like a noble horse, 26 Slaying things deadly, burning up foes, Riksasas, on every side, 27 Thou whom the people kindle even as Manus did, best Angiras! 28 O Agni, made by strength!

2 He who is germ of waters, germ of woods, germ of all things that move not and that move,− 3 Agni is Lord of riches for the man who serves him readily with sacred songs. 4 Whom many dawns and nights, unlike, make strong, whom, born in Law, all things that move and stand 5 Thou settest value on our cows and woods: all shall bring tribute to us to the light. 6 Like a brave archer, like one skilled and bold, a fierce avenger, so he shines in fight.

2 Pour hitherward, as Indra's Self, Indu, that gladdening stream of thine, 3 Flow to the filter hitherward, pouring that ancient gladdening juice, 4 Hither the sparkling drops have flowed, like waters down a steep descent 5 Whom, having passed the filter, ten dames cleanse, as 'twere a vigorous steed, 6 The steer−strong juice with milk pour forth, for feast and service of the Gods, 8 Soul of the sacrifice, the juice effused flows quickly on: he keeps 9 So pouring forth, as Indra's Friend, strong drink, best Gladdener! for the feast,

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

2 Let the impatient Portals be thrown open bring thou the Gods impatient to come hither. 3 Taste, Agni: serve the Gods with our oblation. Offer good sacrifices, Jatavedas! 4 Let Jatavedas pay fair sacrifices, worship andgratify the Gods Immortal. 5 Wise God, win for us things that are all−goodly, and let the prayers, we pray today be fruitful. 6 Thee, even thee, the Son of Strength, O Agni, those Gods have made the bearer of oblations. 7 To thee the God may we perform our worship: do thou, besought, grant us abundant riches.

2 Ye who behold the light of heaven, Rbhuksans, give our rich patrons unmolested riches. 3 For thou, O Bounteous One, art used to giving, at parting treasure whether small or ample. 4 Indra, high−famed, as Vaja and Rbhuksans, thou goest working, singing to the dwelling. 5 Thou winnest swift advancement for thy servant, through hymns, Lord of Bay Steeds, which thou hast 6 To us thy priests a home, as 'twere, thou givest: when, Indra wilt thou recognize our praises? 7 Though Nirrti the Goddess reigneth round him, Autumns with food in plenty come to Indra. With three

2 None who is born or being born, God Visnu, hath reached the utmost limit of thy grandeur. 3 Rich in sweet food be ye, and rich in milch−kine, with fertile pastures, fain to do men service. 4 Ye have made spacious room for sacrificing by generating Surya, Dawn, and Agni. 5 Ye have destroyed, thou, Indra, and thou Visnu, Sambara's nine−and−ninety fenced castles. 6 This is the lofty hymn of praise, exalting the Lords of Mighty Stride, the strong and lofty. 7 O Visnu, unto thee my lips cry Vasat! Let this mine offering, Sipivista, please thee.

2 At eve and morn thy pious servants bring thee their precious gifts, O Priest of many aspects, 3 Thou from of old hast dwelt among these people, by mental power the charioteer of blessings. 4 Agni, whoever secretly attacks us, the neighbour, thou with Mitra's might! who harms us, 5 He who serves thee with sacrifice and fuel, with hymn, O Son of Strength, and chanted praises, 6 Do this, O Agni, when we urge thee, quickly, triumphant in thy might subdue our foemen. 7 Help us, that we may gain this wish, O Agni, gain riches, Wealthy One! with store of heroes.

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

2 For the broad Sun was seen a path more widely laid, the path of holy law hath been maintained with ray 3 With Aditi the luminous, the celestial, upholder of the people, come ye day by day, ye who watch sleepl 4 This Soma be most sweet to Mitra, Varuna: he in the drinking−feasts, shall have a share thereof, sharing 5 Whoso, with worship serves Mitra and VaruiIa, him guard ye carefully, uninjured, from distress, guard 6 Worship will I proress to lofty Dyaus, to Heaven and Earth, to Mitra and to bounteous Varuna, the 7 With the Gods' help, with Indra still beside us, may we be held self−splendid with the Maruts.

