Rig Veda on War

2 High is their fuel, great their laud, wide is their splinter from the stake, 3 Unequelled in fight the hero leads his army with the warrior chiefs.

2 With these discomfit hosts that fight against us, and check the opponent's wrath, thyself uninjured. 3 Those who array themselves as foes to smite us, O Indra, be they kin or be they strangers,− 4 With strength of limb the hero slays the hero, when bright in arms they range them for the combat. 5 Yet no strong man hath conquered thee, no hero, no brave, no warrior trusting in his valour. 6 He is the Lord of both these armies' valour when the commanders call them to the conflict: 7 And when the people stir themselves for battle, be thou their saviour, Indra, and protector, 8 To thee for high dominion hath been for evermore, for slaughtering the Vrtras, 9 So urge our hosts together in the combats: yield up the godless bands that fight against us.

2 In war which wins the light, at the freegiver's call, at due oblation of the early−rising one, oblation of th 3 This food glows for thee as of old at sacrifice, wherein they made thee chooser of the place, for thou 4 So now must thy great deed be lauded as of old, when for the Angirases thou openedst the stall, openeds 5 When with wise plan the Hero leads the people forth, they conquer in the ordered battle, seeking fame, 6 Indra and Parvata, our champions in the fight, di ive ye away each man who fain would war with us, dri

2 Whom, most heroic, borne by Tawny Coursers, verily none subdueth in the battle; 3 Victor in fight, swift mover like a warhorse, pervading both worlds, rainer down of blessings, 4 Supporting heaven, the high back of the region, his car is Vayu with his team of Vasus. 5 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered;

2 The Seven Rivers bear his glory far and wide, and heaven and sky and earth display his comely form. 3 Maghavan, grant us that same car to bring us spoil, thy conquering car in which we joy in shock of fight 4 Encourage thou our side in every fight: may we, with thee for our ally, conquer the foeman's host. 5 For here in divers ways these men invoking thee, holder of treasures, sing hymns to win thine aid. 6 His arms win kine, his power is boundless in each act best, with a hundred helps waker of battle's din 7 Thy glory, Maghavan, exceeds a hundred yea, more than a hundred, than a thousand mid the folk, 8 Of thy great might there is a three counterpart, the three earths, Lord men and the three realms of light. 9 We invocate thee first among the Deities: thou hast become a mighty Conquer in fight. 10 Thou hast prevailed, and hast not kept the booty back, in trifling battles in those of great account. 11 May Indra evermore be our Protector, and unimperilled may we win the booty.

2 Where heroes come together with their banners raised, in the encounter where is naught for us to love, 3 The boundaries of earth were seen all dark with dust: O Indra−Varuna, the shout went up to heaven. 4 With your resistless weapons, Indra−Varuna, ye conquered Bheda and ye gave Sudas your aid. 5 O Indra−Varuna, the wickedness of foes and mine assailants' hatred sorely trouble me. 6 The men of both the hosts invoked you in the fight, Indra and Varuna, that they might win the wealth, 7 Ten Kings who worshipped not, O Indra−Varuna, confederate, in war prevailed not o'er Sudas. 8 O Indra−Varuna, ye gave Sudas your aid when the Ten Kings in battle compassed him about, 9 One of you Twain destroys the Vrtras in the fight, the Other evermore maintains his holy Laws. 10 May Indra, Varuna, Mitra, and Aryaman vouchsafe us glory and great shelter spreading far.

2 Thou, Hero, art a warrior, thou art giver of abundant spoil. 3 When war and battles are on foot, booty is laid before the bold. 4 Mighty through wisdom, as he lists, terrible, he hath waxed in strength. 5 He filled the earthly atmosphere and pressed against the lights in heaven. 6 May he who to the offerer gives the foeman's man−sustaining food, 7 He, righteous−hearted, at each time of rapture gives us herds of kine. 8 Refresh thee, Hero, with the juice outpoured for bounty and for strength. 9 These people, Indra, keep for thee all that is worthy of thy choice.

