Rig Veda on Speech

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

2 Mark this my speech, Divine One, thou, Most Youthful! offered to thee by him who gives most freely. 3 Thy guardian rays, O Agni, when they saw him, preserved blind Mamateya from affliction. 4 The sinful man who worships not, O Agni, who, offering not, harms us with double−dealing,− 5 Yea, when a mortal knowingly, O Victor, injures with double tongue a fellow−mortal,

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

2 Best Priest, he hath been won by being seated, for he hath looked on the well−ordered viands. 3 Now hath he made the feast of Gods effective: now have we found the secret tongue of worship. 4 This prelude of my speech I now will utter, whereby we Gods may quell our Asura foemen. 5 May the Five Tribes be pleased with mine oblation, and the Cow's Sons and all who merit worship. 6 Spinning the thread, follow the region's splendid light: guard thou the path ways well which wisdom hat 7 Lovers of Soma, bind the chariot traces fast: set ye the reins in order and embellish them. 8 Here flows Asmanvati: hold fast each other, keep yourselves up, and pass, my friends, the river. 9 Tvastar, most deft of workmen, knew each magic art, bringing most blessed bowls that hold the drink of 10 Now, O ye Sapient Ones, make ye the axes sharp wherewith ye fashion bowls to hold the Amrta. 11 Ye with a secret tongue and dark intention laid the maiden deep within, the calf within the mouth.

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

1 NE'ER is he injured whom the Gods Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, 2 He prospers ever, free from scathe, whom they, as with full hands, enrich, 3 The Kings drive far away from him his troubles and his enemies, 4 Thornless, Adityas, is the path, easy for him who seeks the Law: 5 What sacrifice, Adityas, ye Heroes guide by the path direct,− 6 That mortal, ever unsubdued, gains wealth and every precious thing, 7 How, my friends, shall we prepare Aryaman's and Mitra's laud, 8 I point not out to you a man who strikes the pious, or reviles: 9 Let him not love to speak ill words: but fear the One who holds all four

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.

1 AGNI, well−kindled, bring the Gods for him who offers holy gifts. 2 Son of Thyself, present, O Sage, our sacrifice to the Gods today. 3 Dear Narasamsa, sweet of tongue, the giver of oblations, I 4 Agni, on thy most easy car, glorified, hither bring the Gods: 5 Strew, O ye wise, the sacred grass that drips with oil, in order due, 6 Thrown open be the Doors Divine, unfailing, that assist the rite, 7 I call the lovely Night and Dawn to seat them on the holy grass 8 The two Invokers I invite, the wise, divine and sweet of tongue, 9 Ila, Sarasvati, Mahi, three Goddesses who bring delight, 10 Tvastar I call, the earliest born, the wearer of all forms at will: 11 God, Sovran of the Wood, present this our oblation to the Gods, 12 With Svaha. pay the sacrifice to Indra in the offerer's house: 1 To drink the Soma, Agni, come, to our service and our songs. 2 The Kanvas have invoked thee; they, O Singer, sing thee songs of praise 3 Indra, Vayu, Brhaspati, Mitra, Agni, Pusan, Bhaga, 4 For you these juices are poured forth that gladden and exhilarate, 5 The sons of Kanva fain for help adore thee, having strewn the grass, 6 Let the swift steeds who carry thee, thought−yoked and dropping holy oil, 7 Adored, the strengtheners of Law, unite them, Agni, with their Dames: 8 Let them, O Agni, who deserve worship and praise drink with thy tongue 9 Away, from the Sun's realm of light, the wise invoking Priest shall bring 10 With all the Gods, with Indra, with Vayu, and Mitra's splendours, drink, 11 Ordained by Manu as our Priest, thou sittest, Agni, at each rite: 12 Harness the Red Mares to thy car, the Bays, O God, the flaming ones:

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

2 Thus be ye lauded, ye destroyers of the foe, ye Three−and−Thirty Deities, 3 As such defend and succour us, with benedictions speak to us: 4 Ye Deities who stay with us, and all ye Gods of all mankind,