2 Thus, Indra−Agnip verily your greatness merits loftiest praise, 3 These who delight in flowing juice, like fellow horses at their food, 4 Indra and Agni, Friends of Law, served with rich gifts, your speech is kind 5 What mortal understands, O Gods, Indra and Agni, this your way? 6 First, Indra−Agni, hath this Maid come footless unto those with feet. 7 E'en now, O Indra−Agni, men hold in their arms and stretch their bows. 8 The foeman's sinful enmities, Indra and Agni, vex me sore. 9 Indra and Agni, yours are all the treasures of the heavens and earth. 10 O Indra−Agni, who accept the laud, and hear us for our praise,

2 Ye who inspire all hymns, Indra and Visnu, ye vessels who contain the Soma juices, 3 Lords of joy−giving draughts, Indra and Visnu, come, giving gifts of treasure, to the Soma. 4 May your foe−conquering horses bring you hither, Indra and Visnu, sharers of the banquet. 5 This your deed, Indra−Visnu, must be lauded: widely ye strode in the wild joy of Soma. 6 Strengthened with sacred offerings, IndraVisnu, first eaters, served with worship ana oblation, 7 Drink of this meath, O Indra, thou, and Visnu; drink ye your fill of Soma, Wonder−Workers. 8 Ye Twain have conquered, ne'er have yc been conquered: never hath either of the Twain been vanquish

3 Whom with their mouth they magnify, bannered with flame and homed in light. 4 Kind, Furtherer of men, he comes, when he hath reached the ends of heaven, 5 To taste man's offerings, he, the Strong, hath risen erect at sacrifice: 6 Here are oblation, worship, rest: rapidly comes his furtherance. 7 With service for chief bliss I seek the Lord of Sacrifice, Agni, whom 8 Blest evermore be all the men who come from us, who magnify 9 The path he treads is black and white and red, and striped, and brown, crimson, and glorious. 10 Thus with his thoughts, O Son of Strength, O Agni, hath Vimada, accordant with the Immortals,

2 Foremost be he who brings thee food, O Mitra, who strives to keep thy sacred Law, Aditya. 3 joying in sacred food and free from sickness, with knees bent lowly on the earth's broad surface, 4 Auspicious and adorable, this Mitra was born with fair dominion, King, Disposer. 5 The great Aditya, to be served with wor. ship, who stirreth men, is gracious to the singer. 6 The gainful grace of Mitra,. God, supporter of the race of man, 7 Mitra whose glory spreads afar, he who in might surpasses heaven, 8 All the Five Races have repaired to Mitra, ever strong to aid, 9 Mitra to Gods, to living men, to him who strews the holy grass,

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

2 Him in whose presence, when they meet in full assembly, men rejoice; 3 When we present to him the food and sacrificial gifts of men, 4 He gives a signal in the night even to him who is afar, 5 He in whose service on the ways they offer up their drops of sweat, 6 Whom, sought of many, mortal man hath found to be the Stay of all; 7 Even as a herd that crops the grass he shears the field and wilderness, 8 For him, to whom, bright as an axe he, as to Atri, hath flashed forth, 9 Agni to whom the oil is shed by him thou lovest to support, 10 Such zeal hath he, resistless one: he gained the cattle given by thee.