2 Whose way is unattainable like Surya's: he in each fight is the strong Vrtra−slayer, 3 Whose paths go forth in their great might resistless, forthmilking, as it were, heaven's genial moisture. 4 Among Angirases he was the chiefest, a Friend with friends, mighty amid the mighty. 5 Strong with the Rudras as with his own children, in manly battle conquering his foemen ' 6 Humbler of pride, exciter of the conflict, the Lord of heroes, God invoked of many, 7 His help hath made him cheerer in the battle, the folk have made him guardian of their comfort. 8 To him the Hero, on high days of prowess, heroes for help and booty shall betake them. 9 He with his left hand checketh even the mighty, and with his righthand gathereth up the booty. 10 With hosts on foot and cars he winneth treasures: well is he known this day by all the people. 11 When in his ways with kinsmen or with strangers he speedeth to the fight, invoked of many, 12 Awful and fierce, fiend−slayer, thunder−wielder, with boundless knowledge, hymned by hundreds, 13 Winning the light, hitherward roars his thunder like the terrific mighty voice of Heaven. 14 Whose home eternal through his strength surrounds him on every side, his laud, the earth and heaven, 15 The limit of whose power not Gods by Godhead, nor mortal men have reached, nor yet the Waters. 16 The red and tawny mare, blaze−marked, high standing, celestial who, to bring Rjrasva riches, 17 The Varsagiras unto thee, O Indra, the Mighty One, sing forth this laud to please thee, 18 He, much invoked, hath slain Dasyus and Simyus, after his wont, and laid them low with arrows. 19 May Indra evermore be our protector, and unimperilled may we win the booty.

20 To him who worships Soma gives the milchcow, a fleet steed and a man of active knowledge, 21 Invincible in fight, saver in battles, guard of our camp, winner of light and water, 22 These herbs, these milch−kine, and these running waters, all these, O Soma, thou hast generated.

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,

2 Unyoke, as at thy journey's end, O Hero, to gladden thee today at this libation. 3 When the Bull, quaffing, praises our Iibation, as a sage paying holy rites in secret, 4 When heaven's fair light by hymns was made apparent (they made great splendour shine at break of 5 Indra, Impetuous One, hath waxed immensely: he with his vastness hath filled earth and heaven. 6 Sakra who knoweth well all human actions hath with his eager Friends let loose the waters. 7 He smote away the floods' obstructer, Vrtra; Earth, conscious, lent her aid to speed thy thunder. 8 When, Much−invoked! the water's rock thou cleftest, Sarama showed herself and went before thee. 9 Come, Maghavan, Friend of Man, to aid the singer imploring thee in battle for the sunlight. 10 Come to our home resolved to slay the Dasyu: Kutsa longed eagerly to win thy friendship. 11 Thou comest, fain to succour him, with Kutsa,−a goad that masters both the Wind−God's horses, 12 For Kutsa, with thy thousand, thou at day−break didst hurl down greedy Susna, foe of harvest. 13 Thou to the son of Vidathin, Rjisvan, gavest up mighty Mrgaya and Pipru. 14 What time thou settest near the Sun thy body, thy form, Immortal One, is seen expanding: 15 Wishes for wealth have gone to Indra, longing for him in war for light and at libation, 16 Call we for you that Indra, prompt to listen, him who hath done so much for men's advantage; 17 When the sharp−pointed arrow, O thou Hero, flieth mid any conflict of the people, 18 Further the holy thoughts of Vamadeva be thou a guileless Friend in fight for booty. 19 O Indra, with these men who love thee truly, free givers, Maghavan, in every battle, 20 Now, as the Bhrgus wrought a car, for Indra the Strong, the Mighty, we our prayer have fashioned, 21 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let power swell. high like rivers for the singer.

2 For sacrifice make for us active vital power for skill and wisdom food with noble progeny. 3 Do ye, O Rbhus, make prosperity for us, prosperity for car, ye Heroes, and for steed. 4 Indra, the Rbhus' Lord, I invocate for aid, the Rbhus, Vajas, Maruts to the Soma draught. 5 May Rbhu send prosperity for battle, may Vaja conquering in the fight protect us.

2 Giver of horses, Indra, giver, thou, of kine, giver of barley, thou art Lord and guard of wealth: 3 Indra, most splendid, powerful, rich in mighty deeds, this treasure spread around is known to be thine o 4 Well pleased with these bright flames and with these Soma drops, take thou away our poverty with seed 5 Let us obtain, O Indra, plenteous wealth and food, with strength exceeding glorious, shining to the sky: 6 These our libations strength−inspiring, Soma draughts, gladdened thee in the fight with Vrtra, Hero Lor 7 Thou goest on from fight to fight intrepidly, destroying castle after castle here with strength. 8 Thou hast struck down in death Karanja, Parnaya, in Atithigva's very glorious going forth. 9 With all−outstripping chariot−wheel, O Indra, thou far−famed, hast overthrown the twice ten Kings of 10 Thou hast protected Susravas with succour, and Turvayana with thine aid, O Indra 11 May we protected by the Gods hereafter remain thy very prosperous friends, O In

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.

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.