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

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

2 Reproach not him who, God and selfreliant, vouchsafed this bounty unto me a mortal,− 3 Sharp−pointed, powerful, strong, of boundless vigour, Agni who knows the lofty hymn, kept secret 4 May he with sharpened teeth, the Bounteous Giver, Agni, consume with flame most fiercely glowing. 5 Like youthful women without brothers, straying, like dames who hate their lords, of evil conduct, 6 To me, weak, innocent, thou, luminous Agni, bast boldly given as 'twere a heavy burthen, 7 So may our song that purifies, through wisdom reach in a moment him the Universal, 8 Of this my speech what shall I utter further? They indicate the milk stored up in secret 9 This is the Great Ones' mighty apparition which from of old the radiant Cow hath followed. 10 He then who shone together with his Parents remembered Prsni's fair and secret treasure, 11 With reverence I declare the Law, O Agni; what is, comes by thine order, Jatavedas. 12 What is our wealth therefrom, and what our treasure? Tell us O Jatavedas, for thou 13 What is the limit, what the rules, the guerdon? Like fleet−foot coursers speed we to the contest. 14 Unsatisfied, with speech devoid of vigour, scanty and frivolous and inconclusive,

2 Honoured with sacrifice or with the worship of the sages' hymns, 3 Yea, the strong man to whom ye have vouchsafed to give a sage, shall move 4 Upon this hero's sacred grass Soma is poured in daily rites: 5 Let the strong Maruts hear him, him surpassing all men: strength be his 6 For, through the swift Gods' loving help, in many an autumn, Maruts, we 7 Fortunate shall that mortal be, O Maruts most adorable, 8 O Heroes truly strong, ye know the toil of him who sings your praise, 9 O ye of true strength, make this thing manifest by your greatness − strike 10 Conceal the horrid darkness, drive far from us each devouring fiend. 2 When, Maruts, on the steeps ye pile the moving cloud, ye are like birds on whatsoever path it be. 3 Earth at their racings trembles as if weak and worn, when on their ways they yoke their cars for victory. 4 Self−moving is that youthful band, with spotted steeds; thus it hath lordly sway, endued with power and 5 We speak by our descent from our primeval Sire; our tongue, when we behold the Soma, stirs itself. 6 Splendours they gained for glory, they who wear bright rings; rays they obtained, and men to celebrate t

3 Parjanya is the Father of the Mighty Bird: on mountains, in earth's centre hath he made his home. 4 Thou givest pleasure as a wife delights her lord. Listen, O Child of Pajri, for to thee I speak. 5 As to the men of old thou camest, Indu unharmed, to strengthen, winning hundreds, thousands,

2 They speak out like a hundred, like a thousand men: they cry aloud to us with their green−tinted mouths 3 Loudly they speak, for they have found the savoury meath: they make a humming sound over the meat 4 They cry aloud, with strong exhilarating drink, calling on Indra now, for they have found the meath. 5 The Eagles have sent forth their cry aloft in heaven; in the sky's vault the dark impetuous ones have dan 6 Like strong ones drawing, they have put forth all their strength: the Bulls, harnessed together, bear the 7 To these who have ten workers and a tenfold girth, to these who have ten yoke−straps and ten binding 8 These Stones with ten conductors, rapid in their course, with lovely revolution travel round and round. 9 These Soma−eaters kiss Indra's Bay−coloured Steeds: draining. the stalk they sit upon the ox's hide. 11 Bored deep, but not pierced through with holes, are ye, O Stones, not loosened, never weary, and exem 12 Your fathers, verily, stand firm from age to age: they, loving rest, are not dissevered from their seat. 13 This, this the Stones proclaim, what time they are disjoined, and when with ringing sounds they move 14 They have raised high their voice for juice, for sacrifice, striking the Mother earth as though they danc

2 These, leading God, are thine, and these here ready to speak after us. 3 So further honour as our guests the Hero Gods and then the Dames. 4 Where fire is set, and swiftly runs the victim dwelling in the trough, 5 May these thy riches, Leader God! that rule the car, be blest to us,

2 When, rising, to the sacrifice we hasten, awaking Dadhikras with adorations. 3 While I am thus arousing Dadhikravan I speak to Agni, Earth, and Dawn, and Surya, 4 Foremost is Dadhikravan, vigorous courser; in forefront of the cars, his way he knoweth, 5 May Dadhikras prepare the way we travel that we may pass along the path of Order.