2 Thy greatness reacheth to our invocation, the sages' prayer which, Potent God, thou guardest. 3 What time thou drewest both world−halves together, like heroes led by thee who call each other− 4 Honour us in these present days, O Indra, for hostile men are making expiation. 5 We will address this liberal Lord, this Indra, that he may grant us gifts of ample riches, 2 Come to us quickly with thy Bay Steeds, Hero, come to our prayer, accepting our devotion. 3 What satisfaction do our hymns afford thee? When, Maghavan? Now let us do thee service. 4 They, verily, were also human beings whom thou wast wont to hear, those earlier sages. 5 We will address this liberal Lord, this Indra, that he may grant us gifts of ample riches,

ye triumphed in your heart, and onward went to liberate the flood of milk; 19 Wherewith ye brought awife for Vimada to wed, wherewith ye freely gave the ruddy cows away; 20 Wherewith ye bring great bliss to him who offers gifts, wherewith ye have protected Bhujyu, Adhrigu, 21 Wherewith ye served Krsanu where the shafts were shot, and helped the young man's horse to swiftnes 22 Wherewith ye speed the hero as he fights for kine in hero battle, in the strife for land and sons, 23 Wherewith ye, Lords of Hundred Powers, helped Kutsa, son of Aduni, gave Turviti and Dabhiti streng 24 Make ye our speech effectual, O ye Asvins, and this our hymn, ye mighty Wonder−Workers. 25 With, undiminished blessings, O ye Asvins, for evermore both night and day protect us.

2 Sole among chiefs, companionless, impetuous, and peerless, he 3 Lord of swift bounty, he will win e'en with a steed of worthless sort. 4 Come to us.hither: let us pay devotions that enhance thy might, 5 For thou, O Indra, makest yet more bold the spirit of the bold 6 Worthy of song, he looketh down as a man looketh into wells. 7 In strength and wisdom all the Gods, Indra, have yielded unto thee. 8 Praised, Indra, is this might of thine, best for the service of the Gods, 9 He makes the races of mankind like synods of the Beauteous One. 10 Thy might, O Indra, at its birth, thee also, and thy mental power, 11 O Vrtra−slayer, thou and I will both combine for winning spoil. 12 Let us extol this Indra as truthful and never as untrue.

2 To Asamati, spring of gifts, lord of the brave, a radiant car, 3 Who, when the spear hath armed his hand, or even weaponless o'erthrows 4 Him in whose service flourishes Iksvaku, rich and dazzling−bright. 5 Indra, support the princely power of Rathaprosthas matched by none, 6 Thou for Agastya's sister's sons yokest thy pair of ruddy steeds. 7 This is the mother, this the sire, this one hath come to be thy life. 8 As with the leather thong they bind the chariot yoke to hold it fast, 9 Even as this earth, the mighty earth, holds fast the monarchs of the wood. 10 Subandlin's spirit I have brought from Yarna, from Vivasvan's Son, 11 The wind blows downward from on high, downward the Sun−God sends his heat, 12 Felicitous is this mine hand, yet more felicitous is this.

2 When, seeking your enjoyment onward from afar, ye, certain of my kinsmen, wandered on your way, 3 Savitar therefore gave you immortality, because ye came proclaiming him whom naught can hide; 4 When they had served with zeal at sacrifice as priests, they, mortal as they were, gained immortality. 5 The Rbhus, with a rod measured, as 'twere a field, the single sacrificial chalice. wide of mouth, 6 As oil in ladles, we through knowledge will present unto the Heroes of the firmament our hymn,− 7 Rbhu to us is Indra freshest in his might, Rbhu with powers and wealth is giver of rich gifts. 8 Out of a skin, O Rbhus, once ye formed a cow, and brought the mother close unto her calf again. 9 Help us with strength where spoil is won, O Indra: joined with the gbhus give us varied bounty.