2 Thee, worth invoking, in the din of battle, heroes invoke in fray for life and sunlight. 3 When fair bright days shall dawn on us, O Indra, and thou shalt bring thy banner near in battle, 4 Thine are we, Indra, thine, both these who praise thee, and those who give rich gifts, O God and Hero. 5 We will address this liberal Lord, this Indra that he may grant us gifts of ample riches:

2 He who with dainty food hath won you, Indra and Varuna, Gods, as his allies to friendship, 3 Indra and Varuna are most liberal givers of treasure to the men who toil to serve them, 4 Indra and Varuna, ye hurl, O Mighty, on him your strongest flashing bolt of thunder 5 O Indra−Varuna, be ye the lovers of this my song, as steers who love the milch−Cow. 6 For fertile fields, for worthy sons and grandsons, for the Sun's beauty and for steer−like vigour, 7 For you, as Princes, for your ancient kindness, good comrades of the man who seeks for booty, 8 Showing their strength, these hymns for grace, Free−givers I have gone to you, devoted, as to battle. 9 To Indra and to Varuna, desirous of gaining wealth have these my thoughts proceeded. 10 May we ourselves be lords of during riches, of ample sustenance for car and hones. 11 Come with your mighty succours, O ye Mighty; come, Indra−Varuna, to us in battle. 2 I am King Varuna. To me were given these first existinghigh celestial powers. 3 I Varuna am Indra: in their greatness, these the two wide deep fairly−fashioned regions, 4 I made to flow the moisture−shedding waters, and set the heaven firm in the scat of Order. 5 Heroes with noble horses, fain for battle, selected warriors, call on me in combat. 6 All this I did. The Gods' own conquering power never impedeth me whom none opposeth. 7 All beings know these deeds of thine thou tellest this unto Varuna, thou great Disposer! 8 Our fathers then were these, the Seven his, what time the son of Durgaha was captive. 9 The spouse of Purukutsa gave oblations to you, O Indra−Varuna, with homage. 10 May we, possessing much, delight in riches, Gods in oblations and the kine in pasture;

4 The new−born Vrtra−slayer asked his Mother, as he seized his shaft, 5 Savasi answered, He who seeks thine enmity will battle like 6 And hear, O Maghavan; to him who craves of thee thou grantest all 7 What time the Warrior Indra goes to battle, borne by noble steeds, 8 Repel, O Thunder−armed, in all directions all attacks on us: 9 May Indra set our car in front, in foremost Place to win the spoil, 10 Thine enmity may we escape, and, gakra, for thy bounty, rich 11 Softly approaching, Thunder−armed wealthy by hundreds, rich in steeds, 12 For thine exalted excellence gives to thy worshippers each day 13 Indra, we know thee breaker−down even of trong forts, winner of spoil, 14 Though thou art highest, Sage and Bold let the drops cheer thee when we come 15 Bring unto us the treasure of the opulent man who, loth to give, 16 Indra, these friends of ours, supplied with Soma, wait and look to thee, 17 And thee who art not deaf, whose cars are quick to listen, for our aid, 18 When thou hast listened, make our call one which thou never wilt forget, 19 When even now, when we have been in trouble, we have thought of thee, 20 O Lord of Strength, we rest on thee, as old men rest upon a staff: 21 To Indra sing a song of praise, Hero of mighty valour, him 22 Hero, the Soma being shed, I pour the juice for thee to drink: 23 Let not the fools, or those who mock beguile thee when they seek thine aid 24 Here let them with rich milky draught cheer thee to great munificence: 25 Proclaim in our assemblies what deeds, new and ancient, far away, 26 In battle of a thousand arms Indra drank Kadru's Soma juice:

2 At home disclose to us opulence rich in food, streaming with milk, O Indra, meet to be renowned. 3 The godless man, much−lauded Indra, whether he be Dasa or be Arya, who would war with us,− 4 Him who must be invoked by many and by few, who standeth nigh with comfort in the war of men, 5 For, Indra, I have heard thee called Self. capturer, One, Steer! who never yields, who urges even the chu

2 With him loud−roaring, ever watchful, Victor, bold, hard to overthrow, Rouser of battle, 3 He rules with those who carry shafts and quivers, Indra who with his band rings hosts together, 4 Brhaspati, fly with thy chariot hither, slayer of demons, driving off our foemen. 5 Conspicuous by thy strength, firm, foremost fighter, mighty and fierce, victorious, all−subduing, 6 Cleaver of stalls, kine−winner, armed with thunder, who quells an army and with might destroys it.− 7 Piercing the cow−stalls with surpassing vigour, Indra, the pitiless Hero, wild with anger, 8 Indra guide these: Brhaspati precede them, the guerdon, and the sacrifice, and Soma; 9 Ours be the potent host of mighty Indra, King Varuna, and Maruts, and Adityas. 10 Bristle thou up, O Maghavan, our weapons: excite the spirits of my warring heroes. 11 May Indra aid us when our flags are gathered: victorious be the arrows of our army. 12 Bewildering the senses of our foemen, seize thou their bodies and depart, O Apva. 13 Advance, O heroes, win the day. May Indra be your sure defence.

