Rig Veda on The Soul

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

2 Bearing thy body, Vajin, may thy body afford us blessing and thyself protection. 3 Strong Steed art thou: go to the yearning Maidens with vigour, happily go to heaven and praises: 4 Part of their grandeur have the Fathers also gained: the Gods have seated mental power in them as Gods 5 They strode through all the region with victorious might, establishing the old immeasurable laws. 6 In two ways have the sons established in his place the Asura who finds the light, by the third act, 7 As in a ship through billows, so through regions of air, with blessings, through toils and troubles 2 May we obtain, completely wrought, the thread spun out to reach the Gods, 3 We call the spirit hither with the Soma of our parted sires, 4 Thy spirit come to thee again for wisdom, energy, and lire, 5 O Fathers, may the Heavenly Folk give us our spirit once again, 6 O Soma with the spirit still within us, blest with progeny,

2 The flying Bird bears Speech within his spirit: erst the Gandharva in the womb pronounced it: 3 I saw the Herdsman, him who never resteth, approaching and departing on his pathways.

2 Here is the psalm for wealth, and food, in plenty: let us do many deeds to bring us glory. 3 May we o'ercome our foes with acts of valour, as heaven is over earth, hills over lowlands. 4 Give us not up as prey to death, O Sorna still let us look upon the Sun arising. 5 O Asuniti, keep the soul within us, and make the days we have to live yet longer. 6 Give us our sight again, O Asuniti, give us again our breath and our enjoyment. 7 May Earth restore to us our vital spirit, may Heaven the Goddess and mid−air restore it. 8 May both Worlds bless Subandhu, young Mothers of everlasting Law. 9 Health−giving medicines descend sent down from heaven in twos and threes, 10 Drive forward thou the wagon−ox, O Indra, which brought Usinarani's wagon hither.

2 Where, like men cleansing corn−flour in a cribble, the wise in spirit have created language, 3 With sacrifice the trace of Vak they foIlowed, and found her harbouring within the Rsis. 4 One man hath ne'er seen Vak, and yet he seeth: one man hath hearing but hath never heard her. 5 One man they call a laggard, dull in friendship: they never urge him on to deeds of valour. 6 No part in Vak hath he who hath abandoned his own dear friend who knows the truth of friendship. 7 Unequal in the quickness of their spirit are friends endowed alike with eyes and hearing. 8 When friendly Brahmans sacrifice together with mental impulse which the heart hath fashioned, 9 Those men who step not back and move not forward, nor Brahmans nor preparers of libations, 10 All friends are joyful in the friend who cometh in triumph, having conquered in assembly. 11 One plies his constant task reciting verses. one sings the holy psalm in Sakvari measures.

2 Bring swift, for offering, the snare that suits the time, to the pure−drinker Vayu, roaring as he goes, 3 May Savitar the God send us full life, to each who sacrifices, lives aright and pours the juice 4 May Indra evermore be gracious unto us, and may King Soma meditate our happiness, 5 Indra hath given the body with its song and strength: Brhaspati, thou art the lengthener of life. 6 Indra possesseth might celestial nobly formed: the singer in the hotise is Agni, prudent Sage. 7 Not often have we sinned against you secretly, nor, Vasus, have we openly provoked the Gods. 8 May Savitar remove from us our malady, and may the Mountains keep it far away from where 9 Ye Vasus, let the stone, the presser stand erect: avert all enmities and keep them far remote. 10 Eat strength and fatness in the pasture, kine, who are balmed at the reservoir and at the seat of Law. 11 The singer fills the spirit: all mens, love hath he. Indra takes kindly care of those who pour the juice. 12 Wondrous thy spirit−filling light, triumpliant; thy hosts save from decay and are resistless.

2 This Steed which Yama gave hath Trita harnessed, and him, the first of all, hath Indra mounted. 3 Yama art thou, O Horse; thou art Aditya; Trita art thou by secret operation. 4 Three bonds, they say, thou hast in heaven that bind thee, three in the waters, 5 Here−, Courser, are the places where they groomed thee, here are the traces of thy hoofs as winner. 6 Thyself from far I recognized in spirit,−a Bird that from below flew through the heaven. 7 Here I beheld thy form, matchless in glory, eager to win thee food at the Cow's station. 8 After thee, Courser, come the car, the bridegroom, the kine come after, and the charm of maidens. 9 Horns made of gold hath he: his feet are iron: less fleet than he, though swift as thought, is Indra. 10 Symmetrical in flank, with rounded haunches, mettled like heroes, the Celestial Coursers 11 A body formed for flight hast thou, O Charger; swift as the wind in motion is thy spirit. 12 The strong Steed hath come forward to the slaughter, pondering with a mind directed God−ward. 13 The Steed is come unto the noblest mansion, is come unto his Father and his Mother.