2 As these, like friends, have done this work for you, these prompt servants of Purumilha Soma−offerer, 3 The folk have glorified your birth from Earth and Heaven, to be extolled, ye Strong Ones, for your migh 4 The people prospers, Asuras! whom ye dearly love: ye, Righteous Ones, proclaim aloud the Holy Law. 5 On this great earth ye send your treasure down with might: unstained by dust, the crowding kine are in t 6 The flames with curling tresses serve your sacrifice, whereto ye sing the song, Mitra and Varuna. 7 Whoso with sacrifices toiling brings you gifts, and worships, sage and priest, fulfilling your desire,− 8 With sacrifices and with milk they deck you first, ye Righteous Ones, as if through stirrings of the mind 9 Rich strength of life is yours: ye, Heroes, have obtained through your surpassing powers rich far−extend

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

2 The Gods infallible all searching found not him, the dear Babe who still is round about us. 3 Because with holy oil the pure Ones, Agni, served thee the very pure three autumn seasons, 4 Making them known to spacious earth and heaven, the holy Ones revealed the powers of Rudra. 5 Nigh they approached, one−minded, with their spouses, kneeling to him adorable paid worship. 6 Soon as the holy beings had discovered the thrice−seven mystic things contained within thee, 7 Thou, Agni, knower of men's works, hast sent us good food in constant course for our subsistence: 8 Knowing the Law, the seven strong floods from heaven, full of good thought, discerned the doors of ric 9 They who approached all noble operations making a path that leads to life immortal, 10 When Gods immortal made both eyes of heaven, they gave to him the gift of beauteous glory. No

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

2 Or when on that decisive day thou holpest the presser of the juice at Vrtra's slaughter; 3 Let Indra drink the pressed−out Soma, Helper and mighty Guide of him who sings his praises. 4 E'en humble rites with his Bay steeds he visits: he wields the bolt, drinks Soma, gives us cattle. 5 What he hath longed for we have brought to Indra, who from the days of old hath done us service. 6 Thou hast made prayer the means of thine exalting, therefore we wait on thee with hymns, O Indra. 7 Mark well our sacrificial cake, delighted Indra, drink Soma and the milk commingled. 8 O Mighty One, be joyful as thou willest. Let these our sacrifices reach and find thee; 9 Friends, when thejuices flow, replenish duly your own, your bounteous Indra with the Soma. 10 While Soma flowed, thus Indra hath been lauded, Ruler of nobles, mid the Bharadvajas,

2 Wild in their course, in well−marked wise rejoicing were they, Brhaspati, who pressed around us. 3 Brhaspati, from thy remotest distance have they sat down who love the law eternal. 4 Brhaspati, when first he had his being from mighty splendour in supremest heaven, 5 With the loud−shouting band who sang his praises, with thunder, he destroyed obstructive Vala. 6 Serve we with sacrifices, gifts, and homage even thus the Steer of all the Gods, the Father. 7 Surely that King by power and might heroic hath made him lord of all his foes' posses−ions, 8 In his own house he dwells in peace and comfort: to him for ever holy food flows richly. 9 He, unopposed, is master of the riches.of his own subjects and of hostile people. 10 Indra, Brhaspati, rainers of treasure, rejoicing at this sacrifice drink the Soma. 11 Brhaspati and Indra, make us prosper may this be your benevolence to usward.

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

2 The priests beard far away, as they are ordered, serve the three Nirrtis, for well they know them. 3 The Youthful One, well−shaped, with four locks braided, brightened with oil, puts on the ordinances. 4 One of these Birds hath passed into the sea of air: thence he looks round and views this universal world. 5 Him with fair wings though only One in nature, wise singers shape, with songs, in many figures. 6 While they arrange the four and six−and−thirty, and duly order, up to twelve, the measures, 7 The Chariot's majesties are fourteen others: seven sages lead it onward with their Voices. 8 The fifteen lauds are in a thousand places that is as vast as heaven and earth in measure. 9 What sage hath learned the metres' application? Who hath gained Vak, the spirit's aim and object? 10 Yoked to his chariot−pole there stood the Coursers: they only travel round earth's farthest limits.