2 I stimulate thy zeal, the Strong, the Hero decking my song of praise forth; Immortal. 3 Leading, his band Indra encompassed Vrtra; weak grew the wily leader of enchanters. 4 Indra, light−winner, days' Creator, conquered, victorious, hostile bands with those who loved him. 5 Forward to fiercely falling blows pressed Indra, herolike doing many hero exploits. 6 They laud the mighty acts of him the Mighty, the many glorious deeds performed by Indra. 7 Lord of the brave, Indra who rules the people gave freedom to the Gods by might and battle. 8 Excellent, Conqueror, the victory−giver, the winner of the light and Godlike Waters, 9 He gained possession of the Sun and Horses, Indra obtained the Cow who feedeth many. 10 He took the plants and days for his possession; he gained the forest trees and air's mid−region. 11 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered, 2 For him, the God who is invoked by many, the two swift Bay Steeds to the pole I harness, 3 Bring the strong Steeds who drink the warm libation, and, Bull of Godlike nature, be thou gracious. 4 Those who are yoked by prayer I harness, fleet friendly Bays who take their joy together. 5 No other worshippers must stay beside them thy Bays, thy vigorous and smooth−backed Coursers. 6 Thine is this Sorna: hasten to approach it. Drink thou thereof, benevolent, and cease not. 7 The grass is strewn for thee, pressed is the Soma; the grain is ready for thy Bays to feed on. 8 This the sweet draught, with cows, the men, the mountains, the waters, Indra, have for thee made ready. 9 The Maruts, they with whom thou sharedst Soma, Indra, who made thee strong and were thine army,− 10 Drink, Indra, of the juice by thine own nature, or by the tongue of Agni, O thou Holy. 11 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered,

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

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

2 Thou who subduedst Ayu, Kutsa, Atithigva, waxing daily in thy might, 3 The pressing−stones shall pour for us the essence of the meath of all, 4 Repel all enmities and keep thern far away: let all win treasure for their own. 5 Come, Indra, very near to us with aids of firmly−based resolve; 6 Bless thou with progeny the chief of men, the lord of heroes, victor in the fray. 7 May we be such in battle as are surest to obtain thy grace: 8 Thine, Lord of Bays, am I. Prayer longeth for the spoil. Still with thy help I seek the fight.

1 Come, fain for booty let us seek to Indra: yet more shall he increase his care that guides us. 2 I fly to him invisible Wealth−giver as flies the falcon to his cherished eyrie, 3 Mid all his host, he bindeth on the quiver he driveth cattle from what foe he pleaseth: 4 Thou slewest with thy bolt the wealthy Dasyu, alone, yet going with thy helpers, Indra! 5 Fighting with pious worshippers, the riteless turned and fled, Indra! with averted faces. 6 They met in fight the army of the blameless. then the Navagvas put forth all their power. 7 Whether they weep or laugh, thou hast o'erthrown them, O Indra, on the sky's extremest limit. 8 Adorned with their array of gold and jewels, they o'er the earth a covering veil extended. 9 As thou enjoyest heaven and earth, O Indra, on every side surrounded with thy greatness, 10 They who pervaded earth's extremest limit subdued not with their charms the Wealth−bestower: 11 The waters flowed according to their nature; he raid the navigable streams waxed mighty. 12 Indra broke through Ilibisa's strong castles, and Suspa with his horn he cut to pieces: 13 Fierce on his enemies fell Indra's weapon: with. his sharp bull he rent their forts in pieces. 14 Indra, thou helpest Kutsa whom thou lovedst, and guardedst brave Dagadyu when he battled, 15 Svitra's mild steer, O Maghavan thou helpest in combat for the land, mid Tugra's houses.

