Rig Veda on War

2 Even here is Indra famed, and among us this day the glorious Thunderer is praised, 3 He who is Sovran Lord of great and perfect strength, exerter of heroic might, 4 Harnessing to thy car, as God, two blustering Steeds Of the Wind−God, O Thunderer, 5 Even to these dark Steeds of Wind thou of thyself hast come to ride, 6 When ye approach, men ask you, thee and Usana: Why come ye to our dwelling−place? 7 O Indra, thou shalt speak us fair: our holy prayer is offered up. 8 Around us is the Dasyu, riteless, void of sense, inhuman, keeping alien laws. 9 Hero with Heroes, thou art ours: yea, strong are they whom thou dost help. 10 Urge thou these heroes on to slay the enemy, brave Thunderer! in the fight with swords. 11 Swift come those gifts of thine whose hand is prompt to rend and burn, O Hero Thunder−armed: 12 Let not thine excellent assistance come to us, O Hero Indra, profitless. 13 May those soft impulses of thine, O Indra, be fruitful and innocent to us. 14 That Earth, through power of knowing things that may be known, handless and footless yet might thriv 15 Drink, drink the Soma, Hero Indra; be not withheld as thou art good, O Treasure−giver.

2 And ye gave mighty Dadhikras, the giver of many gifts, who visiteth all people, 3 Whom, as 'twere down a precipice, swift rushing, each Puru praises and his heart rejoices,− 4 Who gaineth precious booty in the combats and moveth, winning spoil, among the cattle; 5 Loudly the folk cry after him in battles, as 'twere a thief who steals away a garment; 6 And, fain to come forth first amid these armies, this way and that with rows of cars he rushes, 7 And that strong Steed, victorious and faithful, obedient with his body in the combat, 8 And at his thunder, like the roar of heaven, those who attack tremble and are affrighted; 9 The people praise the overpowering swiftness of this fleet Steed who giveth men abundance. 10 Dadhikras hath o'erspread the Fivefold People with vigour, as the Sun lightens the waters. 2 I praise the mighty Steed who fills my spirit, the Stallion Dadhikravan rich in bounties, 3 Him who hath honoured, when the flame is kindled at break of dawn, the Courser Dadhikrivan, 4 When we remember mighty Dadhikravan our food and strength, then the blest name of Maruts, 5 Both sides invoke him as they call on Indra when they stir forth and turn to sacrificing. 6 So have I glorified with praise strong Dadhikravan, conquering Steed.

2 The Sun ascending, the refulgent Star, pours down his beams together with the Dawn. 3 Promptly we woke to welcome thee, O Usas, Daughter of the Sky, 4 Thou, dawning, workest fain to light the great world, yea, heaven, Goddess! that it may be seen. 5 Bring us that wondrous bounty, Dawn, that shall be famed most far away. 6 Give to our princes opulence and immortal fame, and strength in herds of kine to us. 2 O Indra−Varuna, mighty and very rich One of you is called Monarch and One Autocrat. 3 Ye with your strength have pierced the fountains of the floods: the Sun have ye brought forward as the 4 In battels and in frays we ministering priests, kneeling upon our knees for furtherance of our weal, 5 O Indra−Varuna, as ye created all these creatures of the world by your surpassing might, 6 That Varuna's high worth may shine preeminent, these Twain have measured each his proper power and 7 No trouble, no misfortune, Indra−Varuna, no woe from any side assails the mortal man 8 With your divine protection, Heroes, come to us: mine invncation hear, if ye be pleased therewith. 9 In battle after battle, Indra−Varuna, be ye our Champions, ye who are the peoples' strength, 10 May Indra, Varuna, Mitra, and Aryaman vouchsafe us glory and great shelter spreading far.

2 So he resplendent in the battle overcame Krivi by might. He with his majesty hath filled the earth and 3 Brought forth together with wisdom and mighty power thou grewest great; with hero deeds subduing th 4 This, Indra, was thy hero deed, Dancer, thy first and ancient work, worthy to be told forth in heaven,

2 Come hither and accept with joy this sacrifice and hymn of ours. 3 I laud thee Jatavedas, thee Lord of all blessings, with my song. 4 Agni the God was made the great High−Priest of Gods, Rsis have kindled Agni, men of mortal mould. 5 Atri and Bharadvaja and Gavisthira, Kanva and Trasadasyu, in our fight he helped.

2 He who fixed fast and firm the earth that staggered, and set at rest the agitated mountains, 3 Who slew the Dragon, freed the Seven Rivers, and drove the kine forth from the cave of Vala, 4 By whom this universe was made to tremble, who chased away the humbled brood of demons, 5 Of whom, the Terrible, they ask, Where is He? or verily they say of him, He is not. 6 Stirrer to action of the poor and lowly, of priest, of suppliant who sings his praises; 7 He under whose supreme control are horses, all chariots, and the villages, and cattle; 8 To whom two armies cry in close encounter, both enemies, the stronger and the weaker; 9 Without whose help our people never conquer; whom, battling, they invoke to give them succour; 10 He who hath smitten, ere they knew their danger, with his hurled weapon many grievous sinners; 11 He who discovered in the fortieth autumn Sambara as he dwelt among the mountains; 12 Who with seven guiding reins, the Bull, the Mighty, set free the Seven great Floods to flow at pleasure 13 Even the Heaven and Earth bow down before him, before his very breath the mountains tremble. 14 Who aids with favour him who pours the Soma and him who brews it, sacrificer, singer. 15 Thou verily art fierce and true who sendest strength to the man who brews and pours libation.

