Rig Veda on Strength

2 Discerning, have they offered gifts: they guard the strength that never wastes. 3 Svaitreya's people, all his men, have gloriously increased in might. 4 I bring, as 'twere, the longed−for milk, the dear milk of the Sister−Pair. 5 Beam of light, come to us in sportive fashion, finding thyself close to the wind that fans thee.

2 Dispelling manifold mishap, giving the courser's progeny, 3 Bringing prosperity to kine, they make perpetual Ila flow 4 Strong, mountain−born, the stalk hath been 5 Fair is the God−loved juice; the plant is washed in waters, pressed by men 6 As drivers deck a courser, so have they adorned the meath's juice for 7 Thou, Indu, with thy streams that drop sweet juices, which were poured for 8 So flow thou onward through the fleece, for Indra flow, to be his drink, 9 As giving room and freedom, as most sweet, pour butter forth and milk, 10 Most active and benevolent, this Pavamana, sent to us 11 Queller of curses, mighty, with strong sway, this Pavamana shall 12 Pour thou upon us thousandfold possessions, both of kine and steeds, 13 Wandering far, with wise designs, the juice here present is effused, 14 For Indra flows the gladdening drink, the measurer of the region, Sage, 15 Born on the inountain, lauded here, Indu for Indra is set down, 16 Pressed by the men, as 'twere to war hath Soma Pavamana sped, 17 That he may move, they yoke him to the three−backed triple−seated car 18 Drive ye that Tawny Courser, O ye pressers, on his way to war, 19 Pouring all glories hither, he, effused and entering the jar, 20 Indu, the living men milk out the juice to make the rapturous draught: 21 Pour for the Gods into the sieve our Soma very rich in sweets, 22 Into his stream who gladdens best these Soma juices have been poured, 23 Thou flowest to enjoy the milk, and bringest valour, being cleansed: 24 And, hymned by Jamadagnis, let all nourishment that kine supply, 25 Soma, as leader of the song flow onward with thy wondrous aids, 26 Do thou as leader of the song, stirring the waters of the sea, 27 O Soma, O thou Sage, these worlds stand ready to attest thy might: 28 Like showers of rain that fall from heaven thy streams perpetually flow 29 For potent Indra purify Indu effectual and strong, 30 Soma, true, Pavamana, Sage, is seated in the cleansing sieve,

2 He who slew Vrtra, burst the cloud, brake the strongholds and drave the floods, 3 Like pools of water deep and full, like kine thou cherishest thy might; 4 Bring thou us wealth with power to strike, our share, 'gainst him who calls it his. 5 Indra, self−ruling Lord art thou, good Leader, of most glorious fame.

2 Pleased with the hymn, impelled by prayer, Soma is hurried far away, 3 Watchful among the. gods, this juice advances to the cleansing sieve 4 Flow onward, seeking strength for us, embellishing the sacrifice: 5 May Soma, ever bringing power to Bhaga and to Vayu, Sage 6 So, to increase our wealth to−day, Inspirer, best of Furtherers,

2 When, Bright Ones, fain to show your might ye have determined on your course, 3 Loud roaring with the winds the Sons of Prsni have upraised themselves: 4 The Maruts spread the mist abroad and make mountains rock and reel, 5 What time the rivers and the hills before your coming bowed them down, 6 We call on you for aid by night, on you for succour in the day, 7 These, verily, wondrous, red of hue, speed on their courses with a roar 8 With might they drop the loosened rein so that the Sun may run his course, 9 Accept, ye Maruts, this my song, accept ye this mine hymn of praise, 10 The dappled Cows have poured three lakes, meath for the Thunder−wielding God, 11 O Maruts, quickly come to us when, longing for felicity, 12 For, Rudras and Rbhuksans, ye, Most Bountiful, are in the house, 13 O Maruts, send us down from heaven riches distilling rapturous joy, 14 When, Bright Ones, hither from the hills ye have resolved to take your way, 15 Man should solicit with his lauds happiness which belongs to them, 16 They who like fiery sparks with showers of rain blow through the heaven and earth, 17 With chariots and tumultuous roar, with tempests and with hymns of praise 18 For wealth, we think of that whereby ye aided Yadu, Turvasa, 19 May these our viands Bounteous Ones I that flow in streams like holy oil, 20 Where, Bounteous Lords for whom the grass is trimmed, are ye rejoicing now? 21 Is it not there where ye of old, supplied with sacred grass, for lauds 22 They brought together both the worlds, the mighty waters, and the Sun, 23 They sundered Vrtra limb from limb and split the gloomy mountain−clouds, 24 They reinforced the power and strength of Trita as he fought, and helped 25 They deck themselves for glory, bright, celestial, lightning in their hands, 26 When eagerly ye from far away came to the cavern of the Bull, 27 Borne by your golden−footed steeds, O Gods, come hither to receive 28 When the red leader draws along their spotted deer yoked to the car.