2 He, excellent in glory, guest in every house, finds like a swift−winged bird a home in every tree. 3 Most sage with insight, passing skilful with thy powers art thou, O Agni, wise with wisdom, knowing al 4 Foreknowing well, O Agni, thou in Ila's place hast occupied thy regular station balmed with oil. 5 Thy glories are, as lightnings from the rainy cloud, marked, many−hued, like heralds of the Dawns' 6 Him, duly coming as their germ, have plants received: this Agni have maternal Waters brought to life. 7 When, sped and urged by wind, thou spreadest thee abroad, swift piercing through thy food according to 8 Agni, the Hotar−priest who fills the assembly full, Waker of knowledge, chief Controller of the thought, 9 Here, Api, the arrangers, those attached to thee, elect thee as their Priest in sacred gatherings, 10 Thine is the Herald's task and Cleanser's duly timed; Leader art thou, and Kindler for the pious man. 11 When mortal man presents to thee Immortal God, Agni, his fuel or his sacrificial gift, 12 From us these hymns in concert have gone forth to him, these. holy words, these Rcas, songs and eulo 13 This newest eulogy will I speak forth to him, the Ancient One who loves it. May he hear our voice. 14 He in whom horses, bulls, oxen, and barren cows, and rams, when duly set apart, are offered up,− 15 Into thy mouth is poured the offering, Agni, as Soma into cup, oil into ladle.

2 O Indu, swayer of the sea, shaker of all things, flow thou on, 3 With thee for Hero, Valiant One! may we subdue our enemies: 4 Indu arouses strength the Sage who strives for victory, winning power, 5 Mover of speech, we robe him with our songs as he is purified 6 On whose way, Lord of Holy Law, most richi as he is purified.

2 With stream of sacrifice the brown bright drops have flowed with strength in store 3 To Indra, Vayu, Varuna, to Visnu, and the Maruts, flow 4 Three several words are uttered: kine are ]owing, cows who give their milk: 5 The young and sacred mothers of the holy rite have uttered praise: 6 From every side, O Soma, for our profit, pour thou forth four seas

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

2 The Speaker, unassailable Master of this hymn, the Tongue of sacrifice pours forth the pleasant meath. 3 Sending forth flashes he hath bellowed to the jars, led by the men into the golden reservoir. 4 Pressed by the stones, with hymns, and graciously inclined, illuminating both the Parents, Heaven and 5 Flow onward, Soma, flow to bring prosperity: cleansed by the men, invest thee with the milky draught.

2 Lord of Bay Steeds, fair−helmed, rejoice thee: this we crave. Here the disposers wait on thee. 3 Turning, as 'twere, to meet the Sun, enjoy from Indra all good things. 4 Praise him who sends us wealth, whose bounties injure none: good are the gifts which Indra. grants. 5 Thou in thy battles, Indra, art subduer of all hostile bands. 6 The Earth and Heaven clung close to thy victorious might as to their calf two mother−cows. 7 Bring to your aid the Eternal One, who shoots and none may shoot at him, 8 Arranger of things unarranged, e'en Satakratu, source of might, 2 The food of meath in foremost place I give thee, thy Soma shall be pressed, thy share appointed. 3 Striving for strength bring forth a laud to Indra, a truthful hymn if he in truth existeth. 4 Here am I, look upon me here, O singer. All that existeth 1 surpass in greatness. 5 When the Law's lovers mounted and ap. proached me as 1 sate lone upon the dear sky's summit. 6 All these thy deeds must be declared at Soma−feasts, wrought, Indra, Bounteous Lord, for him who she 7 Now run ye forth your several ways: he is not here who kept you back. 8 On−rushing with the speed of thought within the iron fort he pressed: 9 Deep in the ocean lies the bolt with waters compassed round about, 10 When, uttering words which no one comprehended, Vak, Queen of Gods, the Gladdener, was seated, 11 The Deities generated Vak the Goddess, and animals of every figure speak her. 12 Step forth with wider stride, my comrade Visnu; make room, Dyaus, for the leaping of the lightning.

2 O'er all the region with their uniform advance these have spread out the lore that giveth heroes strength. 3 With pressing−stones and with the bright beams of the day he hurls his broadest bolt against the Guilefu 4 I, to enjoy the beauty of his form, behold that rapid rush of his as 'twere an axe's edge, 5 Four−faced and nobly clad, Varuna, urging on the pious to his task, stirs himself with the tongue.