2 For him, strong, independent Ruler, Heaven and Earth have fashioned forth for power and might. 3 Fill thyself full, O Lord of wealth, O Indra, with the juice we shed. 4 Changeless in truth, O Maghavan Indra, let it be as thou in wisdom willest it. 5 Indra, with all thy saving helps give us assistance, Lord of power. 6 Increaser of our steeds and multiplying kine, a golden well, O God, art thou, 7 For thou,−come to the worshipper!−wilt find great wealth to make us rich. 8 Thou as thy gift bestowest many hundred herds, yea, many thousands dost thou give. 9 Whether the simple or the sage, Indra, have offered praise to thee, 10 If he the Strong of arm, the breaker−down of forts, the great Destroyer, hear my call, 11 We count not then as sinners, nor as niggardly or foolish men, 12 Him have we yoked in fight, the powerful Conqueror, debt−claimer, not to be deceived. 13 Indra, give us security from that whereof we are afraid. 14 For thou, O liberal Lord of bounty, strengthenest his ample home who worships thee. 15 Indra is Vrtra−slayer, guard, our best defender from the foe. 16 Defend us from behind, below, above, in front, on all sides, Indra, shield us well. 17 Protect us, Indra, each to−day, each morrow, and each following day. 18 A crushing Warrior, passing rich is Maghavan, endowed with all heroic might.

2 Well knoweth Savitar, O Child of Waters, where ocean, firmly fixt, o'erflowed its limit. 3 Then, with a full crowd of Immortal Beings, this other realm came later, high and holy. 4 As warriors to their steeds, kine to their village, as fond milk giving cows approach their youngling, 5 Like the Angirasa Hiranvastupa, I call thee, Savitar, to this achievement:

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 Surya is he: throughout the wide expanses shall Indra turn him, swift as car−wheels, hithe 4 I will send forth my songs in flow unceasing, like water from the ocean's depth, to Indra. 5 Rousing with draughts, the Shaker, rushing onward, impetuous, very strong, armed as with arrows 6 Soma hath flowed to him whom naught can equal, the earth, the heavens, the firmament, the mountains, 7 As an axe fells the tree so be slew Vrtra, brake down the strongholds and dug out the rivers. 8 Wise art thou, Punisher of guilt, O Indra. The sword lops limbs, thou smitest down the sinner, 9 Men who lead evil lives, who break agreements, and injure Varuna, Aryaman and Mitra,− 10 Indra is Sovran Lord of Earth and Heaven, Indra is Lord of waters and of mountains. 11 Vaster than days and nights, Giver of increase, vaster than firmament and flood of ocean, 12 Forward, as herald of refulgent Morning, let thine insatiate arrow fly, O Indra. 13 Him, verily, the moons, the mountains followed, the tall trees followed and the plants and herbage. 14 Where was the vengeful dart when thou, O Indra, clavest the demon ever beat on outrage? 15 Those who are set in enmity against us, the Oganas, O Indra, waxen mighty,− 16 May plentiful libations of the people, and singing Rsis' holy prayers rejoice thee. 17 O Indra, thus may we be made partakers of thy new favours that shall bring us profit. 18 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best hero in the fight where spoil is gathered,

2 That day when thou wast born thou, fain to taste it, drankest the plant's milk which the mountains nouris 3 Desiring food he came unto his Mother, and on her breast beheld the pungent Soma. 4 Fierce, quickly conquering, of surpassing vigour, he framed his body even as he listed. 5 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered;

2 give us not as a prey to death, to be destroyed by thee in wrath, 3 To gain thy mercy, Varuna, with hymns we bind thy heart, as binds 4 They flee from me dispirited, bent only on obtaining wealths 5 When shall we bring, to be appeased, the Hero, Lord of warrior might, 6 This, this with joy they both accept in common: never do they fail 7 He knows the path of birds that fly through heaven, and, Sovran of the sea, 8 True to his holy law, he knows the twelve moons with their progeny: 9 He knows the pathway of the wind, the spreading, high, and mighty wind 10 Varuna, true to holy law, sits down among his people; he, 11 From thence percerving he beholds all wondrous things, both what hath been, 12 May that Aditya, very −wise, make fair paths for us all our days: 13 Varuna, wearing golden mail, hath clad him in a shining robe. 14 The God whom enemies threaten not, nor those who tyrannize o'er men, 15 He who gives glory to mankind, not glory that is incomplete, 16 Yearning for the wide−seeing One, my thoughts move onward unto him, 17 Once more together let us speak, because my meath is brought: priest−like 18 Now saw I him whom all may see, I saw his car above the earth: 19 Varuna, hear this call of mine: be gracious unto us this day 20 Thou, O wise God, art Lord of all, thou art the King of earth and heaven 21 Release us from the upper bond, untie the bond between, and loose

2 Indu, with thee for his confederate, Indra swiftly with might pressed down the wheel of Surya. 3 Indra smote down, Agni consumed, O Indu, the Dasyus ere the noontide in the conflict. 4 Lower than all besides hast thou, O Indra, cast down the Dasyus, abject tribes of Dasas. 5 So, of a truth, Indra and Soma, Heroes, ye burst the stable of the kine and horses,

2 With kindled fire and strewn grass let him worship, and, Soma−presser, sing with stones adjusted: 3 This wife is coming near who loves her husband who carries to his home a vigorous consort. 4 No troubles vex that King in whose home Indra drinks the sharp Soma juice with milk commingled. 5 May he support in peace and win in battle: he masters both the hosts that meet together.