2 Along the traces of the Wind they hurry, they come to him as dames to an assembly. 3 Travelling on the paths of air's midregion, no single day doth he take rest or slumber. 4 Germ of the world, the Deities' vital spirit, this God moves ever as his will inclines him.

2 Bring what thou deemest worth the wish, O Indra, that which is in heaven. 3 Thy lofty spirit, far−renowned as fain to give and prompt to win,− 4 Singers with many songs have made Indra propitious to their fame, 5 To him, to Indra must be sung the poet's word, the hymn of praise.

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

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 juice effused, thine are the juices yet to be pressed: our resonant songs invite thee. 3 Whoso, devoted to the God, effuses Soma for him with yearning heart and spirit,− 4 He looks with Ioving favour on the mortal who, like a rich man, pours for him the Soma. 5 We call on thee to come to us, desirous of goods and spoil, of cattle, and of horses.

2 Seven to the one−wheeled chariot yoke the Courser; bearing seven names the single Courser draws it. 3 The seven who on the seven−wheeled car are mounted have horses, seven in tale, who draw them onwa 4 Who hath beheld him as he sprang to being, seen how the boneless One supports the bony? 5 Unripe in mind, in spirit undiscerning, I ask of these the Gods' established places; For up above the year 6 I ask, unknowing, those who know, the sages, as one all ignorant for sake of knowledge, 7 Let him who knoweth presently declare it, this lovely Bird's securely founded station. 8 The Mother gave the Sire his share of Order: with thought, at first, she wedded him in spirit. 9 Yoked was the Mother to the boon Cow's car−pole: in the dank rows of cloud the Infant rested. 10 Bearing three Mothers and three Fathers, single he stood erect: they never make him weary. 11 Formed with twelve spokes, by length of time, unweakened, rolls round the heaven this wheel of durin 12 They call him in the farther half of heaven the Sire five−footed, of twelve forms, wealthy in watery sto 13 Upon this five−spoked wheel revolving ever all living creatures rest and are dependent. 14 The wheel revolves, unwasting, with its felly: ten draw it, yoked to the far−stretching car−pole. 15 Of the co−born they call the seventh single−born; the six twin pairs are called Rsis, Children of Gods. 16 They told me these were males, though truly females: he who hath eyes sees this, the blind discerns no 17 Beneath the upper realm, above this lower, bearing her calf at foot the Cow hath risen. 18 Who, that the father of this Calf discerneth beneath the upper realm, above the lower, 19 Those that come hitherward they call departing, those that depart they call directed hither.

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

2 Vena draws up his wave from out the ocean. mist−born, the fair one's back is made apparent, 3 Full many, lowing to their joint−possession, dwelling together stood the Darling's Mothers. 4 Knowing his form, the sages yearned to meet him: they have come nigh to hear the wild Bull's bellow. 5 The Apsaras, the Lady, sweetly smiling, supports her Lover in sublimest heaven. 6 They gaze on thee with longing in their spirit, as on a strong−winged bird that mounteth sky−ward;

2 May Agni the resplendent hear my calling through all my songs, Immortal, keen of insight. 3 On wood supine they got the well−formed Infant: a germ in various−fashioned plants was Agni; 4 With oil and sacred gifts I sprinkle Agni who makes his home in front of all things living, 5 I pour to him who looks in all directions: may he accept it with a friendly spirit. 6 By choice victorious, recognize thy portion: with thee for envoy may we speak like Manu.

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

2 Ensign of sacrifice, the earliest Household−Priest, the. men have kindled Agni in his threefold seat, 3 Pure, unadorned, from thy two Mothers art thou born: thou camest fromVivasvan as a charming Sage. 4 May Agni graciously come to our sacrifice. The men bear Agni here and there in every house. 5 For thee, O Agni, is this sweetest prayer of mine: dear to thy spirit be this product of my thought. 6 O Agni, the Angirases discovered thee what time thou layest hidden, fleeing back from wood to wood.