2 Strong God, he slew Anarsani, Srbinda, Pipru, and the fiend, 4 Bold, to your famous Soma I call the fair−visored God for aid, 5 Rejoicing in the Soma−draughts, Hero, burst open, like a fort, 6 If my libation gladdens, if thou takest pleasure in my laud, 7 O Indra, Lover of the Song, the singers of thy praise are we: 8 And, taking thy delight with us bring us still undiminished food: 9 Make thou us rich in herds of kine, in steeds, in gold: let us exert 10 Let us call him to aid whose hands stretch far, to whom high laud is due. 11 He, Satakratu, even in fight acts as a Vrtra−slayer s,till: 12 May he, this A;akra, strengthen us, Boon God who satisfies our needs, 13 To him, the mighty stream of wealth, the Soma−presser's rescuing Friend, 14 Who bringeth what is great and firm, who winneth glory in his wars, 15 There liveth none to cheek or stay his energies and gracious deeds: 16 No debt is due by Brahmans now, by active men who press the juice: 17 Sing ye to him who must be praised, say lauds to him who must be praised, 18 May be, unchecked, strong, meet for praise, bring hundreds, thousands forth to light, 19 Go with thy God−like nature forth, go where the folk are calling thee: 20 Drink milky draughts which are thine own, this too which was with Tugrya once, 21 Pass him who psours libations out in angry mood or after sin: 22 Over the three great distances, past the Five Peoples go thy way, 23 Send forth thy ray like Surya: let my songs attract thee hitherward, 24 Now to the Hero fair of cheek, Adhvaryu, pour the Soma forth: 25 Who cleft the water−cloud in twain, loosed rivers for their downward flow, 26 He, meet for praise, slew Vrtra, slew Ahisuva, Urnavabha's son, 27 To him your matchless Mighty One, unconquerable Conqueror, 28 Indra, who in the wild delight of Soma juice considers here 29 Hither let these thy Bays who share thy banquet, Steeds with golden manes, 30 Hither, O thou whom many laud, the Bays whom Priyamedha praised,

2 Arrows with hundred points, unconquerable, are this Indra's n−dghty arms in war. 3 What time the flowing Soma−drops have gladdened with their taste the Friend, 4 To him the peerless, who is calling you to give you aid, forth flow the drops of pleasant meath. 5 He rushes hurrying like a steed to Soma that adorns our rite, 6 Praise the strong, grasping Hero, winner of the spoil, ruling supreme oer mighty wealth. 7 Now whether thou be far away, or in the heavens, or on the earth, 8 The Bays who draw thy chariot, Steeds who injure none, surpass the wind's impetuous strength− 9 O gracious Hero, may we learn anew to know thee as thou art: 10 As, Maghavan, to Kanva at the sacred feast, to Dirghanitha thine home−friend,

2 May your pure steeds, rain−drinkers, bring you hither, swift as the tempest, your celestial coursers, 3 Your car is like a torrent rushing downward: may it come nigh, broad−seated, for our welfare,− 4 Here sprung to life, they both have sung together, with bodies free from stain, with signs that mark them 5 May your car−seat, down−gliding, golden−coloured, according to your wish approach our dwellings. 6 Forth comes your strong Bull like a cloud of autumn, sending abundant food of liquid sweetness. 7 Your constant song hath been sent forth, Disposers! that flows threefold in mighty strength, O Asvins. 8 This song of bright contents for you is swelling in the men's hall where three−fold grass is.ready. 9 The prudent worshipper, like Pusan, Asvins! praises you as he praises Dawn and Agni,

2 Indra, accordant, with the banded Maruts, drink Soma, Hero, as wise Vrtra−slayer. 3 And, drinker at due seasons, drink in season, Indra, with friendly Gods, our pressed−out Soma. 4 Drink Soma, Indra, banded with the Maruts who, Maghavan, strengthened thee at Ahi's slaughter, 5 The Bull whose strength hath waxed, whom Maruts follow, free−giving Indra, the celestial Ruler,

2 As thou with Matarisvan, Medhya, Prsadhra, hast cheered thee Indra, with pressed juice, 3 'Tis he who made the lauds his own and boldly drank the Soma juice, 4 In whose laud thou didst joy, Indra, at the great deed, O Satakratu, Mighty One! 5 He is our Sire who gives to us, Great, Mighty, ruling as he wills. 6 He to whom thou, Good Lord, givest that he may give increases wealth that nourishes. 7 Never art thou neglectful: thou guardest both races with thy care. 8 The offercr whom thou, Indra, Lover of the Song, liberal Maghavan, favourest,− 9 Sung is the song of ancient time: to Indra have ye said the prayer. 10 Indra hath tossed together mighty stores of wealth, and both the worlds, yea, and the Sun.