2 The Twain invincible in war, worthy to be renowned in frays, 3 Impetuous is their strength, and keen the lightning of the mighty Pair, 4 Indra and Agni, we invoke you both, as such, to send your cars: 5 These who give increase day by day, Gods without guile for mortal man, 6 The strength−bestowing offering thus to Indra−Agni hath been paid, as butter, purified by stones. Deal t

2 For unto thee, O Angiras, O Son of Strength, move ladles in the sacrifice. 3 Agni, thou art Disposer, Sage, Herald, bright God! and worshipful, 4 Most Youthful and Eternal, bring the longing Gods to me, the guileless, for the feast. 5 Famed art thou, Agni, far and wide, Preserver, righteous, and a Sage. 6 Shine, Most Resplendent! blaze, send bliss unto the folk, and to thy worshipper 7 O Agni, as thou burnest down to earth even high−grown underwood, 8 Give us not as a prey to mortal enemy, nor to the wicked friend of fiends. 9 Protect us, Agni, through the first, protect us through the second hymn, 10 Preserve us from each fiend who brings the Gods no gift, preserve thou us in deeds of strength: 11 O Holy Agni, give us wealth renowned with men and strengthening life. 12 Wherewith we may o'ercome our rivals in the war, o'erpowering the foe's designs. 13 Agni is even as a bull who whets and brandishes his horns. 14 Not to be stayed, O Bull, O Agni, are thy teeth when thou art spreading far and wide. 15 Thou liest in the wood: from both thy Mothers mortals kindle thee. 16 And so the seven priests, O Agni, worship thee, Free−giver, Everlasting One. 17 For you let us whose grass is trimmed call Agni, Agni, restless God. 18 Agni, with noble psalm that tells his wish he dwells, thinking on thee who guardest him. 19 Agni, Praise−singer! Lord of men, God burner−up of Raksasas, 20 Let no fiend come among us, O thou rich in light, no spell of those who deal in spells.

2 Celestial, bounteous Giver, girt about with might, rich, mountain−like, in precious things, 3 Indra, the strong and lofty hills are powerless to bar thy way. 4 A Warrior thou by strength, wisdom, and wondrous deed, in might excellest all that is. 5 For in thy might thou stretchest out beyond the boundaries of heaven. 6 When, Maghavan, thou honourest the worshipper, no one is there to stay thy wealth.

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 With Bow let us win kine, with Bow the battle, with Bow be victors in our hot encounters. 3 Close to his car, as fain to speak, She presses, holding her well−loved Friend in her embraces. 4 These, meeting like a woman and her lover, bear, mother−like, their child upon their bosom. 5 With many a son, father of many daughters, He clangs and clashes as he goes to battle. 6 Upstanding in the Car the skilful Charioteer guides his strong Horses on whithersoe'er he will. 7 Horses whose hoofs rain dust are neighing loudly, yoked to the Chariots, showing forth their vigour, 8 Car−bearer is the name of his oblation, whercon are laid his Weapons and his Armour. 9 In sweet association lived the fathers who gave us life, profound and strong in trouble, 10 The Brahmans, and the Fathers meet for Soma−draughts, and, graciously inclined, unequalled Heaven 11 Her tooth a deer, dressed in an eagle's feathers, bound with cow−hide, launched forth, She flieth onwar 12 Avoid us thou whose flight is straight, and let our bodies be as stone. 13 He lays his blows upon their backs, he deals his blows upon their thighs. 14 It compasses the arm with serpent windings, fending away the friction of the bowstring: 15 Now to the Shaft with venom smeared, tipped with deer−horn, with iron mouth, 16 Loosed from the Bowstring fly away, thou Arrow, sharpened by our prayer. 17 There where the flights of Arrows fall like boys whose locks are yet unshorn. 18 Thy vital parts I cover with thine Armour: with immortality King Soma clothe thee. 19 Whoso would kill us, whether he be a strange foe or one of us,

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.

2 They paint their bright rays on the sky's far limits. the Dawns come on like tribes arrayed for battle. 3 Wealthy, most like to Indra, Dawn hath risen, and brought forth lauds that shall promote our welfare. 4 Bestow on us, O Dawn, that ample bounty which thou didst send to those who sang thy praises; 5 Impelling every God to grant his bounty sending to us the charm of pleasant voices,

2 With heroes he shall overcome his hero foes, and spread his wealth by kine wise by himself is be. 3 He, mighty like a raving river's billowy flood, as a bull conquers oxen, overcomes with strength. 4 For him the floods of heaven flow never failing down: first with the heroes he goes forth to war for kine 5 All roaring rivers pour their waters down for him, and many a flawless shelter hath been granted him.

2 Heaven trembled at the birth of thine effulgence; Earth trembled at the fear of thy displeasure. 3 Hurling his bolt with might he cleft the mountain, while, putting forth his strength, he showed his vigou 4 Thy Father Dyaus esteemed himself a hero: most noble was the work of Indra's Maker, 5 He who alone o'erthrows the world of creatures, Indra the peoples' King, invoked of many− 6 All Soma juices are his own for ever, most gladdening draughts are ever his, the Mighty, 7 Moreover, when thou first wast born, O Indra, thou struckest terror into all the people. 8 The ever−slaying, bold and furious Indra, the bright bolt's Lord, infinite, strong and mighty, 9 Alone renowned as Maghavan in battles, he frighteneth away assembled armies. 10 Renowned is he when conquering and when slaying: 'fis he who winneth cattle in the combat. 11 Indra hath won all kine, all gold, all horses,−Maghavan, he who breaketh forts in pieces; 12 What is the care of Indra for his Mother, what cares he for the Father who begat him? 13 Maghavan makes the settled man unsettled: he scatters dust that he hath swept together, 14 He urged the chariot−wheel of Surya forward: Etasa, speeding on his way, he rested. 15 As in the night the sacrificing priest. 16 Eager for booty, craving strength and horses, we−singers stir Indra, the strong, for friendship, 17 Be thou our guardian, show thyself our kinsman, watching and blessing those who pour the Soma; 18 Be helping Friend of those who seek thy friendship. give life, when lauded, Indra, to the singer. 19 Alone, when Indra Maghavan is lauded, he slayeth many ne'er−resisted Vrtras. 20 E’en so let Maghavan, the loud−voiced Indra, give us true blessings, foeless, men's upholder. 21 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let power swell high like rivers for the singer.