2 This God, made ready with the hymn, runs swiftly through the winding ways, 3 This God while flowing is adorned, like a bay steed for war, by men 4 He, like a warrior going forth with heroes, as he flows along 5 This God, as he is flowing on, speeds like a car and gives his gifts: 6 Praised by the sacred bards, this God dives into waters, and bestows 7 Away he rushes with his stream, across the regions, into heaven, 8 While flowing, meet for sacrifice, he hath gone up to heaven across 9 After the 'way of ancient time, this God, pressed out for Deities, 10 This Lord of many Holy Laws, even at his birth engendering strength,

2 For I have heard that ye give wealth more freely than worthless son−in−law or spouse's brother. 3 Let us not break the cords: with this petition we strive to gain the powers of our forefathers. 4 For you the bowl divine, Indra and Agni, presses the Soma gladly to delight you. 5 You, I have heard, were mightiest, Indra−Agni, when Vrtra fell and when the spoil was parted. 6 Surpassing all men where they shout for battle, ye Twain exceed the earth and heaven in greatness. 7 Bring wealth and give it, ye whose arms wield thunder: Indra and Agni, with your powers protect us. 8 Give, ye who shatter forts, whose hands wield thunder: Indra and Agni, save us in our battles.

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

2 O Indra, Lord of Hundred Powers, may those who praise thee hitherward. 3 O Indra, Lord of Hundred Powers, with all our songs we invocate 4 We strive for glory through the powers immense of him whom many praise, 5 For Vrtra's slaughter I address Indra whom many invocate, 6 In battles be victorious. We seek thee, Lord of Hundred Powers, 7 In splendid combats of the hosts, in glories where the fight is won. 8 Drink thou the Soma for our help, bright, vigilant, exceeding strong, 9 O Satakratu, powers which thou mid the Five Races hast displayed− 10 Indra, great glory hast thou gained. Win splendid fame which none may mar 11 Come to us either from anear, Or, Sakra, come from far away.

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

1 INDRA, bring wealth that gives delight, the victor's ever−conquering wealth, Most excellent, to be ou 2 By means of which we may repel our foes in battle hand to hand, 3 Aided by thee, the thunder−armed, Indra, may we lift up the bolt, 4 With thee, O India, for ally with missile−darting heroes, may 5 Mighty is Indra, yea supreme; greatness be his, the Thunderer: 6 Which aideth those to win them sons, who come as heroes to the fight, 7 His belly, drinking deepest draughts of Soma, like an ocean swells, 8 So also is his excellence, great, vigorous, rich in cattle, like 9 For verily thy mighty powers, Indra, are saving helps at once 10 So are his lovely gifts; let lauds and praises be to Indra sung,

2 When thy two wandering Bays thou drawest hither, thy praiser laid within thine arms the thunder, 3 Faithful art thou, these thou defiest, Indra; thou art the Rbhus' Lord, heroic, victor. 4 That, as a friend, thou furtheredst, O Indra, when, Thundcrer, −strong in act, thou crushedst Vrtra; 5 This doest thou, and art not harmed, O Indra, e'en in the anger of the strongest mortal. 6 Hence men invoke thee, Indra, in the tumult of battle, in the light−bestowing conflict. 7 Warring for Purukutsa thou, O Indra, Thunder−armed I breakest down the seven castles; 8 O Indra, God who movest round about us, feed us with varied food plenteous as water− 9 Prayers have been made by Gotamas, O Indra, addressed to thee, with laud for thy Bay Horses.

1 WITH worship will I glorify thee, Agni, like a long−tailed steed, 2 May the far−striding Son of Strength, bringer of great felicity, 3 Lord of all life, from near; from far, do thou, O Agni evermore 4 O Agni, graciously announce this our oblation to the Gods, 5 Give us a share of strength most high, a share of strength that is below, 6 Thou dealest gifts, resplendent One; nigh, as with waves of Sindhu, thou 7 That man is lord of endless strength whom thou protectest in the fight, 8 Him, whosoever he may be, no man may vanquish, mighty One: 9 May he who dwells with all mankind bear us with war−steeds through the fight, 10 Help, thou who knowest lauds, this work, this eulogy to Rudra, him 11 May this our God, great, limitless, smoke−bannered excellently bright, 12 Like some rich Lord of men may he, Agni the banner of the Gods, 13 Glory to Gods, the mighty and the lesser glory to Gods the younger and the elder! 1 THERE where the broad−based stone raised on high to press the juices out, 2 Where, like broad hips, to hold the juice the platters of the press are laid, 3 There where the woman marks and leans the pestle's constant rise and fall, 4 Where, as with reins to guide a horse, they bind the churning−staff with cords, 5 If of a truth in every house, O Mortar thou art set for work, 6 O Sovran of the Forest, as the wind blows soft in front of thee, 7 Best strength−givers, ye stretch wide jaws, O Sacrificial Implements, 8 Ye Sovrans of the Forest, both swift, with swift pressers press to−day 9 Take up in beakers what remains: the Soma on the filter pour,