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

1 In the great synod will I laud thy two Bay Steeds: I prize the sweet strong drink of thee the Warrior−Go 2 Ye who in concert sing unto the goldhued place, like Bay Steeds driving onward to the heavenly seat, 3 His is that thunderbolt, of iron, goldenhued, gold−coloured, very dear, and yellow in his arms; 4 As if a lovely ray were laid upon the sky, the golden thunderbolt spread out as in a race. 5 Thou, thou, when praised by men who sacrificed of old. hadst pleasure in their lauds, O Indra 6 These two dear Bays bring hither Indra on his car, Thunder−armed, joyous, meet for laud, to drink his fi 7 Tle gold−hued drops have flowed to gratify his wish: the yellow dro s have urged the swift Bays to the 8 At the swift draught the Soma−drinker waxed in might, the Iron One with yellow beard and yellow hair. 9 His yellow−coloured jaws, like ladles move apart, what time, for strength, he makes the yellow−tinted s 10 Yea, to the Dear One's seat in homes of heaven and earth the Bay Steeds' Lord hath whinnied like a ho 11 Thou, comprehending with thy might the earth and heaven, acceptest the dear hymn for ever new and 12 O Indra, let the eager wishes of the folk bring thee, delightful, golden−visored, on thy car, 13 Juices aforetime, Lord of Bays, thou drankest; and thine especially is this libation.

2 Lauded by many, much−invoked, leader of song, renowned of old: 3 Indra the Dancer be to us the giver of abundant strength: 4 Indra whose jaws are strong hath drunk of worshipping Sudaksa's draught, 5 Call Indra loudly with your songs of praise to drink the Soma juice. 6 When he hath drqnk its gladdening drops, the God with vigour of a God 7 Thou speedest down to succour us this ever−conquering God of yours, 8 The Warrior not to he restrained, the Soma−drinker ne'er o'erthrown, 9 O Indra, send us riches, thou Omniscient, worthy of our praise: 10 Even thence, O 1ndra, come to us with food that gives a hundred powers, 11 We sought the wisdom of the wise. Sakra, Kine−giver, Thunder−armed! 12 We make thee, Satakratu, find enjoyment in the songs we sing.

2 As giving power and winning light, for Indra and for Vayu he 3 The men conduct him, Soma, Steer, Omniscient, and the Head of Heaven, 4 Longing for kine, longing for gold hath Indu Pavamana lowed, 5 This Pavamana, gladdening draught, drops on the filtering cloth, and then 6 To Indra in the firmament this mighty tawny Steer hath flowed,

2 Producing light for all the world of creatures, God Savitar hath raised aloft his banner. 3 Red Dawn.is come, riding with brightness onward, distinguished by her beams, gay−hued and mighty. 4 May those most powerful steeds and chariot bring you, O Asvins, hither at the break of morning. 5 How is it that, unbound and unsupported, he falleth not although directed downward?

2 The Red hath mounted to his place; to India, goes the mighty juice: 3 O Indu, Soma, send us now great opulence from every side, Pour on us treasures thousandfold. 4 O Soma Pavamana, bring, Indu, all splcndours hitherward: 5 As thou art cleansed, bring hero strength and riches to thy worshipper, 6 O Indu, Soma, being cleansed, bring hither riches doublypiled,

11 They have been poured upon the fleece towards the meath−distilling vat: 12 Like milch−kine coming home, the drops of Soma juice have reached the lake, 13 O Indu, to our great delight the running waters flow to us, 14 In this thy friendship, and with thee to help us, fain to sacrifice, 15 Flow on, O Soma, for the great Viewer of men, for gain of Idne 16 Best art thou, Soma, of the great, Strongest of strong ones, Indu: thou 17 Mightier even than the strong, more valiant even than the brave, 18 Soma, as Sura, bring us food, win offspring of our bodies: we 19 Agni, thou pourest life; send down upon us food and vigorous strength; 20 Agni is Pavamana, Sage, Chief Priest of all the Races Five: 21 Skilled in thy task, O Agni, pour splendour with hero strength on us, 22 Beyond his enemies away to sweet praise Pavamana flows, 23 Adorned by living men, set forth for entertainment, rich in food, 24 He, Pavamana, hath produced the lofty Law, the brilliant light, 25 From tawny Pavamana, the Destroyer, radiant streams have sprung, 26 Best rider of the chariot, praised with fairest praise mid beauteous ones, 27 May Pavamana, best to win the booty, penetrate with rays, 28 Over the fleecy sieve hath flowed the drop effused: to Indra comes 29 This Soma, through the pressing−stones, is sporting on the oxhide, and 30 O Pavamana, bless us, so that we may live, with that bright milk

2 That Agni, bright, Vaisvanara, we invoke for help, and Matarisvan worthy of the song of praise; 3 Age after age Vaisvanara, neighing like a horse, is kindled with the women by the Kusikas. 4 Let them go forth, the strong, as flames of fire with might. Gathered for victory they have yoked their 5 The Maruts, Friends of men, are glorious as the fire: their mighty and resplendent succour we implore. 6 We, band on band and troop following troop, entreat with fair lauds Agni's splendour and the Maruts' 7 Agni am I who know, by birth, all creatures. Mine eye is butter, in my mouth is nectar. 8 Bearing in mind a thought with light accordant, he purified the Sun with three refinings; 9 The Spring that fails not with a hundred streamlets, Father inspired of' prayers that men should utter,