2 Thou didst destroy the Dragon: thou sentest the rivers down to earth. 3 Destroyed be all malignities and all our enemy's designs. 4 The robber people round about, Indra, who watch and aim at us,− 5 Whoso assails us, Indra, be the man a stranger or akin, 6 Close to thy friendship do we cling, O Indra, and depend, or, thee. 7 Do thou bestow upon us her, O Indra, who yields according to the singer's longing,

2 Brhaspati, God immortal! verily the Gods have gained from thee, the wise, a share in holy rites. 3 When thou hast chased away revilers and the gloom, thou mountest the refulgent car of sacrifice; 4 Thou leadest with good guidance and preservest men; distress o'ertakes not him who offers gifts to thee. 5 No sorrow, no distress from any side, no foes, no creatures double−tongued have overcome the man,− 6 Thou art our keeper, wise, preparer of our paths: we, for thy service, sing to thee with hymns of praise. 7 Him, too, who threatens us without offence of ours, the evilminded, arrogant, rapacious man,− 8 Thee as protector of our bodies we invoke, thee, saviour, as the comforter who loveth us. 9 Through thee, kind −prosperer, O Brahmanaspati, may we obtain the wealth of Men which all desire: 10 With thee as our own rich and liberal ally may we, Brhaspati, gain highest power of life. 11 Strong, never yielding, hastening to the battle−cry, consumer of the foe, victorious in the strife, 12 Whoso with mind ungodly seeks to do us harm, who, deeming him a man of might mid lords, would 13 The mover mid the spoil, the winner of all wealth, to be invoked in fight and reverently adored, 14 Burn up the demons with thy fiercest flaming brand, those who have scorned thee in thy manifested mi 15 Brhaspati, that which the foe deserves not which shines among the folk effectual, splendid, 16 Give us not up to those who, foes in ambuscade, are greedy for the wealth of him who sits at ease, 17 For Tvastar, he who knows each sacred song, brought thee to life, preeminent o'er all the things that be 18 The mountain, for thy glory, cleft itself apart when, Angiras! thou openedst the stall of kine. 19 O Brahmanaspati, be thou controller of this our hymn and prosper thou our children.

2 I sing to cattle and to Earth, to trees, to Dawns, to Night, to plants. 3 Forth go, with Agni, to the Gods our sacrifice of ancient use, 4 Lords of all wealth, may they be strengtheners of man, destroyers of his enemies. 5 Come to us with one mind to−day, come to us all with one accord, 6 Send us delightful things, ye Maruts, on your steeds: come ye, O Mitra, to our gifts. 7 We who have trimmed the grass for you, and set the banquet in array, 8 O Maruts, Visinu, Asvins, Pusan, haste away with minds turned hitherward to Me. 9 Ye Guileless Gods, bestow on us a refuge strong on every side, 10 Kinship have I with you, and close alliance O ye Gods, destroyers of our foes. 11 For now have I sent forth to you, that I may win a fair reward, 12 Excellent Savitar hath mounted up on high for you, ye sure and careful Guides. 13 Singing their praise with God−like thought let us invoke each God for grace, 14 For of one spirit are the Gods with mortal man, co−sharers all of gracious gifts. 15 I laud you, O ye Guileless Gods, here where we meet to render praise. 16 He makes his house endure, he gathers plenteous food who pays obedience to your will. 17 E'en without war he gathers wealth, and goes hisway on pleasant paths, 18 E'en on the plain for him ye make a sloping path, an easy way where road is none: 19 If ye appoint the rite to−day, kind Rulers, when the Sun ascends, 20 Or, Asuras, when ye have sheltered the worshipper who goes to sacrifice, at eve 21 If ye to−day at sunrise, or at noon, or in the gloom of eve, 22 Then we, imperial Rulers, claim of you this boon, your wide protection, as a son.

2 Relax that mortal's stubborn strength whose heart is bent on wickedness. 3 Shake down, O Slayer of the foe, those great all splendid enemies. 4 As thou, O Satakratu, thou, O Indrv, shakest all things down 5 Around, on every side like drops of sweat let lightning−flashes fall. 6 Thou bearest in thine hand a lance like a long hook, great Counsellor! 7 Never, O Gods, do we offend, nor are we ever obstinate: we walk as holy texts command.

2 Brave, seeking war and booty, dwelling with the good and with the swift, may he hasten the food of Da 3 His pinion, rapid runner, fans him m his way, as of a bird that hastens onward to its aim, 4 Bound by the neck and by the flanks and by the mouth, the vigorous Courser lends new swiftness to his 5 The Hamsa homed in light, the Vasu in mid−air, the priest beside the altar, in the house the guest,

2 Men decked with gold adorn his golden tendril, incessantly with steed−impelling homage. 3 O God, for service of the Gods flow onward, for food sublime, as Indra's drink, O Soma. 4 Flow for prosperity and constant Vigour, flow on for happiness and high perfection. 5 Father of holy hymns, Soma flows onward the Father of the earth, Father of heaven: 6 Brahman of Gods, the Leader of the poets, Rsi of sages, Bull of savage creatures, 7 He, Soma Pavamana, like a river, hath stirred the wave of voice, our songs and praises. 8 As Gladdener, Warrior never harmed in battle, with thousand genial streams, pour strength and vigour. 9 Dear, grateful to the Gods, on to the beaker moves Soma, sweet to Indra, to delight him. 10 Born in old time as finder−out of treasures, drained with the stone, decking himself in waters, 11 For our sage fathers, Soma Pavamana, of old performed, by thee, their sacred duties. 12 As thou didst flow for Manu Life−bestowing, Foe−queller, Comforter, rich in oblations, 13 Flow onward, Soma, rich in sweets and holy,. enrobed in waters on the fleecy summit. 14 Pour, hundred−streamed, winner of thousands, mighty at the Gods' banquet, Pour the rain of heaven, 15 Purified with our holy hymns, this Soma o'ertakes malignities like some strong charger, 16 Cleansed by the pressers, armed with noble weapons, stream to us the fair secret name thou bearest. 17 They deck him at his birth, the lovely Infant, the Maruts with their troop adorn the Car−horse. 18 Light−winner, Rsi−mindcd, Rsi−maker, hymned in a thousand hymns, Leader of sages, 19 Hawk seated in the bowls, Bird wide−extended, the Banner seeking kine and wielding weapons, 20 Like a fair youth who decorates his body, a courser rushing to the gain of riches, 21 Flow on with might as Pavamana, Indu flow loudly roaring through the fleecy filter. 22 His streams have been effused in all their fulness, and he hath entered, balmed with milk, the goblets.