1 INDRA the singers with high praise, Indra reciters with their lauds, 2 Indra hath ever close to him his two bay steeds and word−yoked car, 3 Indra hath raised the Sun on high in heaven, that he may see afar: 4 Help us, O Indra, in the frays, yea, frays, where thousand spoils are gained, 5 In mighty battle we invoke Indra, Indra in lesser fight, 6 Unclose, our manly Hero, thou for ever bounteous, yonder cloud, 7 Still higher, at each strain of mine, thunder−armed Indra's praises rise: 8 Even as the bull drives on the herds, he drives the people with his might, 9 Indra who rules with single sway men, riches, and the fivefold race 10 For your sake from each side we call Indra away from other men:

21 His kine their Lord hath shown, e'en Vrtra's slayer, through the black hosts he passed with red attendan 22 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in this fight where spoil is gathered.

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

23 Ten horses and ten treasure−chests, ten garments as an added gift, 24 Ten cars with extra steed to each, for the Atharvans hundred cows, 25 Thus Srnjaya's son honoured the Bharadvajas, recipients of all noble gifts and bounty. 26 Lord of the wood, be firm and strong in body: be, bearing us, a brave victorious hero 27 Its mighty strength was borrowed from the heaven and earth: its conquering force was brought from 28 Thou Bolt of Indra, Vanguard of the Maruts, close knit to Varuna and Child of Mitra,− 29 Send forth thy voice aloud through earth and heaven, and let the world in all its breadth regard thee; 30 Thunder out strength and fill us full of vigour: yea, thunder forth and drive away all dangers. 31 Drive hither those, and these again bring hither: the War−drum speaks aloud as battle's signal.

2 We call that perfecter of worship by the path or sacrifice; with reverence rich in offerings, with worship 3 In ordered course forthwith he traverses the earth, swift−swallowing, bellowing Steer, bearing the genia 4 That Agni, wise High−Priest, in every house takes thought for sacrifice and holy service, yea, takes 5 When through his power and in his strong prevailing flames the Maruts' gladdening boons mingle with 6 Vast, universal, good he was made messenger; the speeder with his right hand hath not loosed his hold, 7 That Agni hath been set most kind in camp of men, in sacrifice like a Lord victorious, like a dear Lord i 8 Agni the Priest they supplicate to grant them wealth: him, dear, most thoughtful, have they made their 2 Hear, Indra, thou whom men in every fight must call to show thy strength, for cry of battle with the men 3 Thou, Mighty, pourest forth the hide that holds the rain, thou keepest far away, Hero, the wicked man, t 4 We. wish our Indra here that he may further you, the Friend, beloved of all, the very strong ally, in wars 5 Bow down the overweening pride of every foe with succour like to kindling−wood in fiercest flame, wit 6 This may I utter to the present Soma−drop, which, meet to be invoked, with power, awakes the prayer, 7 By thoughtful invocation this may we obtain, obtain great wealth, O Wealthy One, with Hero sons, weal 8 On, for your good and ours, come Indra with the aid of his own lordliness to drive the wicked hence, to 9 With riches in abundance, Indra, come to us, come by an unobstructed path, come by a path from demo 10 Thou art our own, O Indra, with victorious wealth: let might accompany thee, the Strong, to give us ai 11 Save us from injury, thou who art well extolled: ever the warder−off art thou of wicked ones, even as a

1 THOUGH e'en this heaven's wide space and earth have spread them out, nor heaven nor earth may be in 2 Like as the watery ocean, so doth he receive the rivers spread on all sides in their ample width. 3 Thou swayest, Indra, all kinds of great manly power, so as to bend, as't were, even that famed mountain 4 He only in the wood is praised by worshippers, when he shows forth to men his own fair Indra−power. 5 Yet verily the Warrior in his vigorous strength stirreth up with his might great battles for mankind; 6 Though, fain for glory, and with strength increased on earth, he with great might destroys the dwellings 7 Drinker of Soma, let thy heart incline to give; bring thy Bays hitherward, O thou who hearest praise. 8 Thou bearest in both hands treasure that never fails; the famed One in his body holds unvanquished mig

2 Victorious Agni, bring to us the wealth that vanquisheth in war; 3 For all the folk with one accord, whose sacred grass is trimmed and strewn, 4 For he, the God of all men, hath gotten him might that quelleth foes.