2 A hundred necklets from the King, beseeching, a hundred gift−steeds I at once accepted; 3 Horses of dusky colour stood beside me, ten chariots, Svanaya's gift, with mares to draw them. 4 Forty bay horses of the ten cars' master before a thousand lead the long procession. 5 An earlier gift for you have I accepted eight cows, good milkers, and tree harnessed horses, 2 We, sacrificing, call on thee best worshipper, the eldest of Angirases, Singer, with hymns, thee, brilliant 3 He with his shining glory blazing far and wide, he verily it is who slayeth demon foes, slayeth the demo 4 To him, as one who knows, even things solid yield: unrough fire−sticks heated hot he gives his gifts to a 5 Here near we place the sacrificial food for him who shines forth fairer in the night than in the day, with l 6 He, roaring very loudly like the Maruts' host, in fertile cultivated fields adorable, in desert spots adorabl 7 Even as they who sarig forth hymns, addressed to heaven, the Blirgus with their prayer and praise invite 8 Thee we invoke, the Lord of all our settled homes, common to all, the household's guardian, to enjoy, 9 Thou, Agni, most victorious with thy conquering strength, most Mighty One, art born for service of the 10 To him the mighty, conquering with victorious strength, to Agni walking with the dawn, who sendeth 11 Agni, beheld by us in nearest neighbourhood, accordant with the Gods, bring us, with gracious love, gr

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

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

2 Ask of the sages' mighty generations firm−minded and devout they framed the heaven. 3 Assuming in this world mysterious natures, they decked the heaven and earth for high dominion, 4 Even as he mounted up they all adorned him: self−luminous he travels clothed in splendour. 5 First the more ancient Bull engendered offspring; these are his many draughts that lent him vigour. 6 Three seats ye Sovrans, in the Holy synod, many, yea, all, ye honour with your presence. 7 That same companionship of her, the Milch−cow, here with the strong Bull's divers forms they stablishe 8 Let no one here debar me from enjoying the golden light which Savitar diffuses. 9 Fulfil, ye twain, his work, the Great, the Ancient: as heavenly blessing keep your guard around us. 10 Call we on Indra, Maghavan, auspicious, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered,

2 So made attentive by our hymns, Steer! Indra! thou fastenedst the girth of thy Bay Coursers, 3 They were not turned to us−wtrd, lofty Indra! while yet through lack of prayer they stood unharnessed. 4 Thou, because many lauds are thine, O Indra, wast active warring in the fields 5 Thine are we, Indra; thine are all these people, conscious of might, whose cars are set in motion. 6 Strength much to be desired is in thee, Indra: the Immortal dances forth his hero exploits. 7 Thus favour us, O Indra, with ihy succour; Hero, protect the bards who sing thy praises. 8 And these ten steeds which Trasadasyu gives me, the goldrich chief, the son of Purukutsa, 9 And these, bestowed as sacrificial guerdon, the powerful tawny steeds of Marutasva; 10 And these commended horses, bright and active, by Dhvanya son of Laksmana presented,

2 To thee with sacrifices, with oblations, and with lauds we come. 3 Thou who art Lord of precious boons, inciter even of the churl. 4 Strong, Lords of Magic power, ye Twain churned the united worlds apart, 5 When the united pair were rent asunder all the Gods complained. 6 Sweet be my going forth, and rich in sweets be my approach to home.

22 Condemn us not to indigence, O Agni, beside these flaming fires which Gods have kindled; 23 O Agni, fair of face, the wealthy mortal who to the Immortal offers his oblation. 24 Knowing our chief felicity, O Agni, bring hither ample riches to our nobles, 25 Give strength and power to these my prayers, O Agni; O God, pour blessings on bur chiefs and nobles.

2 Poured forth to Indra, Varuna, to Vayu and the Marut hosts, 3 With stones they press the Soma forth, the Strong conducted by the strong: 4 'Tis he whom Trita must refine, 'tis he who shall make Indra glad: 5 Him do the Sons of Prsni milk, the dwelling−place of sacrifice, 6 To him in one unitcd stream th−,se songs flow on straight forward. he,

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 High in the seat of heaven is spread the Scorcher's sieve: its threads are standing separate, glittering wit 3 The foremost spotted Steer hath made the Mornings shine, and yearning after strength sustains all things 4 Gandharva verily protects his dwellingplace; Wondrous, he guards the generations of the Gods. 5 Rich in oblations! robed in cloud, thou corapassest oblation, sacrifice, the mighty seat of Gods.