2 May Mitra, Varuna, Aryaman, and Ayu, Indra Rbhuksan, and the Maruts, love us, 3 You will I call to feed the car−horse, Asvins, with the wind's flight swiftest of those who travel: 4 The heavenly Victor, he whose priest is Kanva, Trta with Dyaus accordant, Vata, Agni, 5 Bring ye your riches forward borne on horses: let thought be framed for help and gain of treasure. 6 Bring hither him who yokes the car, your Vayu, who praises with his songs, the God and Singer; 7 I speed to you with powers that should be honoured, with songs distinguishing Heaven's mighty Daught 8 You I extol, the nourishers of heroes bringing you gifts, Vastospati and Tvastar− 9 Ours be the Parvatas, even they, for offspring, free−moving, who are Heroes like the Vasus. 10 Trta praised him, germ of the earthly hero, with pure songs him the Offspring of the Waters. 11 How shall we speak to the great might of Rudra? How speak to Bhaga who takes thought for riches? 12 May the swift Wanderer, Lord of refreshments listen to our songs, who speeds throuih cloudy heaven: 13 We know your ways, ye Mighty Ones receiving choice meed, ye Wonderful, we will proclaim it. 14 Celestial and terrestrial generations, and Waters will I summon to the feasting. 15 Duly to each one hath my laud been offered. Strong be Varutri with her powers to succour. 16 How may we serve the Liberal Ones with worship, the Maruts swift of course in invocation, the Marut 17 Thus thinking, O ye Gods, the mortal wins you to give him increase of his herds of cattle: the mortal w 18 O Gods, may we obtain from you this favour, strengthening food through the Cow's praise, ye Vasus. 19 May Ila, Mother of the herds of cattle, and Urvasi with all the streams accept us;

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

2 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.

2 Both Gods and men obey this Ruler's order, Gods who are worshipped, men who yearn and worship. 3 May our fair praise, heart−born, most recent, reach him whose tongue, e'en at his birth, is sweet as hone 4 Good to mankind, the yearning Purifier hath among men been placed as Priest choice−worthy. 5 As such we Gotamas with hymns extol thee, O Agni, as the guardian Lord of riches, 1 EVEN to him, swift, strong and high. exalted, I bring my song of praise as dainty viands, 2 Praise, like oblation, I present, and utter aloud my song, my fair hymn to the Victor. 3 To him then with my lips mine adoration, winning heaven's light, most excellent, I offer, 4 Even for him I frame a laud, as fashions the wright a chariot for the man who needs it,− 5 So with my tongue I deck, to please that Indra, my hymn, as 'twere a horse, through love of glory, 6 Even for him hath Tvastar forged the thunder, most deftly wrought, celestial, for the battle, 7 As soon as, at libations of his mother, great Visnu had drunk up the draught, he plundered. 8 To him, to Indra, when he slew the Dragon, the Dames, too, Consorts of the Goda, wove praises. 9 Yea, of a truth, his magnitude surpasseth the magnitude of earth, mid−air, and heaven. 10 Through his own strength Indra with bolt of thunder cut piece−meal Vrtra, drier up of waters. 11 The rivers played, through his impetuous splendour, since with his bolt he compassed them on all sides 12 Vast, with thine ample power, with eager movement, against this Vrtra cast thy bolt of thunder. 13 Sing with new lauds his exploits wrought aforetime, the deeds of him, yea, him who moveth swiftly, 14 When he, yea, he, comes forth the firm. Set mountains and the whole heaven and earth, tremble for terr 15 Now unto him of these things hath been given what he who rules alone o'er much, electeth. 16 Thus to thee, Indra, yoker of Bay Coursers, the Gotamas have brought their prayers to please thee.

2 Indra and Soma, let sin round the wicked boil like as a caldron set amid the flames of fire. 3 Indra and Soma, plunge the wicked in the depth, yea, cast them into darkness that hath no support, 4 Indra and Soma, hurl your deadly crushing bolt down on the wicked fiend from heaven and from the ear 5 Indra and Soma, cast ye downward out of heaven your deadly darts of stone burning with fiery flame, 6 Indra and Soma, let this hymn control you both, even as the girth encompasses two vigorous steeds− 7 In your impetuous manner think ye both thereon: destroy these evil beings, slay the treacherous fiends. 8 Whoso accuses me with words of falsehood when I pursue my way with guileless spirit, 9 Those who destroy, as is their wont, the simple, and with their evil natures barm the righteous, 10 The fiend, O Agni, who designs to injure the essence of our food, kine, steeds, or bodies, 11 May he be swept away, himself and children: may all the three earths press him down beneath them. 12 The prudent finds it easy to distinguish the true and false: their words oppose each other. 13 Never doth Soma aid and guide the wicked or him who falsely claims the Warrior's title. 14 As if I worshipped deities of falsehood, or thought vain thoughts about the Gods, O Agni. 15 So may I die this day if I have harassed any man's life or if I be a demon. 16 May Indra slay him with a mi weapon, and let the vilest ofghty 17 She too who wanders like an owl at night−time, hiding her body in her guile and malice, 18 Spread out, ye Maruts, search among the people: seize ye and grind the Raksasas to pieces, 19 Hurl down from heaven thy bolt of stone, O Indra: sharpen it, Maghavan, made keen by Soma. 20 They fly, the demon dogs, and, bent on mischief, fain would they harm indomitable Indra. 21 Indra hath ever been the fiends' destroyer who spoil oblations of the Gods' invokers: 22 Destroy the fiend shaped like an owl or owlet, destroy him in the form of dog or cuckoo.