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 Flashing like fire, be thou, O conquering Manyu, invoked, O Victor, as our army's leader. 3 O Manyu, overcome thou our assailant on! breaking, slaying, crushing down the foemen. 4 Alone or many thou art worshipped, Manyu: sharpen the spirit of each clan for battle. 5 Unyielding bringing victory like Indra, O Manyu, be thou here our Sovran Ruler. 6 Twin−born with power, destructive bolt of thunder, the highest conquering might is thine, Subduer! 7 For spoil let Varuna and Manyu give us the wealth of both sides gathered and collected;

2 Whoso to thee, the Mighty, brings oblation, pure Soma unto thee, pure−drinking Vayu, 3 The God whom both these worlds brought forth for riches, whom heavenly Dhisana for our wealth 4 The spotless Dawns with fair bright days have broken; they found the spacious light when they were 5 These with their truthful spirit, shining brightly, move on provided with their natural insight. 6 May these who give us heavenly light, these rulers, with gifts of kine and horses, gold and treasures. 7 Like coursers seeking fame will we Vasisthas, O Indra−Vayu, with our fair laudations.

2 In all libations men with hero spirit urge the Universal One, each seeking several light, each fain to win 3 Couples desirous of thine aid are storming thee, pouring their presents forth to win a stall of kine, pouri 4 This thine heroic power men of old time have known, wherewith thou breakest down, Indra, autumnal f 5 And they have bruited far this hero−might when thou, O Strong One, in thy joy helpest thy suppliants, 7 O Indra, waxen strong and well−inclined to us, thou very mighty, slay the man that is our foe, slay the

2 Through piety they came to Indra for his aid, they whose libations give theejoy. 3 Agreeing in your spirit, all ye Deities, come nigh to us. 4 May Pusan, Visnu, and Sarasvati befriend, and the Seven Streams, this call of mine: 5 Indra, with thine own bounteous gift, most liberal of the Mighty Ones, 6 Leader of heroes, Lord of battle, lead thou us to combat, thou Most Sapient One. 7 Our hopes rest on the Faithful One: in Indra is the people's life. 8 Thee would we worship, Indra, with our songs of praise: O Satakratu, be thou ours.

2 Death was not then, nor was there aught immortal: no sign was there, the day's and night's divider. 3 Darkness there was: at first concealed in darknew this All was indiscriminated chaos. 4 Thereafter rose Desire in the beginning, Desire, the primal seed and germ of Spirit. 5 Transversely was their severing line extended: what was above it then, and what below it? 6 Who verily knows and who can here declare it, whence it was born and whence comes this creation? 7 He, the first origin of this creation, whether he formed it all or did not form it,

2 May these rites please you in your heart and spirit; may the drops clothed in oil this day approach you. 3 Your threefold going near is God−appointed, so praise is given you, Vajas and Rbhuksans. 4 Strong, with fair chains of gold and jaws of iron, ye have a splendid car and well−fed horses. 5 Rbhuksans! him, for handy wealth, the mightiest comrade in the fight, 6 The mortal man whom, Rbhus, ye and Indra favour with your help, 7 O Vajas and Rbhuksans, free for us the paths to sacrifice, 8 O Vajas and Rbhuksans, ye Nasatyas, Indra, bless this wealth,

2 Pass, O ye Asvins, pass away beyond all tribes of selfish men, 3 Come to us, O ye Asvin Pair, bringing your precious treasures, come 4 O strong and Good, the voice of him who lauds you well cleaves to your car. 5 Watchful in spirit, born on cars, impetuous, listing to his cry, 6 Hither, O Heroes, let your steeds, of dappled hue, yoked at the thought, 7 O Asvins, hither come to us; Nasatyas, be not disinclined. 8 Ye Lords of Splendour, free from guile, come, stand at this our sacrifice. 9 Dawn with her white herd hath appeared, and in due time hath fire been placed.

2 I know not either warp or woof, I know not the web they weave when moving to the contest. 3 For both the warp and woof he understandeth, and in due time shall speak what should be spoken, 4 He is the Priest, the first of all: behold him. Mid mortal men he is the light immortal. 5 A firm light hath been set for men to look on: among all things that fly the mind is swiftest. 6 Mine ears unclose to hear, mine eye to see him; the light that harbours in my spirit broadens. 7 All the Gods bowed them down in fear before thee, Agni, when thou wast dwelling in the darkness.