2 Tvastar's ten daughters, vigilant and youthful, produced this Infant borne to sundry quarters. 4 Who of you knows this secret One? The Infant by his own nature hath brought forth his Mothers. 5 Visible, fair, he grows in native brightness uplifted in the lap of waving waters. 6 The Two auspicious Ones, like women, tend him: like lowing cows they seek him in their manner. 7 Like Savitar his arms with might he stretches; awful, he strives grasping the world's two borders. 8 He makes him a most noble form of splendour, decking him in his home with milk and waters. 9 Wide through the firmament spreads forth triumphant the far−resplendent strength of' thee the Mighty. 10 In dry spots he makes stream, and course, and torrent, and inundates the earth with floods that glisten. 11 Fed with our fuel, purifying Agni, so blaze to us auspiciously for glory.

2 Ye, as ye wist, have gained of your own selves your power: high, O ye Mighty Ones, and wide ye shine 3 Strong, born together, they together have waxed great: the Heroes more and more have grown to majest 4 Maruts, your mightiness deserves to be adored, sight to be longed for like the shining of the Sun. 5 O Maruts, from the Ocean ye uplift the rain, and fraught with vaporous moisture pour the torrents down. 6 When to your car−poles ye have yoked your spotted deer to be your steeds, and put your golden mantles 7 Neither the mountains nor the rivers keep you back: whither ye have resolved thither ye, Maruts, go. 9 Be gracious unto us, ye Maruts, slay us not extend ye unto us shelter of many a sort. 10 O Maruts, lead us on to higher fortune deliver us, when lauded, from afflictions.

23 We to the Mighty with our might, with lauds to him who hears our call, 24 Not earth, nor heaven, nor firmaments contain the Thunder−wielding God: 25 What time the Gods, O Indra, get thee foremost in the furious fight, 26 When Vrtra, stayer of the floods, thou si"est, Thundeicr with might, 27 When Visnu, through thine energy, strode wide those three great steps of his, 28 When thy two beautiful Bay Steeds grew great and greater day by day, 29 When, Indra, all the Marut folk humbly submitted them to thee, 30 When yonder Sun, that brilliant light, thou settest in the heaven above, 31 To thee, O Indra, with this thought the sage lifts up this eulogy, 32 When in thine own dear dwelling all gathered have lifted up the voice 33 As Priest, O Indra, give us wealth in brave men and good steeds ana kine

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

2 All men are joyful in thy power, O God, that living from the dry wood thou art born. 3 Strong is the thought of Law, the Law's behest; all works have they performed; he quickens all. 4 Seated as Priest with Manu's progeny, of all these treasures he alone is Lord. 5 Eagerly they who hear his word fulfil his wish as sons obey their sire's behest.

2 He, Friend of man, most wise, victorious Hero, hears, with far−reaching aid, the singer call him. 3 The lofty axle of thy wheels, O Hero, is not surpassed by heaven and earth in greatness. 4 Strong Lord, thine energies, endowed with vigour, are like the paths of kine converging homeward. 5 One act to−day, another act tomorrow oft Indra makes what is not yet existeni. 6 By song and sacrifice men brought the waters from thee, as from a mountain's ridge, O Indra. 7 That Indra whom nor months nor autumn seasons wither with age, nor fleeting days enfeeble,− 8 Extolled, he bends not to the strong, the steadfast, nor to the bold incited by the Dasyu. 9 Impetuous Speeder through all depth and distance, give strengthening food, thou drinker of the juices. 10 Hasting to help, come hither and protect him, keep him from harm when he is here, O Indra.

2 On to the rite they move, the grass they scatter, these Soma−drinkers eloquent in synod. 3 Indra, thou settest free the many waters that were encompassed, Hero, by the Dragon. 4 Skilled in all manly deeds the God terrific hath with his weapons mastered these opponents. 5 No evil spirits have impelled us, Indra, nor fiends, O Mightiest God, with their devices. 6 Thou in thy strength surpassest Earth and Heaven: the regions comprehend not all thy greatness. 7 Even the earlier Deities submitted their powers to thy supreme divine dominion. 8 The humble hath invoked thee for protection, thee, Lord of great felicity, O Indra. 9 May we, O Indra, be thy friends for ever, eagerly, Conqueror, yielding greater homage. 10 Place us by food which thou hast given, O Indra, us and the wealthy patrons who command us. 2 So let the draught of joy, thy dear companion, by which, O Lord of Bays, thou slayest foemen, 3 Mark closely, Maghavan, the words I utter, this eulogy recited by Vasistha: 4 Hear thou the call of the juice−drinking press−stone: hear thou the Brahman's hymn who sings and laud 5 I know and ne'er forget the hymns and praises of thee, the Conqueror, and thy strength immortal. 6 Among mankind many are thy libations, and many a time the pious sageinvokes thee. 7 All these libations are for thee, O Hero: to thee I offer these my prayers. that strengthen. 8 Never do men attain, O Wonder−Worker, thy greatness, Mighty One, who must be lauded, 9 Among all Rsis, Indra, old and recent, who have engendered hymns as sacred singers,

