Rig Veda on Wealth

2 What time on these, as on a dry skin lying in the pool's bed, the floods of heaven descended, 3 When at the coming of the Rains the water has poured upon them as they yearned and thirsted, 4 Each of these twain receives the other kindly, while they are revelling in the flow of waters, 5 When one of these repeats the other's language, as he who learns the lesson of the teacher, 6 Onc is Cow−bellow and Goat−bleat the other, one Frog is Green and one of them is Spotty. 7 As Brahmans, sitting round the brimful vessel, talk at the Soma−rite of Atiratra, 8 These Brahmans with the Soma juice, performing their year−long rite, have lifted up their voices; 9 They keep the twelve month's God−appointed order, and never do the men neglect the season. 10 Cow−bellow and Goat−bleat have granted riches, and Green and Spotty have vouchsafed us treasure.

2 For ye Twain, Indra, Soma, are Lords of the light, Lords of the kine: 3 The tawny Steer, while cleansed among the living, bellowing on the grass, 4 Over the Steer's productive flow the sacred songs were resonant, 5 Hath he not, purified, impregned the kine whb long to meet their Lord, 6 Bring near us those who stand aloof strike fear into our enemies: 7 Soma, bring down the foeman's might, his vigorous strength and vital powe'r, 2 For he, as Pavamana, sends thousandfold treasure in the shape 3 Thou graspest all things with thy mind, and purifiest thee with thoughts 4 Pour lofty glory on us, send sure riches to our liberal lords, 5 As thou art cleansed, O Wondrous Steed, O Soma, thou hast entered, like 6 He, Soma, like a courser in the floods invincible, made clean 7 Disporting, like a liberal chief, thou goest, Soma, to the sieve,

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

2 Through your kind favour, Gods, on some auspicious day, the worshipper subdues his foes. 3 Vasistha will not overlook the lowliest one among you all. 4 Your succour in the battle injures not the man to whom ye, Heroes, grant your gifts. 5 Come hitherward to drink the juice, O ye whose bounties give you joy. 6 Sit on our sacred grass, be graciously inclined to give the wealth for which we long, 7 Decking the beauty of their forms in secret the Swans with purple backs have flown down hither. 8 Maruts, the man whose wrath is hard to master, he who would slay us ere we think, O Vasus, 9 O Maruts, ye consuming Gods, enjoy this offering brought for you, 10 Sharers of household sacrifice, come, Maruts, stay not far away, 11 Here, Self−strong Maruts, yea, even here. ye Sages with your sunbright skins 12 Tryambaka we worship, sweet augmenter of prosperity.

7 Blest, Agni, be the man, the liberal giver, who with his lauds and regular oblation 8 I praise thy gracious favour: sing in answer. May this my song sing like a loved one with thee. 9 Here of free choice let each one serve thee richly, resplendent day by day at eve and morning. 10 Whoso with good steeds and fine gold, O Agni, comes nigh thee on a car laden with trcasure, 11 Through words and kinship I destroy the miglity: this power I have from Gotama my father. 12 Knowing no slumber, speedy and propitious, alert and ever friendly, most unwearied, 13 Thy guardian rays, O Agni, when they saw him, preserved blind Mamateya from affliction. 14 Aided by thee with thee may we be wealthy, may we gain strength with thee to guide us onward. 15 O Agni, with this fuel will we serve thee; accept the laud we sing to thee with favour