2 For here, like flies on honey, these who pray to thee sit by the juice that they have poured. 3 Longing for wealth I call on him, the Thunderer with the strong right hand, 4 These Soma juices, mixed with curd, have been expressed for Indra here. 5 May he whose ear is open hear us. He is asked for wealth: will he despise our prayer? 6 The hero never checked by men hath gained his strength through Indra, he 7 When thou dost drive the fighting men together be, thou Mighty One, the mighty's shield. 8 For Indra, Soma−drinker, armed with thunder, press the Soma juice. 9 Grudge not, ye Soma pourers; stir you, pay the rites, for wealth, to the great Conqueror. 10 No one hath overturned or stayed the car of him who freely gives. 11 Indra, that man when fighting shall obtain the spoil, whose strong defender thou wilt be. 12 His portion is exceeding great like a victorious soldier's spoil. 13 Make for the Holy Gods a hymn that is not mean, but well−arranged and fair of form. 14 Indra, what mortal will attack the man who hath his wealth in thee? 15 In battles with the foe urge on our mighty ones who give the treasures dear to thee, 16 Thine, Indra, is the lowest wealth, thou cherishest the mid−most wealth, 17 Thou art renowned as giving wealth to every one in all the battles that are fought. 18 If I, O Indra, were the Lord of riches ample as thine own, 19 Each day would I enrich the man who sang my praise, in whatsoever place he were. 20 With Plenty for his true ally the active man will gain the spoil. 21 A moral wins no riches by unworthy praise: wealth comes not to the niggard churl. 22 Like kine unmilked we call aloud, Hero, to thee, and sing thy praise, 23 None other like to thee, of earth or of the heavens, hath been or ever will be born. 24 Bring, Indra, the Victorious Ones; bring, elder thou, the younger host. 25 Drive thou away our enemies, O Maghavan: make riches easy to be won. 26 O Indra, give us wisdom as a sire gives wisdom to his sons.

2 As thine, O Indu, is the praise, and thine what springeth from the juice, 3 And, finding for us kine and steeds, O Soma, with thy juice flow on 4 As one who conquers, ne'er subdued, attacks and stays the enemy,

2 Let not the Sovran Indra disappoint us in what shall bring both Sisters to our dwelling. 3 Victorious with the men, Hero in battles, Indra, who hearsthe singer's supplication, 4 Yea,Indra, with the men, through love of gloryconsumes the sacred food which friends have offered.

2 Come with kind thoughts, most liberal, rousing the warrior's hymn of praise, with bounteous ones, 3 As nourishers we tie the thread, and, liberal with our bounty, offer sacrifice. 4 Dawn drives away her Sister's gloom, and, through her excellence, makes her retrace her path.

2 He goes to end his work with lightning flashes: wide is the seat his Asura glory gives him. 3 On most auspicious path he goes to battle he toiled to win heaven's light, full fain to gain it; 4 Fighting for kine, the prize of war, and I roaming among the berd be brings the young streams hither, 5 Bold, unsolicited for wealth, with Rudras he came, the Blameless, having left his dwelling, 6 Lord of the dwelling, he subdued the demon who roared aloud, six−eyed and triple−headed. 7 He raised himself on high and shot his arrow against the guileful and oppressive foeman. 8 He, like a cloud that rains upon the pasture, hath found for us the way to dwell in safety. 9 He with his potent Friends gave up the mighty, gave gusnia up to Kutsa for affliction. 10 He, with his Gods who love mankind, the Wondrous, giving like Varuna who works with magic, 11 Through lauds of him hath Ausija Rjisvan burst, with the Mighty's aid, the stall of Pipru. 12 So, swiftly Asura, for exaltation, hath the great Vamraka come nigh to Indra.

3 With milk they made Indra their good Preserver, lauding for help and rule the bounteous rainer. 4 With kine and horses satisfy this longing with very splendid bounty still extend it. 5 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered;

2 Yea, mighty I esteem his Godlike nature: none hindereth what he hath once determined. 3 E'en now endures thine exploit of the Rivers, when, Indra, for their floods thou clavest passage. 4 This is the truth, none else is like thee, Indra, no God superior to thee, no mortal. Thou sle 2 Through fear of thee, O Indra, all the regions of earth, though naught may move them, shake and trembl 3 With Kutsa, Indra! thou didst conquer Susna, voracious, bane of crops, in fight for cattle. 4 Thou smotest to the ground the hundred castles, impregnable, of Sambara the Dasyu, 5 As such, true Hero, for great joy of battle mount thy terrific car, O Brave and Manly. 2 Amid the sages, with the Sun he brightened the Parents: glorified, he burst the mountain; 3 Famed for great deeds, with priests who kneel and laud him, he still hath conquered in the frays for cattl 4 Come with thy girthed mares, with abundant vigour and plenteous strength to him who sings thy praises 5 Indra with rush and might, sped by his Coursers, hath swiftly won the waters from the southward.