2 Quelling the riteless Dasyu, may we think upon the bridge of bliss, 3 The mighty Pavamana's roar is heard as 'twere the rush of rain 4 Pour out on us abundant food, when thou art pressed, O Indu wealth 5 Flow on thy way, Most Active, thou. fill full the mighty heavens and earth, 6 On every side, O Soma, flow round us with thy protecting stream,

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 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 High heaven unsupported in space he stablished: he filled the two worlds and the air's mid−region. 3 From front, as 'twere a house, he ruled and measured; pierced with his bolt the fountains of the rivers, 4 Compassing those who bore away Dabhiti, in kindled fire he burnt up all their weapons. 5 The mighty roaring flood he stayed from flowing, and carried those who swam not safely over. 6 With mighty power he made the stream flow upward, crushed with his thunderbolt the car of Usas, 7 Knowing the place wherein the maids were hiding, the outcast showed himself and stood before them. 8 Praised by the Angirases he slaughtered Vala, and burst apart the bulwarks of the mountain. 9 Thou, with sleep whelming Cumuri and Dhuni, slewest the Dasyu, keptest safe Dabhiti. 10 Now let that wealthy Cow of thine, O Indra, yield in return a boon to him who lauds thee.

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

2 Like as a calf with mother cows, so Indu is urged forth and sent, 3 Effectual means of power is he, he is a banquet for the Troop, 4 Flow to us, Indu, passing, strong, effused, with wealth of kine and steeds: 5 Lord of the tawny, Indu thou who art the God's most special food, 6 Drive utterly, far away from us each godless, each voracious foe.

2 Here, by us, for the worshipper, is the wise bolt that works with skill. 3 Impetuous Ahisuva, a bull among cows of his, 4 That the strong−pinioned Bird hath brought, Child of the Falcon, from afar, 5 Which, fair, unrobbed, the Falcon brought thee in his foot, the red−hued dwelling of the juice; 6 So Indra is by lndu's power; e'en among Gods will it repel great treachery.

2 Purified by the stones the Soma flows for thee, clothed with its lovely splendours, to the reservoir, flows 3 Come thou with hundreds, come with thousands in thy team to this our solemn rite, to taste the sacred f 4 The chariot with its team of horses bring you both, to guard us and to taste the well−appointed food, Va 5 May our songs bring you hither to our solemn rites: these drops of mighty vigour have they beauti fied, 6 These Soma juices pressed for you in waters here, borne by attendant priests, are oficredup to you: brigh 7 O Vayu, pass thou over all the,slumberers, and where the press−stone rings enter ye both that house, ye 8 Ride hither to the offering of the pleasant juice, the holy Fig−tree which victorious priests surround: 9 These Bulls of thine, O Vayu with the arm of strength, who swiftly fly within the current of thy stream,

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

2 The will and thoughts within my breast exert their power: they yearn with love, and fly to all the regions 3 To Narasamsa and to Pusan I sing forth, unconcealable Agni kindied by the Gods. 4 How is the Sage extolled whom the loud singers praise? What voice, what hymn is used to laud Brhaspa 5 Aditi, to the birth of Daksa and the vow thou summonest the Kings Mitra and Varuna. 6 May all those vigorous Coursers listen to our cry, hearers of invocation, speeding on their way; 7 Bring ye Purandbi, bring Vayu who yokes his steeds, for friendship bring ye Pusan with your songs of 8 The thrice−seven wandering Rivers, yea, the mighty floods, the forest trees, the mountains, Agni to our 9 Let the great Streams come hither with their mighty help, Sindhu, Sarasvati, and Sarayu with waves. 10 And let Brhaddiva, the Mother, hear our call, and Tvastar, Father, with the Goddesses and Dames. 11 Pleasant to look on as a dwelling rich in food is the blest favour of the Maruts, Rudra's Sons. 12 The thought which ye, O Maruts, Indra and ye Gods have given to me, and ye, Mitra and Varuna,− 13 O Maruts, do ye never, never recollect and call again to mind this our relationship? 14 The Mothers, Heaven and Earth, those mighty Goddesses, worthy of sacrifice, ecune with the race of 15 This invocation wins all good that we desire Brhaspati, highly−praised Aramati, are here, 16 Thus hath the sage, skilled in loud singers' duties, desiring riches, yearning after treasure, 17 Thus hath the thoughtful sage the son of Plati, praised you, O Aaiti and all Adityas.