2 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 Agni, do thou accept my laud, be magnified by this my song: 3 Agni, envoy, I place in front; the oblation−bearer I address: 4 Agni, the lofty flames of' thee enkindled have gone up on high, 5 Beloved! let my ladles full of sacred oil come near to thee: 6 I worship Agni−may he hear!−the cheerful, the Invoker, Priest, 7 Ancient Invoker, meet for praise, beloved Agni, wise and strong, 8 Agni, best Angiras, accept straightway these offerings, and guide 9 Excellent God, with brilliant flames, enkindled bring thou hitherward, 10 Him, Sage and Herald, void of guile, ensign of sacrifices, him 11 O Agni, be our Guardian thou, God, against those who injure us: 12 Making his body beautiful, Agni the Sage hath waxen by 13 I invocate the Child of Strength, Agni with purifying flame, 14 So Agni, rich in many friends, with fiery splendour, seat thyself 15 The mortal man who serves the God Agni within his own abode, 16 Agni is head and height of heaven, the Master of the earth is he: 17 Upward, O Agni, rise thy flames, pure and resplendent, blazing high, 18 For, Agni, thou as Lord of Light rulest o'er choicest gifts: may I, 19 O Agni, they who understand stir thee to action with their thoughts: 20 We ever claim the friendship of Agni, the singing messenger, 21 Agni who bears most holy sway, the holy Singer, holy Sage, 22 Yea, let my meditations, let my songs exalt thee evermore. 23 If I were thou and thou wert I, O Agni, every prayer of thine 24 For Excellent and Lord of wealth. art thou O Agni, rich in light: 25 Agni, to thee whose laws stand fast our resonant songs of praise speed forth, 26 Agni, the Youthful Lord of men, who stirreth much and eateth all, 27 To Agni let us haste with lauds, the Guide of sacrificial rites, 28 And let this man, good Agni, be with thee the singer of thy praise: 29 For thou art sharer of our feast, wise, ever watchful as a Sage: 30 O Agni, Sage, before our foes, before misfortunes fall on us,

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 Our sires of old,. Navagvas, sages seven, while urging him to show his might, extolled him, 3 We seek that Indra to obtain his riches that bring much food, and men, and store of heroes. 4 Tell thou us this, if at thy hand aforetime the earlier singers have obtained good fortune, 5 He who for car−borne Indra, armed with thunder, hath a hymn, craving, deeply−piercing, fluent, 6 Strong of thyself, thou by this art hast shattered, with thought−swift Parvata, him who waxed against th 7 Him will we fit for you with new devotion, the strongest Ancient One, in ancient manner. 8 Thou for the people who oppress hast kindled the earthly firmament and that of heaven. 9 Of all the Heavenly Folk, of earthly creatures thou art the King, O God of splendid aspect. 10 Give us confirmed prosperity, O Indra, vast and exhaustless for the foe's subduing. 11 Come with thy team which brings all blessings hither, Disposer, much−invoked, exceeding holy.

2 Washed by the men, pressed out with stones, strained through the filter made of wool, 3 This juice have we made sweet for thee like barley, blending it with milk. 4 Beloved of all, Indra alone drinks up the flowing Soma juice 5 The Friend, whom not the brilliant−hued, the badly−mixt or bitter draught, 6 While other men than we with milk chase him as hunters chase a deer, 7 For him, for Indra, for the God, be pressed three draughts of Soma juice 8 Three reservoirs exude their drops, filled are three beakers to the brim, 9 Pure art thou, set in many a place, and blended in the midst with milk 10 Here, Indra, are thy Soma−draughts pressed out by us, the strong, the pure: 11 O Indra, pour in milk, prepare the cake, and mix the Soma−draught. 12 Quaffed juices fight within the breast. The drunken praise not by their wine, 13 Rich be the praiser of one rich, munificent and famed like thee: 14 Foe of the man who adds no milk, he heeds not any chanted hymn 15 Give us not, Indra, as a prey unto the scornful or the proud: 16 This, even this, O Indra, we implore. as thy devoted friends, 17 Naught else, O Thunderer, have I praised in the skilled singer's eulogy: 18 The Gods seek him who presses out the Soma; they desire not sleep 19 Come hither swift with gifts of wealth − be not thou angry with us−like 20 Let him not, wrathful with us, spend the evening far from us to−day, 21 For well we know this Hero's love, most liberal of the boons he gives, 22 Pour forth the gift which Kanvas bring, for none more glorious do we know 23 O presser, offer Soma first to Indra, Hero, Sakra, him 24 Who, in untroubled ways, is best provider, for his worshippers. 25 Pressers, for him blend Soma juice, each draught most excellent, for him 26 The Vrtra−slayer drinks the juice. May he who gives a hundred aids 27 May the strong Bay Steeds, yoked by prayer, bring hither unto us our Friend, 28 Sweet are the Soma juices, come! Blent are the Soma juices, come!