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 Sought in the heavens, on earth is Agni stablished, leader of rivers, Bull of standing waters. 3 For fear of thee forth fled the dark−hued races, scattered abroad, deserting their possessions, 4 Agni Vaisvanara, both Earth and Heaven submit them to thy threefold jurisdiction. 5 Agni, the tawny horses, loudly neighing our resonant hymns that drop with oil, attend thee; 6 In thee, O bright as Mitra, Vasus seated the might of Aduras, for they loved thy spirit. 7 Born in the loftiest heaven thou in a moment reachest, like wind, the place where Gods inhabit. 8 Send us that strength, Vaisvanara, send it, Agni, that strength, O Jatavedas, full of splendour, 9 Agni, bestow upon our chiefs and nobles that famous power, that wealth which feedeth many.

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

2 They who with might were manifest, and who willingly by their own knowledge told it forth, Evayamar 3 Who by the psalm they sing are heard, from lofty heaven, the strong, the brightly shining Ones, 4 He of the Mighty Stride forth strode, Evayamarut, out of the spacious dwelling−place, their home in 5 Like your tremendous roar, the rainer with light flashing, strong, speeding, hath made all tremble, 6 Unbounded is your greatness, ye of mighty power: may your bright vigour be our aid, Evayamarut; 7 So may the Rudras, mighty warriors, Evayamarut, with splendid brilliancy, like fires, be our protectors; 8 Come in a friendly spirit, come to us, O Maruts, and hear his call who praises you, Evayamarut. 9 Come to our sacrifice, ye Hnly Ones, to bless it, and, free from demons, hear our call, Evayamarut.

2 Waxing greatness Indra slayeth Vrtra: the Hero with his aid hath helped the singer. He gave S 4 Thou with thy greatness hast filled full, O Indra, even both the worlds with might, O thou Most Mighty. 5 A Bull begat the Bull for joy of battle, and a strong Mother brought forth him the manly. 6 The people falter not, nor suffer sorrow, who win themselves this God's terrific spirit. 7 Whene'er the elder fain would help the younger the greater cometh to the lesser's present. 8 Thy dear folk, Indra, who present oblations, are, in chief place, thy friends, O Thunder−wielder. 9 To thee the mighty hymn hath clamoured loudly, and, Maghavan, the eloquent hath besought thee. 10 Place us by food which thou hast given, O Indra, us and the wealthy patrons who command 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 O pleasant Food, O Food of meath, thee have we chosen for our own, 3 Come hitherward to us, O Food, auspicious with auspicious help, 4 These juices which, O Food, are thine throughout the regions are diffused. 5 These gifts of thine, O Food, O Food most sweet to taste, 6 In thee, O Food, is set the spirit of great Gods. 7 If thou be gone unto the splendour of the clouds, 8 Whatever morsel we consume from waters or from plants of earth, O Soma, wax thou fat thereby. 9 What Soma, we enjoy from thee in milky food or barley−brew, Vatapi, grow thou fat thereby. 10 O Vegetable, Cake of meal, he wholesome, firm, and strengthening: Vatapi, grow thou fat thereby. 11 O Food, from thee as such have we drawn forth with lauds, like cows, our sacrificial gifts,

2 Giver of vital breath, of power and vigour, he whose commandments all the Gods acknowledge −. 3 Who by his grandeur hath become Sole Ruler of all the moving world that breathes and slumbers; 4 His, through his might, are these snow−covered mountains, and men call sea and Rasa his possession: 5 By him the heavens are strong and earth is stedfast, by him light's realm and sky−vault are supported: 6 To him, supported by his help, two armies embattled look while trembling in their spirit, 7 What time the mighty waters came, containing the universal germ, producing Agni, 8 He in his might surveyed the floods containing productive force and generating Worship. 9 Neer may he harm us who is earth's Begetter, nor he whose laws are sure, the heavens' Creator, 10 Prajapati! thou only comprehendest all these created things, and none beside thee.

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 Let us declare aloud the name of Ghrta, and at this sacrifice hold it up with homage. 3 Four are his horns, three are the feet that bear him; his heads are two, his hands are seven in number. 4 That oil in triple shape the Gods discovered laid down within the Cow, concealed by Panis. 5 From inmost reservoir in countless channels flow down these rivers which the foe beholds not. 6 Like rivers our libations flow together, cleansing themselves in inmost heart and spirit. 7 As rushing down the rapids of a river, flow swifter than the wind the vigorous currents, 9 As maidens dock themselves with gay adornment to join the bridal feast, I now behold them. 10 Send to our eulogy a herd of cattle bestow upon us excellent possessions. 11 The universe depends upon thy power and might within the sea, within the heart, within all life.