2 Not far for thee are mid−air's loftiest regions: start hither, Lord of Bays, with thy Bay Horses. 3 Fair cheeks hath Indra, Maghavan, the Victor, Lord of a great host, Stormer, strong in action. 4 For, overthrowing what hath ne'er been shaken, thou goest forth alone destroying Vrtras. 5 Yea, Much−invoked! in safety through thy glories alone thou speakest truth as Vrtra's slayer. 6 Forthwith thy Bay steeds down the steep, O Indra, forth, crushing foemen, go thy bolt of thunder! 7 The man to whom thou givest as Provider enjoys domestic plenty undivided. 8 Thou, Indra, Much−invoked! didst crush to pieces Kunaru handless fiend who dwelt with Danu. 9 Thou hast established in her seat, O Indra, the level earth, vast, vigorous, unbounded. 10 He who withheld the kine, in silence I yielded in fear before thy blow, O Indra. 11 Indra alone filled full the earth and heaven, the Pair who meet together, rich in treasures. 12 Surya transgresses not the ordered limits set daily by the Lord of Tawny Coursers. 13 Men gladly in the course of night would look on the broad bright front of the refulgent Morning; 14 A mighty splendour rests upon her bosom: bearing ripe milk the Cow, unripe, advances. 15 Barring the way they come. Be firm, O Indra; aid friends to sacrifice and him who singeth. 16 A cry is beard from enemies most near us: against them send thy fiercest−flaming weapon. 17 Root up the race of Raksasas, O Indra rend it in front and crush it in the middle. 18 When borne by strong Steeds for our weal, O Leader, thou seatest thee at many noble viands. 19 Bestow on us resplendent wealth. O Indra let us enjoy thine overflow of bounty. 20 With kine and horses satisfy this longing with very splendid bounty skill extend it. 21 Lord of the kine, burst the kine's stable open: cows shall be ours, and strength that wins the booty. 22 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in this fight where spoil is gathered,

2 Then Will I, when I lead my friends to battle against the radiant persons of the godless, 3 I know not him who sayeth and declareth that he hath slain the godless in the battle. 4 While yet my deeds of might were unrecorded, all passed for Maghavans though I existed. 5 None hinder me in mine heroic exploits, no, not the mountains when I will and purpose. 6 To see the Indraless oblation−drinkers, mean offerers, o'ertaken by destruction! 7 Thou wast, thou grewest to full vital vigour: an earlier saw, a later one shall see thee. 8 The freed kine eat the barley of the pious. 1 saw them as they wandered with the herdsman. 9 When we who cat the grass of men are gathered I am with barley−eaters in the corn−land. 10 There wilt thou hold as true my spoken purpose, to bring together quadrupeds. and bipeds. 11 When a man's daughter hath been ever eyeless, who, knowing, will be wroth with her for blindness? 12 How many a maid is pleasing to the suitor who fain would marry for her splendid riches? 13 His feet have grasped: he eats the man who meets him. Around his head he sets the head for shelter. 14 High, leafless, shadowless, and swift is Heaven: the Mother stands, the Youngling, loosed, is feeding. 15 Seven heroes from the nether part ascended, and from the upper part came eight together. 16 One of the ten, the tawny, shared in common, they send to execute their final purpose. 17 The Heroes dressed with fire the fatted wether: the dice were thrown by way of sport and gaming. 18 Crying aloud they ran in all directions: One half of them will cook, and not the other. 19 I saw a troop advancing from the distance moved, not by wheels but their own God−like nature. 20 These my two Bulls, even Pramara's, are harnessed: drive them not far; here let them often linger. 21 This is the thunderbolt which often whirleth down from the lofty misty realm of Surya.

23 When he goes forth, ye Pair of Kings, for booty, speeding to war and praise to please the singer,− 24 Now for this noble man's support and comfort, singing with easy voice we thus implore thee: 25 If, for our strength, the priest with adoration to win your friendship made the laud accepted, 26 Glorified thus, with holy hymns and homage:−Of noble race, with Waters, God−attended 27 Be to us, then, ye Gods who merit worship, be ye of one accord our strong protection,

2 Let not the Gods here injure us, O Agni, nor Fathers of old time who know the region, 3 My wishes fly abroad to many places: I glance back to the ancient sacrifices. 4 King Universal, born to sundry quarters, extended through the wood be lies on couches. 5 Lodged in old plants, he grows again in younger, swiftly within the newly−born and tender. 6 Now lying far away, Child of two Mothers, he wanders unrestrained, the single youngling. 7 Child of two Mothers, Priest, sole Lord in synods, he still precedes while resting as foundation. 8 As to a friendly warrior when he battles, each thing that comes anear is seen to meet him. 9 Deep within these the hoary envoy pierceth; mighty, he goeth to the realm of splendour, 10 Visnu, the guardian, keeps the loftiest station, upholding dear, immortal dwelling−places. 11 Ye, variant Pair, have made yourselves twin beauties: one of the Twain is dark, bright shines the other; 12 Where the two Cows, the Mother and the Daughter, meet and give suck yielding their lordly nectar, 13 Loud hath she lowed, licking the other's youngling. On what world hath the Milch−cow laid her udder 14 Earth weareth beauties manifold: uplifted, licking her Calf of eighteen months, she standeth. 15 Within a wondrous place the Twain are treasured: the one is manifest, the other hidden. 16 Let the milch−kine that have no calves storm downward, yielding rich nectar, streaming, unexhausted, 17 What time the Bull bellows in other regions, another herd receives the genial moisture; 18 Let us declare the Hero's wealth in horses, O all ye folk: of this the Gods have knowledge. 19 Tvastar the God, the omniform. Creator, begets and feeds mankind in various manner. 20 The two great meeting Bowls hath he united: each of the Pair is laden with histreasure. 21 Yea, and on this our earth the All−Sustainer dwells like a King with noble friends about him. 22 Rich in their gifts for thee are herbs and waters, and earth brings all her wealth for thee, O Indra.