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

2 Draw thy Friend to thee like a cow at milking: O Singer, wake up Indra as a lover. 3 Why, Maghavan, do they call thee Bounteous; Giver? Quicken me: thou, I hear, art he who quickens. 4 Standing, in battle for their rights, together, the people, Indra, in the fray invoke thee. 5 Whoso with plenteous food for him expresses strong Somas as much quickly−coming treasure, 6 He unto whom we offer praises, Indra, Maghavan, who hath joined to ours his wishes,− 7 With thy fierce bolt, O God invoked of many, drive to a distance from afar the foeman. 8 Indra, the swallower of strong libations rich in the boons they bring, the potent Somas, 9 Yea, by superior play he wins advantage, when he, a gambler, piles his gains in season. 10 O Much−invoked, may we subdue all famine and evil want with store of grain and cattle. 11 Brhaspati protect us from the rearward, and from above, and from below, from sinners!

2 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 O Indra, drink the Soma juice pressed out with stones. poured from the reservoir, as an ox drinks the spr 3 He found the treasure brought from heaven that lay concealed, close−hidden, like the nestling of a bird, 4 Grasping his thunderbolt with both hands, Indra made its edge most keen, for hurling, like a carving−kn 5 Thou, Indra, without effort hast let loose the floods to run their free course down, 6 Eager for riches, men have formed for thee this song, like as a skilful craftsman fashioneth a car, so hav 7 For Puru thou hast shattered, Indra ninety forts, for Divodasa thy boon servant with thy bolt, O Dancer, 8 Indra in battles help his Aryan worshipper, he who hath hundred helps at hand in every fray, in frays tha 9 Waxed strong in might at dawn he tore the Sun's wheel off. Bright red, he steals away their speech, the 10 Lauded with our new hymns, O vigorous in deed, save us with strengthening help, thou Shatterer of th

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

2 To Indra from all sides go forth my songs of praise, the Lord of Hundred Powers, strong, Hero, like the 3 Where battle's spoil is piled the singer winneth praise, for Indra taketh care of matchless worshippers. 4 Thee, valorous, most heroic of the heroes, shall the priests glorify with songg and praises. 5 Abundant are the gifts he gives to mortals: for him the earth bears a rich store of treasures. 6 To thee, O Indra, Lord of Bays, for ever are offered prayers and songs: accept them gladly. 7 Here, Indra, drink thou Soma with the Maruts, as thou didst drink the juice beside Saryata. 8 So eagerly desirous drink the Soma, our juice, O Indra, with thy friends the Maruts, 9 He was your comrade in your zeal, O Maruts: they, rich in noble gifts, rejoiced in Indra. 10 So, Lord of affluent gifts, this juice hath been pressed for thee with strength 11 Incline thy body to this juice which suits thy Godlike nature well: 12 Brave Indra, let it work through both thy flanks, and through thy head by prayer,

2 Removing curses, drawn by teams, with 1ndra, seated by thy side, 3 The two dark treasuries of wealth that wear 4 May nine−and−ninety harnessed steeds who yoke them at thy will bring thee. 5 Harness, O Vayu, to thy car a hundred well−fed tawny steeds,

2 When, Varuna and Mitra, ye sit in your golden dwelling−place, 3 All these, possessors of all wealth, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, 4 For they are true, they cleave to Law, held holy among every race, 5 Which of your persons, Varuna or Mitra, merits not our praise?

2 What child is this thou carriest as handmaid, O Youthful One? The Consort−Queen hath bome him. 3 I saw him from afar gold−toothed, bright−coloured, hurling his weapons from his habitation, 4 I saw him moving from the place he dwells in, even as with a herd, brilliantly shining. 5 Who separate my young bull from the cattle, they whose protector was in truth no stranger? 6 Mid mortal men godless have secreted the King of all who live, home of the people. 7 Thou from the stake didst loose e'en Sunahsepa bound for a thousand; for he prayed with fervour. 8 Thou hast sped from me, Agni, in thine anger: this the protector of Gods' Laws hath told me. 9 Agni shines far and wide with lofty splendour, and by his greatness makes all things apparent. 10 Loud in the heaven above be Agni's roarings with keen−edged weapons to destroy the demons. 11 As a skilled craftsman makes a car, a singer I, Mighty One! this hymn for thee have fashioned. 12 May he, the strong−necked Steer, waxing in vigour, gather the foeman's wealth with none to check hi