2 White−hued and thundering he dwells in splendour, Most Youthful, with the loudvoiced and eternal− 3 Incited by the wind thy flames, O Agni, move onward, Pure One! pure, in all directions. 4 Thy pure white horses from their bonds are loosened: O Radiant One, they shear the ground beneath the 5 Forth darts the Bull's tongue like the sharp stone weapon discharged by him who fights to win the cattle. 6 Thou with the sunlight of the great Impeller hast boldly over−spread the earth's expanses. 7 Wondrous! of wondrous power! give to the singer wealth wondrous, marked, most wonderful, life−givi

2 The ribs that compass me give pain and trouble me like rival wives. 3 As rats eat weavers' threads, cares are consuming me, thy singer, gatakratu, me. 4 I the priests' Rsi chose as prince most liberal Kurusravana, 5 Whose three bays harnessed to the car bear me straight onward: I will laud 6 The sire of Upamasravas, even him whose words were passing sweet, 7 Mark, Upamasravas, his son, mark, grandson of Mitratithi: 8 If I controlled Immortal Gods, yea, even were I Lord of men, 9 None lives, even had he hundred lives, beyond the statute of the Gods

2 What was the place whereon he took his station? What was it that supported him? How was it? 3 He who hath eyes on all sides round about him, a mouth on all sides, arms and feet on all sides, 4 What was the tree, what wood in sooth produced it, from which they fashioned out the earth and heaven 5 Nine highest, lowest, sacrificial natures, and these thy mid−most here, O Visvakarman, 6 Bring thou thyself, exalted with oblation, O Visvakarman, Earth and Heaven to worship. 7 Let us invoke to−day, to aid our labour, the Lord of Speech, the thought−swift Visvakarman.

2 His eyes are turned away, his head is hidden: unsated with his tongue he eats the fuel. 3 Seeking, as 'twere, his Mother's secret bosom, he, like a child, creeps on through wide−spread bushes. 4 This holy Law I tell you, Earth and Heaven: the Infant at his birth dovours his Parents. 5 This man who quickly gives him food, who offers his gifts of oil and butter and supports him, − 6 Agni, hast thou committed sin or treason among the Gods? In ignorance I ask thee. 7 He born in wood hath yoked his horses rushing in all directions, held with reins that glitter.

2 Agni, burn down the word within their bodies through our newest speech, 3 Agni, I offer hymns to thee, like holy oil within thy moutlh. 4 Agni bestows all vital power even as each man supplicates. 5 Agni hath made himself renowned by wonderful victorious act. 6 Agni knows all that springs from Gods, he knows the mystery of men. 7 Agni inhabiteth with Gods and men who offer sacrifice. 8 Agni who liveth in all streams, Lord of the Sevenfold Race of men, 9 Agni the Wise inhabiteth three gathering−places, triply formed. 10 Our Agni, thou art first among the Gods, and first mid living men.

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,

4 Self−yoked they have descended lightly from the sky. With your own lash, Immortals, urge yourselve's 5 Who among you, O Maruts armed with lightning−spears, moveth you by himself, as with the tongue his 6 Say where, then, is this mighty region's farthest bound, where, Maruts, is the lowest depth that ye have 7 Your winning is with strength, dazzling, with heavenly light, with fruit mature, O Maruts, fall of 8 The rivers roar before your chariot fellies when they are uttering the voice of rain−clouds. 9 Prani brought forth, to fight the mighty battle, the glittering army of the restless Maruts. 10 May this your laud, may this your song O Maruts, sung by the poet Mana's son,

1 THE pleasant Priest is come into the synod, true, skilled in sacrifice, most wise, Ordainer. 2 To thee I offer reverent speech: accept it: to thee who markest it, victorious, faithful! 3 The Two who show their vigour, Night and Morning, by the wind's paths shall haste to thee O Agni. 4 To thee, strong Agni! Varuna and Mitra and all the Maruts sang a song of triumph, 5 Approaching with raised hands and adoration, we have this day fulfilled for thee thy longing. 6 For, Son of Strength, from thee come many succours, and powers abundant that a God possesses. 7 Whatever, God, in sacrifice we mortals have wrought is all for thee, strong, wise of purpose!