2 Agni, Eternal Father, offering− bearer, fair to behold, far−reaching, far−refulgent, 3 The Sage of men, the Lord of human races, pure, purifying Agni, balmed with butter, 4 Agni, enjoy, of one accord with Ila, striving in rivalry with beams of Sarya, 5 As dear House−Friend, guest welcome in the dwelling, to this our sacrifice come thou who knowest. 6 Drive thou away the Dasyu with thy weapon. As, gaining vital power for thine own body, 7 May we, O Agni, with our lauds adore thee, and with our gifts, fair−beaming Purifier! 8 Son of Strength, Agni, dweller in three regions, accept our sacrifice and our oblation. 9 Over all woes and dangers, Jatavedas, bear us as in a boat across a river. 10 As I, remembering thee with grateful spirit, a mortal, call with might on thee Immortal, 11 The pious man, O Jatavedas Agni, to whom thou grantest ample room and pleasure,

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

2 May the most sapient Maruts, with protection, with best boons brought from lofty heaven, approach us, 3 Close to them clings one moving in seclusion, like a man's wife, like a spear carried rearward, 4 Far off the brilliant, never−weary Maruts cling to the young Maid as a joint possession. 5 When chose immortal Rodasi to follow− she with loose tresses and heroic spirit− 6 Upon their car the young men set the Maiden wedded to glory, mighty in assemblies, 7 I will declare the greatness of these Maruts, their real greatness, worthy to be lauded, 8 Mitra and Varuna they guard from censure: Aryaman too, discovers worthless sinners Firm things are 9 None of us, Maruts, near or at a distance, hath ever reached the limit of your vigour. 10 May we this day be dearest friends of Indra, and let us call on him in fight to−morrow. 11 May this your laud, may this your song, O Maruts, sung by the poet, Mana's

2 May the auspicious favour of the Gods be ours, on us descend the bounty of the righteous Gods. 3 We call them hither with a hymn of olden time, Bhaga, the friendly Daksa, Mitra, Aditi, 4 May the Wind waft to us that pleasant medicine, may Earth our Mother give it, and our Father Heaven, 5 Him we invoke for aid who reigns supreme, the Lord of all that stands or moves, inspirer of the soul, 6 Illustrious far and wide, may Indra prosper us: may Pusan prosper us, the Master of all wealth. 7 The Maruts, Sons of Prani, borne by spotted steeds, moving in glory, oft visiting holy rites, 8 Gods, may we with our ears listen to what is good, and with our eyes see what is good, ye Holy Ones. 9 A hundred autumns stand before us, O ye Gods, within whose space ye bring our bodies to decay; 10 Aditi is the heaven, Aditi is mid−air, Aditi is the Mother and the Sire and Son.

2 What genuine and most liberal draught will spirit thee with juice to burst 3 Do thou who art Protector of us thy friends who praise thee 4 Like as a courser's circling wheel, so turn thee hitherward to us, 5 Thou seekest as it were thine own stations with swift descent of powers: 6 What time thy courage and his wheels together, Indra, run their course 7 So even, Lord of Power and Might, the people call thee Maghavan, 8 And verily to him who toils and presses Soma juice for thee 9 No, not a hundred hinderers can check thy gracious bounty's flow, 10 May thine assistance keep us safe, thy hundred and thy thousand aids: 11 Do thou elect us this place for friendship and prosperity, 12 Favour us, Indra, evermore with overflowing store of wealth: 13 With new protections, Indra, like an archer, open thou forus 14 Our chariot, Indra, boldly moves endued with splendour, ne'er repulsed, 15 O Surya, make our fame to be most excellent among the Gods,