2 Who will be gracious? Who will come most uickly of all the Gods? Who will 3 So many days do ye come swiftly hither, as Indra to give help in stress of battle. 4 What is the prayer that we should bring you, Asvins, whereby ye come to us when invocated? 5 In the wide space your chariot reacheth heaven, what time it turneth hither from the ocean. 6 Let Sindhu with his wave bedew your horses: in fiery glow have the red birds come hither.

27 Grant that no mighty foes, unknown, malevolent, unhallowed, tread us to the ground. 2 With soma they brought Indra from a distance, Over Vaisanta, from the strong libation. 3 So, verily, with these he crossed the river, in company with these he slaughtered Bheda. 4 I gladly, men I with prayer prayed by our fathers have fixed your axle: ye shall not be injured: 5 Like thirsty men they looked to heaven, in battle with the Ten Kings, surrounded and imploring. 6 Like sticks and staves wherewith they drive the cattle, Stripped bare, the Bharatas were found defencele 7 Three fertilize the worlds with genial moisture: three noble Creatures cast a light before them. 8 Like the Sun's growing glory is their splendour, and like the sea's is their unflathomed greatness. 9 They with perceptions of the heart in secret resort to that which spreads a thousand branches. 10 A form of lustre springing from the lightning wast thou, when Varuna and Mitra saw thee. 11 Born of their love for Urvasi, Vasistha thou, priest, art son of Varuna and Mitra; 12 He thinker, knower both of earth and heaven, endowed with many a gift, bestowing thousands, 13 Born at the sacrifice, urged by adorations, both with a common flow bedewed the pitcher. 14 He brings the bearer of the laud and Saman: first shall he speak bringing the stone for pressing. 3 Yea, the broad waters swell their flood ior him: of him strong heroes think amid their foes. 4 Set ye for him the coursers to the pole: like Indra Thunderer is the Golden−armed. 5 Arouse you, like the days, to sacrifice speed gladly like a traveller on the way. 6 Go swift to battles, to the sacrifice: set up a flag, a hero for the folk. 7 Up from his strength hath risen as 'twere a light: it bears the load as earth bears living things. 8 Agni, no demon I invoke the Gods: by law completing it, I form a hymn. 9 Closely albout you lay your heavenly song, and send your voice to where the Gods abide.

2 With all the Holy Thoughts, all being Mighty Ones! in close alliance wil the Mountains, Heaven, and E 3 With all the Deities, three times eleven, here, in close alliance with the Maruts, Bhrgus, Floods; 4 Accept the sacrifice, attend to this my call: come nigh, O ye Twain Gods, to all libations here. 5 Accept our praise−song as a youth accepts a maid. Come nigh, O ye Twain Gods, to all libations here. 6 Accept the songs we sing, accept the solemn rite. Conie nigh, O ye Twain Gods, to all libations here. 7 Ye fly as starlings fly unto the forest trees; like buffaloes ye seek the Soma we have shed. 8 Ye fly like swans, like those who travel on their way; like buffaloes ye seek the Soma we have shed. 9 Ye fly to our oblation like a pair of hawks; like buffaloes ye seek the Soma we have shed. 10 Come hitherward and drink and satisfy yourselves, bestow upon us progeny and affluence. 11 Conquer your foes, protect us, praise your worshippers; bestow upon us progeny and affluence. 12 Slay enemies, animate men whom ye befriend; bestow upon us progeny and aff luence. 13 With Mitra, Varuna, Dharma, and the Maruts in your company approach unto your praiser's call. 14 With Visnu and the Angirases attending you, and with the Maruts come unto your praiser's call. 15 With Rbhus and With Vajas. O ye Mighty Ones, leagued with the Maruts come ye to your praiser's cal 16 Give spirit to our prayer and animate our thoughts; slay ye the Raksasas and drive away disease. 17 Strengthen the Ruling Power, strengthen the men of war; slay ye the Raksasas and drive away disease. 18 Give strength unto the milch−kine, give the people strength, slay ye the Raksasas and drive away disea 19 As ye heard Atri's earliest eulogy, so hear Syavasva, Soma−presser, ye who reel in joy. 20 Further like running streams Syavasva's eulogies who presses out the Soma, ye who reel in joy. 21 Seize, as ye grasp the reins, Syavasva's solemn rites who presses out the Soma, ye who reel in joy.