2 He was set down mid men as Priest unerring, Agni, wise, welcome in our holy synods. 3 The glowing ladle, filled with oil, is lifted; choosing Gods' service to the right he circles. 4 When sacred grass is strewn and Agni kindled, the Adhvaryu rises to, his task rej o cing. 5 Agni himself, the Priest, with measured motion, goes round, with sweet speech, cheerful, true to Order. 6 Beautiful and auspicious is thine aspect, O lovely Agni, terrible when spreading. 7 Naught hindered his production, Bounteous Giver: his Mother and his Sire were free to send him. 8 He, Agni, whom the twice−five sisters, dwelling together, in the homes of men engendered, 9 These thy Bay Coursers, Agni, dropping fatness, ruddy vigorous, speeding straightly forward, 10 These brightly−shining games of thine, O Agni, that move for ever restless, allsubduing, 11 To thee, O flaming God, hath prayer been offered. Let the priest laud thee: give to him who worships.

2 Knowing your birth and rich in gathered treasure, Rbhus, rejoice together with the Rtus. 3 For you was made this sacrifice, O Rbhus, which ye, like men, won for yourselves aforetime. 4 Now for the mortal worshipper, O Heroes, for him who served you, was the gift of riches. 5 Come to us, Heroes, Vajas and Rbhuksans, glorified for the sake of mighty treasure. 6 Come to this sacrifice of ours, ye Children of Strength, invoked with humble adoration. 7 Close knit with Varuna drink the Soma, Indra; close−knit, ilymn−lover! with the Maruts drink it: 8 Rejoice in full accord with the Adityas, in concord with the Parvatas, O Rbhus; 9 Rbhus, who helped their Parents and the Asvins, who formed the Milch−cow and the pair of horses, 10 Ye who have wealth in cattle and in booty, in heroes, in rich sustenance and treasure, 11 Ye were not far: we have not left you thirsting, blameless in this our sacrifice, O Rbhus.

37 O Child of Strength, to thee whose look is lovely we with dainty food, 38 To thee for shelter are we come, as to the shade from fervent heat 39 Mighty as one who slays with shafts, or like a bull with sharpened horn, 40 Whom, like an infant newly born, devourer, in their arms they bear, 41 Bear to the banquet of the Gods the God best finder−out of wealth, 42 In Jatavedas kindle ye the dear guest who hath now appeared 43 Harness, O Agni, O thou God, thy steeds which are most excellent: 44 Come hither, bring the Gods to us to taste the sacrificial feast, 45 O Agni of the Bharatas, blaze high with everlasting might, 46 The mortal man who serves the God with banquet, and, bringing gifts at sacrifice, lauds Agni, 47 Agni, we bring thee, with our hymn, oblation fashioned in the heart. 48 The Gods enkindle Agni, best slayer of Vrtra, first in rank,

2 With sacrifice to these we men will honour the majesty of holy Narasamsa− 3 We will extol at sacrifice for ever, as men may do, Agni whom Manu kindled, 4 Bearing the sacred grass, the men who serve him strew it with reverence, on their knees, by Agni. 5 With holy thoughts the pious have thrown open Doors fain for chariots in the Gods' assembly. 6 And let the two exalted Heavenly Ladies, Morning and Night, like a cow good at milking, 7 You, Bards and Singers at men's sacrifices, both filled with wisdom, I incline to worship. 8 May Bharati with all her Sisters, Ila accordant with the Gods, with mortals Agni, 9 Well pleased with us do thou, O God, O Tvastar, give ready issue to our procreant vigour, 10 Send to the Gods the oblation, Lord of Forests, and let the Immolator, Agni, dress it. 11 Come thou to us, O Agni, duly kindled, together with the potent Gods and Indra.