1 'Through many autumns have I toiled and laboured, at night and morn, through age−inducing dawnings. 2 For even the men aforetime, law−fulfillers, who with the Gods declared eternal statutes,−− 3 Non inutilis est labor cui Dii favent: nos omnes aemulos et aemulas vincamus. 4 Cupido me cepit illius tauri [viri] qui me despicit, utrum hinc utrum illinc ab aliqua parte nata sit. 5 This Soma I address that is most near us, that which hath been imbibed within the spirit, 6 Agastya thus, toiling with strong endeavour, wishing for children, progeny and. power, 5 Membrum suum virile, quod vrotentum fuerat, mas ille retraxit. Rursus illud quod in juvenem filiam 6 Quum jam in medio connessu, semiperfecto opere, amorem in puellam pater impleverat, ambo disceden 7 Quum pater suam nilam adiverat, cum ed congressus suum semen supra wrrarn effudit. Tum Dii benigni 8 Ille tauro similis spumam in certamine jactavit, tunc discedens pusillaximis huc profectus est. Quasi dex 9 'The fire, burning the people, does not approach quickly (by day): the naked (Rakasas approach) not Ag

2 Directed unto thee my spirit never strays, for I have set my hopes on thee, O Much−invoked! 3 From indigence and hunger Indra turns away: Maghavan hath dominion over precious wealth. 4 As on the fair−leafed tree rest birds, to Indra flow the gladdening Soma juices that the bowls contain. 5 As in the game a gambler piles his winnings, so Maghavan, sweeping all together, gained the Sun 6 Maghavan came by turns to all the tribes of men: the Steer took notice of the people's songs of praise. 7 When Soma streams together unto Indra flow like waters to the river, rivulets to the lake, 8 He rushes through the region like a furious Bull, he who hath made these floods the dames of worthy lor 9 Let the keen axe come forth together with the light: here be,.as erst, the teeming cow of sacrifice. 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 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 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 Assemble, speak together: let your minds be all of one accord, 3 The place is common, common the assembly, common the mind, so be their thought united. 4 One and the same bt your resolve, and be your minds of one accord. 1 'Through many autumns have I toiled and laboured, at night and morn, through age−inducing dawnings. 2 For even the men aforetime, law−fulfillers, who with the Gods declared eternal statutes,−− 3 Non inutilis est labor cui Dii favent: nos omnes aemulos et aemulas vincamus. 4 Cupido me cepit illius tauri [viri] qui me despicit, utrum hinc utrum illinc ab aliqua parte nata sit. 5 This Soma I address that is most near us, that which hath been imbibed within the spirit, 6 Agastya thus, toiling with strong endeavour, wishing for children, progeny and. power, 5 Membrum suum virile, quod vrotentum fuerat, mas ille retraxit. Rursus illud quod in juvenem filiam 6 Quum jam in medio connessu, semiperfecto opere, amorem in puellam pater impleverat, ambo disceden 7 Quum pater suam nilam adiverat, cum ed congressus suum semen supra wrrarn effudit. Tum Dii benigni 8 Ille tauro similis spumam in certamine jactavit, tunc discedens pusillaximis huc profectus est.

2 Let the Bull sing with Bulls whose toil is worship, with a loud roar like some wild beast that hungers. 3 May the Priest come circling the measured stations, and with him bring the earth's autumnal fruitage. 4 To him we offer welcomest oblations, the pious bring their strength−inspiring praises. 5 Praise thou that Indra who is truly mighty, the car−borne Warrior, Maghavan the Hero; 6 Him who surpasses heroes in his greatness: the earth and heavens suffice not for his girdles. 7 Thee, Hero, guardian of the brave in battles, who roamest in the van,−to draw thee hither, 8 Libations in the sea to thee are pleasant, when thy divine Floods come to cheer these people. 9 So may we in this One be well befriended, well aided as it were through praise of chieftains, 10 Like men in rivalry extolling princes, our Friend be Indra, wielder of the thunder. 11 For every sacrifice makes Indra stronger, yea, when he goes around angry in spirit; 12 Let us not here contend with Gods, O Indra, for here, O Mighty One, is thine own portion, 13 Addressed to thee is this our praise, O Indra: Lord of Bay Steeds, find us hereby advancement.

2 May this my truthful speech guard me on every side wherever heaven and earth and days are spread abr 3 No godless man from time remotest draws thee down when thou art driving forth with winged dappled 4 O Surya, with the light whereby thou scatterest gloom, and with thy ray impellest every moving thing, 5 Sent forth thou guardest well the Universe's law, and in thy wonted way arisest free from wrath. 6 This invocation, these our words may Heaven and Earth, and Indra and the Waters and the Maruts hear. 7 Cheerful in spirit, evermore, and keen of sight, with store of children, free from sickness and from sin, 8 Surya, may we live long and look upon thee still, thee, O Far−seeing One, bringing the glorious light, 9 Thou by whose lustre all the world of life comes forth, and by thy beams again returns unto its rest, 10 Bless us with shine, bless us with perfect daylight, bless us with cold, with fervent heat and lustre. 11 Gods, to our living creatures of both kinds vouchsafe protection, both to bipeds and to quadrupeds, 12 If by some grievous sin we have provoked the Gods, O Deities, with the tongue or thoughtlessness of