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

2 Borne on by rapid steeds of mighty pinion, or proudly trusting in the Gods' incitements. 3 Yea, Asvins, as a dead man leaves his riches, Tugra left Bhujyu in the cloud of waters. 4 Bhujyu ye bore with winged things, Nasatyas, which for three nights, three days full swiftly travelled, 5 Ye wrought that hero exploit in the ocean which giveth no support, or hold or station, 6 The white horse which of old ye gave Aghasva, Asvins, a gift to be his wealth for ever,− 7 O Heroes, ye gave wisdom to Kaksivan who sprang from Pajra's line, who sang your praises. 8 Ye warded off with cold the fire's fierce burning; food very rich in nouripliment ye furnished. 9 Ye lifted up the well, O ye Nasatyas, and set the base on high to open downward. 10 Ye from the old Cyavana, O Nasatyas, stripped, as 'twere mail, the skin upon 11 Worthy of praise and worth the winning, Heroes, is that your favouring succour O Nasatyas, 12 That mighty deed of yours, for gain, O Heroes, as thunder heraldeth the rain, I publish, 13 In the great rite the wise dame called, Nasatyas, you, Lords of many treasures, to assist her. 14 Ye from the wolf's jaws, as ye stood together, set free the quail, O Heroes, O Nasatyas. 15 When in the time of night, in Khela's battle, a leg was severed like a wild bird's pinion, 16 His father robbed Rjrasva of his eyesight who for the she−wolf slew a hundred wethers. 17 The Daughter of the Sun your car ascended, first reaching as it were the goal with coursers. 18 When to his house ye came, to Divodasa, hasting to Bharadvaja, O ye Asvins, 19 Ye, bringing wealth with rule, and life with offspring, life rich in noble heroes; O Nasatyas, 20 Ye bore away at night by easy pathways Jahusa compassed round on every quarter, 21 One morn ye strengthened Vaga for the battle, to gather spoils that might be told in thousands. 22 From the deep well ye raised on high the water, so that Rcatka's son, Sara, should drink it; 23 To Visvaka, Nasatyas!

2 Laid in the bowl, pure−flowing on to Vayu and the Asvins, may 3 Soma, as thou art purified, incite to bounty Indra's heart, 4 The ten swift fingers deck thee forth, seven ministers impel thee on: 5 When through the filter thou art poured, we clothe thee with a robe of milk 6 When purified within the jars, Soma, brightred and golden−hued, 7 Flow on to us and make us rich. Drive all our enemies away. 9 May we obtain thee, Indra's drink, who viewest men and findest light,

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 To him the guidance−following songs of praise flow full, as those who seek gain go in company to the 3 Victorious, great is he; in manly battle shines, unstained with dust, his might, as shines a mountain peak 4 When Strength the Goddess, made more strong for help by thee, waits upon Indra as the Sun attends the 5 When thou with might, upon the framework of the heaven, didst fix, across, air's region firmly, unremo 6 Thou with thy might didst grasp,the holder−up of heaven, thou who art mighty also in the seats of earth.

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

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

2 All that is bare he covers o'er, all that is sick he medicines; 3 Thou, Soma, givest wide defence against the hate of alien men, 4 Thou by thine insight and thy skill, Impetuous One, from heaven and earth 5 When to their task they come with zeal, may they obtain the Giver's grace, 6 So may he find what erst was lost, so may be speed the pious man, 7 Gracious, displaying tender love, unconquered, gentle in thy thoughts, 8 O Soma, terrify us not; strike us not with alarm, O King: 9 When in my dwelling−place I see the wicked enemies of Gods,

2 O Indu, while they cleanse thee bring, O Soma, doubly−waxing wealth 3 Set free the. song which mind hath yoked, even as thunder frees the rain: 4 Thy stream when thou art pressed runs on like some victorious warrior's steed 5 Flow on, Sage Soma, with thy stream to give us mental power and strength, 6 Flow to the filter with thy stream, effused, best winner, thou, of spoil, 7 The mothers, void of guiles, caress thee Golden−coloured, in the sieve, 8 Thou, Pavamana, movest on with wondrous rays to great renown. 9 Lord of great sway, thou liftest thee above the heavens, above the earth.

1 O BRAMANASPATI, stand up: God−serving men we pray to thee. 2 O Son of Strength, each mortal calls to thee for aid when spoil of battle waits for him. 3 May Brahmanaspati draw nigh, may Sunrta the Goddess come, 4 He who bestows a noble guerdon on the priest wins fame that never shall decay. 5 Now Brahmanaspati speaks forth aloud the solemn hymn of praise, 6 May we in holy synods, Gods! recite that hymn, peerless, that brings felicity. 7 Who shall approach the pious? who the man whose sacred grass is trimmed? 8 He amplifies his lordly might, with kings he slays: e'en mid alarms he dwells secure

2 Come, Indra, to this gladdening drink, placed on the grass, pressed out with stones: 3 To Indra have my songs of praise gone forth, thus rapidly sent hence, 4 Hither with songs of praise we call Indra to drink the Soma juice: 5 Indra, these Somas are expressed. Take them within thy belly, Lord 6 We know thee winner of the spoil, and resolute in battles, Sage! 7 Borne hither by thy Stallions, drink, Indra, this juice which we have pressed, 8 Indra, for thee, in thine own place, I urge the Soma for thy draught: 9 We call on thee, the Ancient One, Indra, to drink the Soma juice,

2 Lead us anew to happiness, O Agni; lead us beyond all danger and affliction. 3 Far from us, Agni, put thou all diseases let them strike lauds that have no saving Agni. 4 Preserve us, Agni, with perpetual succour, refulgent in the dwelling which thou lovest. 5 Give not us up a prey to sin, O Agni, the greedy enemy that brings us trouble; 6 Such as thou art, born after Law, O Agni when lauded give protection to our bodies, 7 Thou, well discerning both these classes, comest to men at early morn, O holy Agni. 8 To him have we addressed our pious speeches, I, Mana's son, to him victorious Agni.