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:

1 WITH words sent forth in holy hymns, Agni we supplicate, the Lord Of 2 Men have won Agni, him who makes their strength abound: we, with oblations, worship thee. 3 Thee for our messenger we choose, thee, the Omniscient, for our Priest. 4 The Gods enkindle thee their ancient messenger, − Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman. 5 Thou, Agni, art a cheering Priest, Lord of the House, men's messenger: 6 In thee, the auspicious One, O Agni, youthfullest, each sacred gift is offered up: 7 To him in his own splendour bright draw near in worship the devout. 8 Vrtra they smote and slew, and made the earth and heaven and firmament a wide abode. 9 Seat thee, for thou art mighty; shine, best entertainer of the Gods. 10 Bearer of offerings, whom, best sacrificing Priest, the Gods for Manu's sake ordained; 11 Him, Agni, whom Medhyatithi, whom Kanva kindled for his rite, 12 Make our wealth perfect thou, O Agni, Lord divine: for thou hast kinship with the Gods. 13 Stand up erect to lend us aid, stand up like Savitar the God: 14 Erect, preserve us from sore trouble; with thy flame burn thou each ravening demon dead. 15 Preserve us, Agni, from the fiend, preserve us from malicious wrong. 16 Smite down as with a club, thou who hast fire for teeth, smite thou the wicked, right and left. 17 Agni hath given heroic might to Kainva, and felicity: 18 We call on Ugradeva, Yadu, Turvasa, by means of Agni, from afar; 19 Manu hath stablished thee a light, Agni, for all the race of men: 20 The flames of Agni full of splendour and of might are fearful, not to be approached.

2 Great art thou, Mighty Lord, through manly vigour, O fierce One, gathering spoil, subduing others, 3 He hath surpassed all measure in his brightness, yea, and the Gods, for none may be his equal. 4 To Indra, even as rivers to the ocean, flow forth from days of old the Soma juices; 5 The Soma, Indra, which the earth and heaven bear for thee as a mother bears her infant,

2 One by the Soma sits to drink juice which the mortar hath expressed: 3 Goats are the team that draws the one: the other hath Bay Steeds at hand; 4 When Indra, wondrous strong, brought down the streams, the mighty waterfloods, 5 To this, to Pusan's favouring love, and Indra's, may we closely cling, 6 As one who drives a car draws in his reins, may we draw Pusan near,

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

2 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 Agni hath waxen mighty by laudations, to be adored with hymns of those who praise him. 3 Amid men's homes hath Agni been established, fulfilling with the Law, Friend, germ of waters. 4 Agni is Mitra when enkindled duly, Mitra as Priest, Varuna, Jatavedas; 5 The Earth's, the Bird's dear lofty place he guardeth, he guardeth in his might the course of Surya, 6 The skilful God who knows all forms of knowledge made for himself a fair form, meet for worship. 7 Agni hath entered longingly the longing shrine rich with fatness, giving easy access. 8 Born suddenly, by plants he grew to greatness, when tender shoots with holy oil increased him, 9 Extolled, the Strong shone forth with kindled fuel to the earth's centre, to the height of heaven. 10 Best of all luminaries lofty Agni supported with his flame the height of heaven, 11 As holy food, Agni to thine invoker give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.

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

2 Agni, the Bounteous Giver, bright with varied flames, laud thou, O singer Sobhari− 3 Thee have we chosen skilftillest in sacrifice, Immortal Priest among the Gods, 4 The Son of Strength, the blessed, brightly shining One, Agni whose light is excellent. 5 The mortal who hath ministered to Agni with oblation, fuel, ritual lore, 6 Verily swift to run are his fleet−footed steeds, and most resplendent fame is his. 7 May we by thine own fires be well supplied with fire, O Son of Strength, O Lord of Might: 8 Agni, who praises like a guest of friendly mind, is as a car that brings us gear. 9 That man, moreover, merits praise who brings, auspicious Agni, sacrificial gifts 10 He for whose sacrifice thou standest up erect is prosperous and rules o'er men. 11 He in whose dwelling Agni is chief ornament, and, all−desired, loves his laud well, 12 His, or the lauding sage's word, his, Son of Strength! who Is most prompt with sacred gifts, 13 He who with sacrificial gifts or homage bringeth very skilful Agni nigh, 14 The mortal who with blazing fuel, as his laws command, adores the Perfect God, 15 Give us the splendour, Agni, which may overcome each greedy fiend in our abode, 16 That, wherewith Mitra, Varuna, and Aryaman, the Asvins, Bhaga give us light, 17 O Agni, most devout are they, the sages who have set thee Sage exceeding wise, 18 Who have arranged thine altar Blessed God, at morn brought thine oblation, pressed the juice. 19 −May Agni worshipped bring us bliss, may the gift, Blessed One, and sacrifice bring bliss; 20 Show forth the mind that brings success in war with fiends, wherewith thou conquerest in fight.