Many−named with this same thought that longs for milk, 18 Much−honoured by libations, may the Vrtra−slayer wake for us: 19 O Hero, with that aid dost thou delight us, with what succour bring 20 With whose libation joys the Strong, the Hero with his team who quells 21 Rejoicing in thy spirit bring thousandfold opulence to us: 22 These juices with their wedded wives flow to enjoyment lovingly: 23 Presented strengthening gifts have sent Indra away at sacrifice, 24 These two who share his feast, Bay Steeds with golden manes, shall bring him to 25 For thee, O Lord of Light, are shed these Soma−drops, and grass is strewn 26 May Indra give thee skill, and lights of heaven, wealth to his votary 27 O Satakratu, wondrous strength and all our lauds I bring to thee: 28 Bring to us all things excellent, O Satakratu, food and strength: 30 Bearing the Soma juice we call, best Vrtra−slayer, unto thee: 31 Come, Lord of rapturous, joys, to our libation with thy Bay Steeds, come 32 Known as best Vrtra−slayer erst, as Indra Satakratu, come 33 O Vrtra−slayer, thou art he who drinks these drops of Soma: come 34 May Indra give, to aid us, wealth handy that rules the Skilful Ones:

2 When thou hast made him ready, Jatavedas, then do thou give him over to the Fathers. 3 The Sun receive thine eye, tne Wind thy spirit; go, as thy merit is, to earth or heaven. 4 Thy portion is the goat: with heat consume him: let thy fierce flame, thy glowing splendour, burn him 5 Again, O Agni, to the Fathers send him who, offered in thee, goes with our oblations. 6 What wound soe'er the dark bird hath inflicted, the emmet, or the serpent, or the jackal, 7 Shield thee with flesh against the flames of Agni, encompass thee about with fat and marrow, 8 Forbear, O Agni, to upset this ladle: the Gods and they who merit Soma love it. 9 1 send afar flesh eating Agni, bearing off stains may he depart to Yama's subjects. 10 I choose as God for Father−worship Agni, flesh−eater, who hath past within your dwelling, 11 With offerings meet let Agni bring the Fathers who support the Law. 12 Right gladly would we set thee down, right gladly make thee burn and glow. 13 Cool, Agni, and again refresh the spot which thou hast scorched and burnt. 14 O full of coolness, thou cool Plant, full of fresh moisture, freshening Herb,

1 Ye who observe this day be with us even thrice: far−stretching is you bounty, Asvins and your course. 2 Three are the fellies in your honey−bearing car, that travels after Soma's loved one, as all know. 3 Thrice in the self−same day, ye Gods who banish want, sprinkle ye thrice to−day our sacrifice with mea 4 Thrice come ye to our home, thrice to the righteous folk, thrice triply aid the man who well deserves yo 5 Thrice, O ye Asvins, bring to us abundant wealth: thrice in the Gods' assembly, thrice assist our thought 6 Thrice, Asvins, grant to us the heavenly medicines, thrice those of earth and thrice those that the waters 7 Thrice are ye to be worshipped day by day by us: thrice, O ye Asvins, ye travel around the earth. 8 Thrice, O ye Asvins, with the Seven Mother Streams; three are the jars, the triple offering is prepared. 9 Where are the three wheels of your triple chariot, where are the three seats thereto firmly fastened? 10 Nasatyas, come: the sacred gift is offered up; drink the sweet juice with lips that know the sweetness w 11 Come, O Nasatyas, with the thrice−eleven Gods; come, O ye Asvins, to the drinking of the meath. 12 Borne in your triple car, O Asvins, bring us present prosperity with noble offspring.