2 Thy birth who seekest food is in the falling flood, Agni: as Comrade thou winnest all living things. 3 And thou, O Agni, thou of Godlike nature, sparest the stones, while caring up the brushwood. 4 O'er hills through vales devouring as thou goest, thou partest like an army fain for booty 5 Apparent are his lines as he approaches the course is single, but the cars are many, 6 Now let thy strength, thy burning flames fly upward, thine energies, O Agni, as thou toilest. 7 This is the waters' reservoir, the great abode of gathered streams. 8 On thy way hitherward and hence let flowery Durva grass spring up

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

2 Let no malignity prevail against us, either God's or man's. 3 So through thy favour may we force through all our enemies a way, 4 Thou, Purifier Agni, high shinest forth, bright, adorable, 5 Ours art thou, Agni, Bharata, honoured by us with barren cows, 6 Wood−fed, bedewed with sacred oil, ancient, Invoker, excellent, 2 Who, guiding worshippers aright, withers, untouched by age, the foe: 3 Who for his glory is extolled at eve and morning in our homes, 4 Who shines refulgent like the Sun, with brilliance and with fiery flame, 5 Him Atri, Agni, have our songs Strengthened according to his sway: 6 May we with Agni's, Indra's help, with Soma's, yea, of all the Gods,

5 Mighty and strong he waxed for hero exploit: the Bull was furnished a Sage's wisdom. 6 As floods according to their stream flow onward, so to the sea, as borne on cars, the waters. 7 Eager to mingle with the sea, the rivers carry the well−pressed Soma juice to Indra. 8 Like lakes appear his flanks filled full with Soma: yea, he contains libations in abundance. 9 Then bring thou hither, and let none prevent it: we know thee well, the Lord of wealth and treasure. 10 O Indra, Maghavan, impetuous mover, grant us abundant wealth that brings all blessings. 11 Call we on Indra, Maghavan, auspicious, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered,

2 Bring us the wealth that men require, a manly master of a house, 3 Even him who would not give, do thou, 4 Clear paths that we may win the prize; scatter our enemies afar. 5 Penetrate with an awl, O Sage, the hearts of avaricious churls, 6 Thrust with thine awl, O Pusan: seek that which the niggard's heart holds dear, 7 Tear up and read in pieces, Sage, the hearts of avaricious churls, 8 Thou, glowing Pusan, carriest an awl that urges men to prayer; 9 Thou bearest, glowing Lord! a goad with horny point that guides the cows 10 And make this hymn of ours produce kine, horses, and a store of wealth

2 Drive, Pusan, from our road the wolf, the wicked inauspicious wolf, 3 Who lurks about the path we take, the robber with a guileful heart: 4 Tread with thy foot and trample out the firebrand of the wicked one, 5 Wise Pusan, Wonder−Worker, we claim of thee now the aid wherewith 6 So, Lord of all prosperity, best wielder of the golden sword, 7 Past all pursuers lead us, make pleasant our path and fair to tread: 8 Lead us to meadows rich in grass: send on our way no early heat: 9 Be gracious to us, fill us full, give, feed us, and invigorate: 10 No blame have we for Pusan; him we magnify with songs of praise:

2 Come our true Friend, passing by many people; come with thy two Bay Steeds to our devotions; 3 Pleased, with thy Bay Steeds, Indra, God, come quickly to this our sacrifice that heightens worship; 4 Yea, let thy two Bay Stallions bear thee hither, well limbed and good to draw, thy dear companions. 5 Wilt thou not make me guardian of the people, make me, impetuous Maghavan, their ruler? 6 Yoked to thy chariot, led thy tall Bays, Indra, companions of thy banquet, bear thee hither, 7 Drink of the strong pressed out by strong ones, Indra, that which the Falcon brought thee when thou 8 Call we on Indra, Makhavan, auspicious, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered;

2 O Mighty Agni, thou must be glorified at our festivals, 3 O Jatavedas Agni, fight and drive our foes afar from us, 4 Thou, Jatavedas, seekest not the worship of a hostile man, 5 We sages, mortals as we are, adore the mighty name oof thee, 6 Sages, we call the Sage to help, mortals, we call the God to aid: 7 May Vatsa draw− thy mind away even from thy loftiest dwelling−place, 8 Thou art the same in many a place: mid all the people thou art Lord. 9 When we are seeking strength we call Agni to help us in the strife, 10 Ancient, adorablie at sacrifices, Priest from of old, meet for our praise, thou sittest.

1 As a good cow to him who milks, we call the doer of fair deeds, 2 Come thou to our libations, drink of Soma; Soma−drinker thou! 3 So may we be acquainted with thine innermost benevolence: 4 Go to the wise unconquered One, ask thou of Indra, skilled in song, 5 Whether the men who mock us say, Depart unto another place, 6 Or whether, God of wondrous deeds, all our true people call us blest, 7 Unto the swift One bring the swift, man−cheering, grace of sacrifice, 8 Thou, Satakratu, drankest this and wast the Vrtras' slayer; thou 9 We strengthen, Satakratu, thee, yea, thee the powerful in fight, 10 To him the mighty stream of wealth, prompt friend ot'him who pours the juice,

2 Grown mighty in his strength, with ample vigour, he as a foe strikes fear into the Dasa, 3 All concentrate on thee their mental vigour, what time these, twice or thrice, are thine assistants. 4 Therefore in thee too, thou who winnest riches, at every banquet are the sages joyful. 5 Proudly we put our trust in thee in battles, when we behold great wealth the prize of combat. 6 Worthy of praises, many−shaped, most skilful, most energetic, Aptya of the Aptyas: 7 Thou in that house which thy protection guardeth bestowest wealth, the higher and the lower. 8 Brhaddiva, the foremost of light−winners, repeats these holy prayers, this strength of Indra. 9 Thus hath Brhaddiva, the great Atharvan, spoken to Indra as himself in person.

2 May we, when this Dawn and the next dance hither, be thy best servants, most heroic Hero! 3 What was the gladdening draught that pleased thee, Indra? Speed through our doors to songs, for thou ar 4 Indra, what fame hath one like thee mid heroes? With what plan wilt thou act? Why hast thou sought us 5 Speed happily those, as Surya ends his journey, who meet his wish as bridegrooms meet their spouses; 6 Thine are two measures, Indra, wide−wellmeted, heaven for thy majesty, earth for thy wisdom. 7 They have poured out a bowl to him, to Indra, full of sweet juice, for faithful is his bounty. 8 Indra hath conquered in his wars, the Mighty: men strive in multitudes to win his friendship.