3 When out of strength arose the strength that conquers, Indra displayed all powers that he possesses. 5 When heroes sang their laud to thee the Hero, Indra! and stones and Aditi accordant, 6 I will declare thine exploits wrought aforetime, and, Maghavan, thy deeds of late achievement, 7 This is thy deed, e'en this, Wonderful! Singer! that, slaying Ahi, here thy strength thou showedst, 8 Thou, Indra, on the farther bank forYadu and Turvaga didst stay the gushing waters. 9 Let the steeds bring you both, Indra and Kutsa, borne on the chariot within hearing−distance. 10 Even this sage hath come looking for succour even to Vata's docile harnessed horses. 11 When night was near its close he carried forward e'en the Sun's chariot backward in its running. 12 This Indra, O ye men, hath come to see you, seeking a friend who hath expressed the Soma. 13 Let mortals who were happy still be happy; let them not come to sorrow, O Immortal.

2 Thou, powerful Soma, thou to whom the cows have −lowed, ascendest bright with sheen, thine 3 Best giver of delight, he flows to Indra's throat, robing himself in might, Auspicious One, for fame. 4 The men, the ten swift fingers, milk thee out for Gods, even thee most rich in meath, with thousand flo 5 Deft−handed men with stones, the ten swift fingers, drain thee into waters, thee, the Steer enriched with

2 To be invoked and hymned in fight with Vrtra, that well−praised Indra gives us real bounties. 3 Him, verily, the men invoke in combat; risking their lives they make him their protector, 4 Strong God! the folk at need put forth their vigour, striving together in the whirl of battle. 5 Hence many a one worships the might of Indra: hence let the brew succeed the meal−oblation. 6 Indra gives comfort to the man who truly presses, for him who longs fot it, the Soma, 7 He who this day for Indra presses Soma, prepares the brew and fries the grains of barley− 8 When the impetuous chief hath sought the confliet, and the lord looked upon the long−drawn battle, 9 He bid a small price for a thing of value: I was content, returning, still unpurchased. 10 Who for ten milch−kine purchaseth from rne this Indra who is mine? 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let wealth swell high like rivers for the singer.

1 To give first thought to them, I worship Heaven and Earth, and Agni, fair bright glow, to hasten their 2 Ample, unfailing, they have mounted as it were an eloquent car that ye may think of us and give. 3 Ye by the might which heavenly nectar giveth you are in supreme dominion Lords of all these folk. 4 The aids wherewith the Wanderer through his offipring's might, or the Two−Mothered Son shows swift 5 Wherewith ye raised from waters, prisoned and fast bound, Rebha, and Vandana to look upon the light; 6 Wherewith ye rescued Antaka when languishing deep in the pit, and Bhujyu with unfailing help. 7 Wherewith ye gave gucanti wealth and happy home, and made the fiery pit friendly for Atri's sake; 8 Mighty Ones, with what powers ye gave Paravrj aid what time ye made the blind and lame to see and w 9 Wherewith ye quickened the most sweet exhaustless flood, and comforted Vasistha, ye who ne'er decay; 10 Wherewith ye helped, in battle of a thousand spoils, Vispala seeking booty, powerless to move. 11 Whereby the cloud, ye Bounteous Givers, shed sweet rain for Dirghasravas, for the merchant Ausija, 12 Wherewith ye made Rasa swell full with water−floods, and urged to victory the car without a horse; 13 Wherewith ye, compass round the Sun when far away, strengthened Manddatar in his tasks as lord of 14 Wherewith, when Sambara was slain, ye guarded well great Atithigva, Divodisa, Kasoju, 15 Wherewith ye honoured the great drinker Vamra, and Upastuta and Kali when he gained his wife, 16 Wherewith, O Heroes, ye vouchsafed deliverance to Sayu, Atri, and to Manu long ago; 17 Wherewith Patharva, in his majesty of form, shone in his course like to a gathered kindled fire; 18 Wherewith, Angirases!

2 For at Gods' worship they are best through vigour; they have become the strongest of the Heroes; 3 Praise those Twain Gods for powers that merit worship, Indra and Varuna, for bliss, the joyous. 4 Though dames and men have waxen strong and mighty, and all the Gods selfpraised among the Heroes, 5 Righteous is he, and liberal and helpful who, Indra−Varuna, brings you gifts with gladness. 6 May wealth which ye bestow in food and treasure on him who brings you gifts and sacrifices, 7 So also, Indra−Varuna, may our princes have riches swift to save, with Gods to guard them− 8 Indra. and Varuna, Gods whom we are lauding, mingle ye wealth with our heroic glory. 9 Now will I sing a dear and far−extending hymn to Varuna the God, sublime, imperial Lord, 10 True to Law, Indra−Varuna, drinkers of the juice, drink this pressed Soma which shall give you raptur 11 Indra and Varuna, drink your fill, ye Heroes, of this invigorating sweetest Soma.

2 On flows that Ancient One whom, hitherward, from heaven, sped through the region of the air, the Falc 3 May those first freshest drops of Soma juice effused flow on, their way to bring us mighty strength in ki 4 May that much−lauded Indu, with a heart inclined to us, well−knowing, fight against our enemies. 5 The active potent juice of heaven is flowing on, great Varuna whom the forward man can ne'er deceive.