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 Worshipping, seeking him with adoration like some lost creature followed by its footprints, 3 On the Cow's forehead, with laborious searching, Trita, the offspring of Vibhiavas, found him. 4 Yearning, with homage, they have set and made him blithe Priest among mankind, oblation−bearer, 5 The foolish brought the ne'er−bewildered forward, great, Victor, Song−inspirer, Fort−destroyer. 6 Holding his station firmly in the houses, Trita sat down within his home surrounded 7 His are the fires, eternal, purifying, that make the houses move, whose smoke is shining, 8 The tongue of Agni bears away the praisesong, and, through his care for Earth, her operations. 9 That Agni, him whom Heaven and Earth engendered, the Waters. Tvastar, and with might, the Bhrgus, 10 Agni, whom Gods have made oblationbearer, and much−desiring men regard as holy,

2 I come appointed messenger of Indra, seeking your ample stores of wealth, O Panis. 3 What is that Indra like, what is his aspect whose envoy, Sarama, from afar thou comest? 4 I know him safe from harm: but he can punish who sent me hither from afar as envoy. 5 These are the kine which, Sarama, thou seekest, flying, O Blest One, to the ends of heaven. 6 Even if your wicked bodies, O ye Panis, were arrow−proof, your words are weak for wounding; 7 Paved with the rock is this our treasure−chamber; filled full of precious things, of kine, and horses. 8 Rsis will come inspirited with Soma, Angirases unwearied, and Navagvas. 9 Even thus, O Sarama, hast thou come hither, forced by celestial might to make the journey.

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 We pray for wealth to thee most skilled of charioteers, with braided hair, 3 Bright God whose steeds are goats, thou art a stream of wealth, a treasure−heap, 4 Pusan, who driveth goats for steeds, the strong and Mighty, who is called 5 His Mother's suitor I address. May he who loves his Sister hear, 6 May the sure−footed goats come nigh, conveying Pusan on his car, 2 And he is best of charioteers. Indra, the hero's Lord, allied 3 And there the best of charioteers hath guided through the speckled cloud 4 Whate'er we speak this day to thee, Wise, Wondrous God whom many praise, 5 Lead on this company of ours, that longs for kine, to win the spoil: 6 Prosperity we crave from thee, afar from sin and near to wealth,

2 This is prepared for him the first, the second, and the third time: he is man's Priest and Herald. 3 To Indra's car the Bay Steeds have I harnessed, that new well−spoken words may bring him hither. 4 Indra, come hitherward with two Bay Coursers, come thou with four, with six when invocated. 5 O Indra, come thou hither having harnessed thy car with twenty, thirty, forty horses. 6 Come to us hitherward, O Indra, carried by eighty, ninety, or an hundred horses. 7 To this my prayer, O Indra, come thou hither: bind to thy car's pole all thy two Bay Coursers. 8 Ne'er be my love from Indra disunited still may his liberal Milch−cow yield us treasure. 9 Now may that wealthy Cow Of thine, O Indra, give in return a boon to him who lauds thee.

2 Born from the heaven e'en in the days aforetime, wakening, sting aloud in holy synod, 3 The Mother of the Twins hath borne Twin Children: my tongue's tip raised itself and rested silent. 4 Not one is found among them, none of mortals, to blame our sires who fought to win the cattle. 5 Where as a Friend with friendly men, Navagvas, with heroes, on his knees he sought the cattle. 6 Indra found meath collected in the milch−cow, by foot and hoof, in the cow's place of pasture. 7 He took the light, discerning it from darkness: may we be far removed from all misfortune. 8 Let there be light through both the worlds for worship: may we be far from most overwhelming evil. 9 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered,