2 O Indra, drink the Soma juice pressed out with stones. poured from the reservoir, as an ox drinks the spr 3 He found the treasure brought from heaven that lay concealed, close−hidden, like the nestling of a bird, 4 Grasping his thunderbolt with both hands, Indra made its edge most keen, for hurling, like a carving−kn 5 Thou, Indra, without effort hast let loose the floods to run their free course down, 6 Eager for riches, men have formed for thee this song, like as a skilful craftsman fashioneth a car, so hav 7 For Puru thou hast shattered, Indra ninety forts, for Divodasa thy boon servant with thy bolt, O Dancer, 8 Indra in battles help his Aryan worshipper, he who hath hundred helps at hand in every fray, in frays tha 9 Waxed strong in might at dawn he tore the Sun's wheel off. Bright red, he steals away their speech, the 10 Lauded with our new hymns, O vigorous in deed, save us with strengthening help, thou Shatterer of th

2 Whom, served with sacrificial oil like Mitra, men presenting gifts 3 Much−lauded Jatavedas, him who bears oblations up to heaven 4 To noblest Agni, Friend of man, best Vrtra−slayer, are we come, 5 To deathless Jatavedas, meet for praise, adored, with sacred oil, 6 Even Agni whom these priestly men worship with sacrificial gifts, 7 O Agni, this our newest hymn hath been addressed from us to thee, 8 Agni, may it be dear to thee, most grateful, and exceeding sweet: 9 Splendid with splendours may it be, and in the battle with the foe 10 Steed, cow, a lord of heroes, bright like Indra, who shall fill the car. 11 Thou whom Gopavana made glad with song, O Agni Angiras, 12 Thou whom the priestly folk implore to aid the gathering of the spoil, 13 I, called to him who reels with joy, Srutarvan, Rksa's son, shall stroke 14 Four coursers with a splendid car, Savistha's horses, fleet of foot, 15 The very truth do I declare to thee, Parusni, mighty flood.

2 Butter is that which makes Vadhryaiva's fire growstrong: the butter is its food, the butter makes it fat. 3 Still newest is this face of thine, O Agni, which Manu and Sumitra have enkindled. 4 Accept this offering, Agni, whom aforetime Vadhryasva, hath entreated and enkindled. 5 Be splendid, guard us Kinsman of Vadhryasva: let not the enmity of men o'ercome thee, 6 All treasures hast thou won, of plains and mountains, and quelled the Dasas' and Aryas' hatred. 7 Deft Agni hath a lengthened thread, tall oxen, a thousand heifers, numberless devices. 8 Thine is the teeming cow, O Jatavedas, who pours at once her ceaseless flow, Sabardhuk, 9 Even Immortal Gods, O Jatavedas, Vadhryasva's Kinsman, have declared thy grandeur. 10 Like as a father bears his son, O Agni, Vadhryasva bare thee in his lap and served thee. 11 Vadhryasva's Agni evermore hath vanquished his foes with heroes who had pressed the Soma. 12 This Agni of Vadhryasva, Vrtra−slayer, lit from of old, must be invoked with homage.

2 Be gracious unto us, O Rudra, bring us joy: thee, Lord of Heroes, thee with reverence will we serve. 3 By worship of the Gods may we, O Bounteous One, O Rudra, gain thy grace, Ruler of valiant men. 4 Hither we call for aid the wise, the wanderer, impetuous Rudra, perfecter of sacri fice. 5 Him with the braided hair we call with reverence down, the wild−boar of the sky, the red, the dazzling 6 To him the Maruts' Father is this hymn addressed, to strengthen Rudra's might, a song more sweet than 7 O Rudra, harm not either great or small of us, harm not the growing boy, harm not the full−grown man. 8 Harm us not, Rudra, in our seed and progeny, harm us not in the living, nor in cows or steeds, 9 Even as a herdsman I have brought thee hymns of praise: O Father of the Maruts, give us happiness, 10 Far be thy dart that killeth men or cattle: thy bliss be with us, O thou Lord of Heroes. Be graci