2 Loose in the wind the woman's robe was streaming what time she won a car−load worth a thousand. 3 O Indra, cast thy bolt among assailants who would slaughter us: 4 The bull in joy had drunk a lake of water. His shattering horn encountered an opponent. 5 They came anear the bull; they made him thunder, made him pour rain down ere the fight was ended. 6 In hope of victory that bull was harnessed: Kesi the driver urged him on with shouting. 7 Deftly for him he stretched the car−pole forward, guided the bull thereto and firmly yoked him. 8 Touched by the goad the shaggy beast went nobly, bound to the pole by the yoke's thong of leather. 9 Here look upon this mace, this bull's companion, now lying midway on the field of battle. 10 Far is the evil: who hath here beheld it? Hither they bring the bull whom they are yoking.. 11 Like one forsaken, she hath found a husband, and teemed as if her breast were full and flowing. 12 Thou, Indra, art the mark whereon the eyes of all life rest, when thou,

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

2 Grown to their perfect strength greatness have they attained; the Rudras have established their abode in 3 When, Children of the Cow, they shine in bright attire, and on their fair limbs lay their golden ornament 4 When, mighty Warriors, ye who glitter with your spears, o'erthrowing with your strength e'en what is ne 5 When ye have harnessed to your cars the spotted deer, urging the thunderbolt, O Maruts, to the fray, 6 Let your swift−gliding coursers bear you hitherward with their fleet pinions. Come ye forward with you 7 Strong in their native strength to greatness have they grown, stepped to the firmament and made their 8 In sooth like heroes fain for fight they rush about, like combatants fame−seeking have they striven in w 9 When Tyastar deft of hand had turned the thunderbolt, golden, with thousand edges, fashioned more 10 They with their vigorous strength pushed the well up on high, and clove the cloud in twain though it w 11 They drave the cloud transverse directed hitherward, and poured the fountain forth for thirsting Gotam 12 The shelters which ye have for him who lauds you, bestow them threefold on the man who offers.

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

2 Invincible through Fervour, those whom Fervour hath advanced to heaven, 3 The heroes who contend in war and boldly cast their lives away, 4 Yea, the first followers of Law, Law's pure and holy strengtheners, 5 Skilled in a thousand ways and means, the sages who protect the Sun,

2 I am my rivals' slayer, like Indra unwounded and unhurt, 3 Here, verily, I bind you fast, as the two bow−ends with the string. 4 Hither I came as conqueror with mighty all−effecting power, 5 May I be highest, having gained your strength in war, your skill in peace

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

27 True undeniabIc strength he found in Yadu and in Turvasa, 28 Him have I magnified, our Lord in, common, Guardian of your folk, 29 Rbhuksan, not to be restrained, who strengthened Tugra's son in lauds, 30 Who for Trisoka clave the hill that formed a wide receptacle, 31 Whate'er thy plan or purpose be, whate'er, in transport, thou wouldst do, 32 But little hath been heard of done upon the earth by one like thee i 33 Thine then shall be this high renown, thine shall these lofty praises be, 34 Not for one trespass, not for two, O Hero, slay us, nor for three, 35 I fear one powerful like thee, the crusherdown of enemies, 36 O wealthy God, ne'er may I live to see my friend or son in need*: 37 What friend, O people, unprovoked, hath ever said unto a friend, 38 Hero, insatiate enjoy this Soma juice so near to thee, 39 Hither I draw those Bays of thine yoked 40 Drive all our enemies away, smite down the foes who press around, 41 O Tndra, that which is concealed in strong firm place precipitous: 42 Great riches which the world of men shall recognize as sent by thbe:

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;

22 Bound fast to,every tree the cow is lowing, and thence the man−consuming birds are flying, 23 In the Gods' mansion stood the first−created, and from their separation came the later. 24 This is thy life: and do thou mark and know it. As such, hide not thyself in time of battle.

2 Lord of the clan, who brings us bliss, Strong, Warrior, Slayer of the fiend, 3 Drive Raksasas and foes away, break thou in pieces Vrtra'sjaws: 4 O Indra, beat our foes away, humble the men who challenge us: 5 Baffle the foeman's plan, ward off his weapon who would conquer us.

2 Worship, thou hero, chase the arrogant afar: put on auspicious courage for the fight with foes. 3 He with his folk, his house, his family, his sons, gains booty for himself, and, with the heroes, 4 Whoso hath honoured him with offerings rich in oil, him Brahmanaspati leads forward on his way,

2 His task is done: his crushings of the Dasyus are made manifest: 3 Soon as his song of praise is born, the Soma, Indra's juice, becomes 4 Seer and Sustainer, he himself desireth riches for the sage 5 Fain would they both win riches as in races of the steeds. In war