2 Hither is come the Rbhus' gift of riches; here was the drinking of the well−pressed Soma, 3 Ye made fourfold the chalice that wag single: ye spake these words and said, O Friend, assist us; 4 Out of what substance was that chalice fashioned which ye made fourfold by your art and wisdom? 5 Ye with your cunning made your Parents youthful; the cup, for Gods to drink, ye formed with cunning; 6 Whoso pours out for you, when days are closing, the sharp libation for your joy, O Vajas, 7 Lord of Bay Steeds, at dawn thejuice thou drankest: thine, only thine, is the noonday libation. 8 Ye, whom your artist skill hath raised to Godhead have set you down above in heaven like falcons. 9 The third libation, that bestoweth treasure, which ye have won by skill, ye dexterous−handed,−

2 The strong Steers, gathering, have duly stirred themselves,and over the stream's wave the friends sent fo 3 With sanctifying gear they sit around the song: their ancient Father guards their holy work from harm. 4 Sweet−tongued, exhaustless, they have sent their voices down togetlier, in heaven's vault that pours a 5 O'er Sire and Mother they have roared in unison bright with the verse of praise, burning up riteless men, 6 Those which, as guides of song and counsellors of speed, were manifested from their ancient dwelling 7 What time the filter with a thousand streams is stretched, the thoughtful sages purify their song therein. 8 Guardian of Law, most wise, he may not be deceived: three Purifiers hath he set within his heart. 9 The thread of sacrifice spun in the cleansing sieve, on Varuna's tongue−tip, by supernatural might,−

2 The man with food in store who, when the needy comes in miserable case begging for bread to eat, 3 Bounteous is he who gives unto the beggar who comes to him in want of food and feeble. 4 No friend is he who to his friend and comrade who comes imploring food, will offer nothing. 5 Let the rich satisfy the poor implorer, and bend his eye upon a longer pathway. 6 The foolish man wins food with fruitless labour: that food −I speak the truth− shall be his ruin. 7 The ploughshare ploughing makes the food that feeds us, and with its feet cuts through the path it follo 8 He with one foot hath far outrun the biped, and the two−footed catches the three−footed. 9 The hands are both alike: their labour differs. The yield of sister milch−kine is unequal.

1 beg renown of Varuna the Mighty, the God exceeding kind to him who worships. 3 May we be in thy keeping, O thou Leader wide−ruling Varuna, Lord of many heroes. 4 He made them flow, the Aditya, the Sustainer: the rivers run by Varuna's commandment. 5 Loose me from sin as from a bond that binds me: may we swell, Varuna, thy spring of Order. 6 Far from me, Varuna, remove all danger accept me graciously, thou Holy Sovran. 7 Strike us not, Varuna, with those dread weapons which, Asura, at thy bidding wound the sinner. 8 O mighty Varuna, now and hereafter, even as of old, will we speak forth our worship. 9 Move far from me what sins I have committed: let me not suffer, King, for guilt of others. 10 O King, whoever, be he friend or kinsman, hath threatened me affrighted in my slumber−

2 The many sages utter words in unison, while into Indra's throat they pour the Soma juice, 3 He goes upon his way, unresting, to the cows, over the roaring sound which Sarya's Daughter loves. 4 Washed by the men, stone−pressed, dear on the holy grass, faithful to seasons, Lord of cattle from of ol 5 O Indra, urged by arms of men and poured in streams, Soma flows on for thee after.his Godlike kind. 6 Sages well−skilled in work, intelligent, drain out the stalk that roars, the Sage, the Everlasting One. 7 Earth's central point, sustainer of the mighty heavens, distilled into the streams, into the waters' wave, 8 Over the earthly region flow thou on thy way, helping the praiser and the pourer, thou Most Wise. 9 Hither, O Indu, unto us a hundred gifts of steeds, a thousand gifts of cattle and of gold,

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

2 Thou, Indra, art the Conqueror: thou gavest splendour to the Sun. 3 Radiant with light thou wentest to the sky, the luminous realm of heaven. 4 Come unto us, O Indra, dear, still conquering, unconcealable, 5 O truthful Soma−drinker, thou art mightier than both the worlds. 6 For thou art he, O Indra, wiio stormeth all castles of the foe, 7 Now have we, Indra, Friend of Song, sent our great wishes forth to thee, 8 As rivers swell the ocean, so, Hero, our prayers increase thy might, 9 With holy song mey bind to the broad wide−yoked car the Bay Steeds of the rapid God, 10 O Indra, bring great strength to us, bring valour, Satakratu, thou most active, bring 11 For, gracious Satakratu, thou hast ever been a Mother and a Sire to us, 12 To thee, Strong, Much−invoked, who showest forth thy strength, O Satakratu, do I speak:

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 His two red horses, all−supporting, let him yoke: let him, well−worshipped, urge them fast. 3 The flame of him the Bountiful, the Much−invoked, hath mounted up, 4 Thee, thee Most Glorious One we make our messenger. Bring the Gods hither to the feast. 5 Thou, Agni, art the homestead's Lord, our Herald at the sacrifice. 6 Give riches to the sacrificer, O Most Wise, for thou art he who granteth wealth. 7 O Agni who art worshipped well, dear let our princes he to thee, 8 They in whose home, her hand bearing the sacred oil, Ila sits down well−satisfied− 9 Do thou, a Priest with pleasant tongue, most wise, and very near to us, 10 They who bestow as bounty plenteous wealth of steeds, moved by desire of great renown− 11 The God who gives your wealth demands a full libation poured to him. 12 Him have the Gods appointed Priest of sacrifice, oblation−bearer, passing wise.

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 Munis, girdled with the wind, wear garments soiled of yellow hue. 3 Transported with our Munihood we have pressed on into the winds: 4 The Muni, made associate in the holy work of every God, 5 The Steed of Vata, Vayu's friend, the Muni, by the Gods impelled, 6 Treading the path of sylvan beasts, Gandharvas, and Apsarases, 7 Vayu hath churned for him: for him he poundeth things most hard to bend, 2 Two several winds are blowing here, from Sindhu, from a distant land. 3 Hither, O Wind, blow healing balm, blow all disease away, thou Wind; 4 I am come nigh to thee with balms to give thee rest and keep thee safe. 5 Here let the Gods deliver him, the Maruts' band deliver him: 6 The Waters have their healing power, the Waters drive disease away. 7 The tongue that leads the voice precedes. Then with our ten−fold branching hands,

1 THE chanters hymn thee, they who say the word of praise magnify thee. 2 As up he clomb from ridge to ridge and looked upon the toilsome task, 3 Harness thy pair of strong bay steeds, long−maned, whose bodies fill the girths, 4 Come hither, answer thou the song, sing in approval, cry aloud. 5 To Indra must a laud be said, to strengthen him who freely gives, 6 Him, him we seek for friendship, him for riches and heroic might. 7 Easy to turn and drive away, Indra, is spoil bestowed by thee. 8 The heaven and earth contain thee not, together, in thy wrathful mood. 9 Hear, thou whose ear is quick, my call; take to thee readily my songs 10 We know thee mightiest of all, in battles hearer of our cry. 11 O Indra, Son of Kusika, drink our libation with delight. 12 Lover of song, may these our songs on every side encompass thee:

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 The thought is deeply fixed; the savoury juice is shed; the tongue with joyous sound is stirring in the 3 He flows about the sheep−skin, longing for a bride: he looses Aditi's Daughters for the worshipper. 4 The Bull is bellowing; the Cows are coming nigh: the Goddesses approach the God's own resting−place. 5 The golden−hued, Immortal, newly bathed, puts on a brightly shining vesture that is never harmed. 6 Even as the beams of Surya, urging men to speed, that cheer and send to sleep, together rush they forth, 7 As down the steep slope of a river to the vale, drawn from the Steer the swift strong draughts have foun 8 Pour out upon us wealth in goods, in gold, in steeds, in cattle and in corn, and great heroic strength. 9 These Pavamanas here, these drops of Soma, to Indra have sped forth like cars to booty. 10 O Indu, flow thou on for lofty Indra, flow blameless, very gracious, foe−destroyer.

2 The God, intelligent, the speedy envoy whom thou hast sent hath come to me, Devapi: 3 Within my mouth, Brhaspati, deposit speech lucid, vigorous, and free from weakness, 4 Let the sweet drops descend on us, O Indra: give us enough to lade a thousand wagons. 5 Knowing the God's good−will, Devapi, Rsi, the son of Rstisena, sate as Hotar. 6 Gathered together in that highest ocean, the waters stood by deities obstructed. 7 When as chief priest for Santanu, Devapi, chosen for Hotar's duty, prayed beseeching, 8 O Agni whom Devapi Arstisena, the mortal man, hath kindled in his glory, 9 All ancient Rsis with their songs approached thee, even thee, O Much−invoked, at sacrifices. 10 The wagon−loads, the nine−and−ninety thousand, these have been offered up to thee, O Agni. 11 Give thou these ninety thousand loads, O Agni, to Indra, to the Bull, to be his portion. 12 O Agni, drive afar our foes, our troubles chase malady away and wicked demons.