2 What time the Rbus had with care and marvels done proper service to assist their Parents, 3 May they who made their Parents, who were lying like posts that moulder, young again for ever,− 4 As for a year the Rbhus kept the Milch−cow, throughout a year fashioned and formed her body, 5 Two beakers let us make,− thus said the eldest. Lct us make three,− this was the younger's sentence. 6 The men spake truth and even so they acted: this Godlike way of theirs the Rbhus followed. 7 When for twelve days the Rbhus joyed reposing as guests of him who never may be hidden, 8 May they who formed the swift car, bearing Heroes, and the Cow omniform and all−impelling, 9 So in their work the Gods had satisfaction, pondering it with thought and mental insight. 10 They whol made glad with sacrifice and praises, wrought the two Bays, his docile Steeds, for Indra,− 11 This day have they set gladdening drink before you. Not without toil are Gods inclined to friendship.

2 Aryaman art thou as regardeth maidens mysterious, is thy name, O Self−sustainer. 3 The Maruts deck their beauty for thy glory, yea, Rudra! for thy birth fair, brightly−coloured. 4 Gods through thy glory, God who art so lovely! granting abundant gifts gained life immortal. 5 There is no priest more skilled than thou in worship; none Self−sustainer pass thee in wisdom. 6 Aided by thee, O Agni may we conquer through our oblation, fain for wealth, awakened: 7 He shall bring evil on the evil−plottcr whoever turns against us sin and outrage. 8 At this dawn's flushing, God! our ancient fathers served thee with offerings, making thee their envoy, 9 Save, thou who knowest, draw thy father near thee, who counts as thine own son, O Child of Power. 10 Adoring thee he gives thee many a title, when thou, Good Lord! acceptest this as Father. 11 Most Youthful Agni, verily thou bearest thy praiser safely over all his troubles. 12 To thee these eulogies have been directed: or to the Vasu hath this sin been spoken.

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 From mortal men they hid the Immortal Lady, made one like her and gave her to Vivasvan. 3 Guard of the world, whose cattle ne'er are injured, may Pusan bear thee hence, for he hath knowledge. 4 May Ayu, giver of all life, protect thee, and bear thee forward on the distant pathway. 5 Pusan knows all these realms: may he conduct us by ways that are most free from fear and danger. 6 Pusan was born to move on distant pathways, on the road far from earth and far from heaven. 7 The pious call Sarasvati, they worship Sarasvati while sacrifice proceedeth. 8 Sarasvati, who camest with the Fathers, with them rejoicing thee in our oblations, 9 Thou, called on as Sarasvati by Fathers who come right forward to our solemn service, 10 The Mother Floods shall make us bright and shining, cleansers of holy oil, with oil shall cleanse us: 11 Through days of earliest date the Drop descended on this place and on that which was before it. 12 The Drop that falls, thy stalk which arms have shaken, which from the bosom of the press hath fallen, 13 That fallen Drop of thine, the stalk which from the ladle fell away, 14 The plants of earth are rich in milk, and rich in milk is this my speech;

2 She never vexed me nor was angry with me, but to my friends and me was ever gracious. 3 My wife holds me aloof, her mother hates me: the wretched man finds none to give him comfort. 4 Others caress the wife of him whose riches the die hath coveted, that rapid courser: 5 When I resolve to play with these no longer, my friends depart from me and leave me lonely. 6 The gamester seeks the gambling−house, and wonders, his body all afire, Shall I be lucky? 7 Dice, verily, are armed with goads and driving−hooks, deceiving and tormenting, causing grievous woe. 8 Merrily sports their troop, the three−and−fifty, like Savitar the God whose ways are faithful. 9 Downward they roll, and then spring quickly upward, and, handless, force the man with hands to serve 10 The gambler's wife is left forlorn and wretched: the mother mourns the son who wanders homeless. 11 Sad is the gambler when he sees a matron, another's wife, and his well−ordered dwelling. 12 To the great captain of your mighty army, who hath become the host's imperial leader, 13 Play not with dice: no, cultivate thy corn−land. Enjoy the gain, and deem that wealth sufficient. 14 Make me your friend: show us some little mercy. Assail us not with your terrific fierceness.