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 Sakra protects from woe the man who gives him sacrificial cake. 3 His chariot shall be glorious, sped by Gods, and mighty shall he be, 4 Each day that passes, in his house flows his libation, rich in milk, 5 O Gods, with constant draught of milk, husband and wife with one accord 6 They gain sufficient food: they come united to the sacred grass, 7 Never do they deny or seek to hide the favour of the Gods: 8 With sons and daughters by their side they reach their full extent of life, 9 Serving the Immortal One with gifts of sacrificial meal and wealth, 10 We claim protection from the Hills, we claim protection of the Floods, 11 May Pusan come, and Bhaga, Lord of wealth, All−bounteous, for our weal 12 Aramati, and, free from foes, Visva with spirit of a God, 13 Seeing that Mitra, Aryaman, and Varuna are guarding us, 14 I glorify with song, for wealth, Agni the God, the first of you. 15 As in all frays the hero, so swift moves his car whom Gods attend. 16 Ne'er are ye injured, worshipper, presser of juice, or pious man. 17 None in his action equals him, none holds him far or keeps him off. 18 Such strength of heroes shall be his, such mastery of fleet−foot steeds.

2 I have beheld his strong and secret dwelling, longing have sought the Founder's habitation. 3 We will tell, Indra, when we pour libation, what mighty deeds thou hast performed to please us. 4 Indra, when born, thou madest firm thy spirit: alone thou seekest war to fight with many. 5 When thou wast born supremest at a distance, bearing a name renowned in far−off regions, 6 These blissful Maruts sing their psalm to praise thee, and pour to thee libation of the Soma. 7 Thou, Maghavan, from the first didst scatter foemen, speeding, while joying in the milk, the Giver. 8 Pounding the head of Namuci the Dasa, me, too thou madest thine associate, Indra! 9 Women for weapons hath the Dasa taken, What injury can his feeble armies To me? 10 Divided from their calves the Cows went lowing around, on every side, hither and thither. 11 What time the Somas mixed by Babhru cheered him, loud the Steer bellowed in his habitations. 12 This good deed have the Rusamas done, Agni! that they have granted me four thousand cattle. 13 The Rusamas, O Agni, sent me homeward with fair adornment and with kine in thousands. 14 Night, well−nigh ended, at Rnancaya's coming, King of the Rusamas, was changed to morning. 15 We have received four thousand head of cattle presented by the Rusamas, O Agni.

2 Tlou shalt be Aditi as thou hast entered within, appeaser of celestial anger. 3 We have drunk Soma and become immortal; we have attained the light, the Gods discovered. 4 Absorbed into the heart, be sweet, O Indu, as a kind father to his son, O Soma, 5 These glorious drops that give me freedom have I drunk. Closely they knit my joints as straps secure a c 6 Make me shine bright like fire produced by friction: give us a clearer sight and make us better. 7 May we enjoy with an enlivened spirit the juice thou givest, like ancestral riches. 8 King Soma, favour us and make us prosper: we are thy devotees; of this be mindful. 9 For thou hast settled in each joint, O Soma, aim of men's eyes and guardian of our bodies. 10 May I be with the Friend whose heart is tender, who, Lord of Bays! when quaffed will never harm me 11 Our maladies have lost their strength and vanished: they feared, and passed away into the darkness. 13 Associate with the Fathers thou, O Soma, hast spread thyself abroad through earth and heaven. 14 Give us your blessing, O ye Gods' preservers. Never may sleep or idle talk control us. 15 On all sides,. Soma, thou art our life−giver: aim of all eyes, light−finder, come within us.

1 WHO now is he, what God among Immortals, of whose auspicious name we may bethink us? 2 Agni the God the first among the Immortals, − of his auspicious name let us bethink us. 3 To thee, O Savitar, the Lord of precious things, who helpest us 4 Wealth, highly lauded ere reproach hath fallen on it, which is laid, 5 Through thy protection may we come to even the height of affluence 6 Ne'er have those birds that fly through air attained to thy high dominion or thy might or spirit; 7 Varuna, King, of hallowed might, sustaineth erect the Tree's stem in the baseless region. 8 King Varuna hath made a spacious pathway, a pathway for the Sun wherein to travel. 9 A hundred balms are thine, O King, a thousand; deep and wide−reaching also be thy favours. 10 Whither by day depart the constellations that shine at night, set high in heaven above us? 11 I ask this of thee with my prayer adoring; thy worshipper craves this with his oblation. 12 Nightly and daily this one thing they tell me, this too the thought of mine own heart repeateth. 13 Bound to three pillars captured Sunahsepa thus to the Aditya made his supplication. 14 With bending down, oblations, sacrifices, O Varuna, we deprecate thine anger: 15 Loosen the bonds, O Varuna, that hold me, loosen the bonds above, between, and under.

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,