2 So battle now, O Indra and thou, Agni, for cows and waters, sunlight, stolen Mornings. 3 With Vrtra−slaying might, Indra and Agni, come, drawn by homage, O ye Vrtra−slayers. 4 I call the Twain whose deeds of old have all been famed in ancient days 5 The Strong, the scatterers of the foe, Indra and Agni, we invoke; 6 They slay our Arya foes, these Lords of heroes, slay our Dasyu foes 7 Indra and Agni, these our songs of praise have sounded forth to you: 8 Come, Indra−Agni, with those teams, desired of many, which ye have, 9 With those to this libation poured, ye Heroes, Indra−Agni, come: 10 Glorify him who compasses all forests with his glowing flame, 11 He who gains Indra's bliss with fire enkindled finds an easy way 12 Give us fleet coursers to convey Indra and Agni, and bestow 13 Indra and Agni, I will call you hither and make you joyful with the gifts I offer. 14 Come unto us with riches, come with wealth in horses and in kine. 15 Indra and Agni, hear his call who worships. with libations poured.

2 Agni, we know thy three powers in three stations, we know thy forms in many a place divided. 3 The Manly−souled lit thee in sea and waters, man's Viewer lit thee in the breast of heaven, 4 Agni roared out, like Dyaus what time he thunders: he licked the ground about the plants he flickered. 5 The spring of glories and support of riches, rouser of thoughts and guardian of the Soma, 6 Germ of the world, ensign of all creation, be sprang to life and filled the earth and heavens. 7 So among mortals was Immortal Agni stablished as holy wise and willing envoy. 8 Like gold to look on, far he shone refulgent, beaming imperishable life for glory, 9 Whoso this day, O God whose flames are lovely, prepares a cake, O Agni, mixt with butter, 10 Endow him, Agni, with a share of glory, at every song of praise sung forth enrich him. 11 While, Agni, day by day men pay thee worship they win themselves all treasures worth the wishing. 12 Agni, the Friend of men, the Soma's keeper, Vaisvanara, hath been lauded by the Rsis.

2 Radiant, as high Truth, cherished, best at winning strength, Truth based upon the statute that supports th 3 This light, the best of lights, supreme, all−conquering, winner of riches, is exalted with high laud. 4 Beaming forth splendour with thy light, thou hast attained heaven's lustrous realm.

2 And, God, as skilfullest of all, call for us bitherward the Gods: 3 For thou, Most Youthful, Son of Strength, thou to whom sacrifice is paid, 4 This Agni, Lord of wealth and spoil hundredfold, thousandfold, is head 5 As craftsmen bend the felly, so bend at our general call: come nigh, 6 Now, O Virupa, rouse for him, Strong God who shines at early morn, 7 With missile of this Agni, his who looks afar, will we lay low 8 Let not the Companies of Gods fail us, like Dawns that float away, 9 Let not the sinful tyranny of any fiercely hating foe 10 O Agni, God, the people sing reverent praise to thee for strength: 11 Wilt thou not, Agni, lend us aid in winning cattle, winning wealth? 12 In this great battle cast us not aside as one who bears a load: 13 O Agni, let this plague pursue and fright another and not us: 14 The reverent or unwearied man whose holy labour he accepts, 15 Abandoning the foeman's host pass hither to this company: 16 As we have known thy gracious help, as of a Father, long ago,

2 Thee, as thou art, desiring wealth Gotama worships with his song: 3 As such, like Angiras we call on thee best winner of the spoil: 4 Thee, best of Vrtra−slayers, thee who shakest off our Dasyu foes: 5 A pleasant song to Agni we, sons of Rahugana, have sung:

2 The bowl made Indra swift to gather booty, the High, the Lofty, Youthful, Undecaying, 3 Stretch out those hands of thine, extend to us−ward thy wide capacious arms, and grant us glory. 4 Now, fain for strength, let us invite your Indra hither, who lieth hidden with his Heroes,− 5 With steadfast laws, wealth−giver, strong through Soma, he hath much fair and precious food to feed us 6 Bring unto us the mightiest might, O Hero, strong and most potent force, thou great Subduer! 7 Bring us, grown mighty in its strength, O Indra, thy friendly rapturous joy that wins the battle, 8 Indra, bestow on us the power heroic skilled and exceeding strong, that wins the booty, 9 Let thine heroic strength come from behind us, before us, from above us or below us. 10 With most heroic aid from thee, like heroes Indra, may we win wealth by deeds glory. 11 The Bull, whose strength hath waxed, whom Maruts follow, free−giving Indra, the Celestial Ruler, 12 Give up the people who are high and haughty to these men and to me, O Thunder−wielder! 13 Through these thy friendships, God invoked of many! may we be victors over every foeman.

for gain: 27 Who will set free from ruinous woe, or Arya on the Seven Streams: 28 As to Varosusaman thou broughtest great riches, for their gain, 29 Let Narya's sacrificial meed reach Vyasva's Soma−bearing sons: 30 If one should ask thee, Where is he who sacrificed? Whither lookest thou?

2 She before all the living world hath wakened, the Lofty One who wins and gathers treasure. 3 If, Dawn, thou Goddess nobly born, thou dealest fortune this day to all the race of mortals, 4 Showing her wonted form each day that passeth, spreading the light she visiteth each dwelling. 5 Sister of Varuna, sister of Bhaga, first among all sing forth, O joyous Morning. 6 Let our glad hymns and holy thoughts rise upward, for the flames brightly burning have ascended. 7 The one departeth and the other cometh: unlike in hue day's, halves march on successive. 8 The same in form to−day, the same tomorrow, they still keep Varuna's eternal statute. 9 She who hath knowledge Of the first day's nature is born refulgent white from out the darkness. 10 In pride of beauty like a maid thou goest, O Goddess, to the God who longs to win thee, 11 Fair as a bride embellished by her mother thou showest forth thy form that all may see it. 12 Rich in kine, horses, and all goodly treasures, in constant operation with the sunbeams, 13 Obedient to the rein of Law Eternal give us each thought that more and more shall bless us.

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

2 May the Floods' Offspring, he whose course is rapid, protect that wave most rich in sweets, O Waters, 3 All−purifying, joying in their nature, to paths of Gods the Goddesses move onward. 4 Whom Surya with his bright beams hath attracted, and Indra dug the path for them to travel,

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 Excellent Agni, come thou nigh to us, and give us wealth most splendidly renowned. 3 So hear us, listen to this call of ours, and keep us far from every sinful man. 4 To thee then, O Most Bright, O Radiant God, we come with prayer for happiness for our friends.

1 THE priests, Vasisthas, are the first awakened to welcome Usas with their songs and praises, 2 Giving fresh life when she hath hid the darkness, this Dawn hath wakened there with new−born lustre. 3 May blessed Mornings shine on us for ever, with wealth of kine, of horses, and of heroes,

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

2 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 For Dvita who receives through wealth of native strength maimed offerings, 3 Nobles, with song I call that car of yours that shines with lengthened life, 4 They who have varied ways of thought, who guard, the lauds within their lips, 5 Immortal Agni, give the chiefs, heroes who institute the rite,

1 To this fair sacrifice to drink the milky draught thou art invoked: 2 No mortal man, no God exceeds thy mental power, O Mighty one − 3 All Gods devoid of guile, who know the mighty region of mid−air: 4 The terrible, who sing their song, not to be overcome by might: 5 Brilliant, and awful in their form, mighty, devourers of their foes': 6 Who sit as Deities in heaven, above the sky−vault's luminous sphere: 7 Who scatter clouds about the sky, away over the billowy sea: 8 Who with their bright beams spread them forth over the ocean in their might 9 For thee, to be thine early draught, I pour the Soma−mingled meath: 1 FOR the Celestial Race this song of praise which gives wealth lavishly 2 They who for Indra, with their mind, formed horses harnessed by a word, 3 They for the two Nasatyas wrought a light car moving every way: 4 The Rbhus with effectual prayers, honest, with constant labour, made 5 Together came your gladdening drops with Indra by the Maruts girt, 6 The sacrificial ladle, wrought newly by the God Tvastar's hand− 7 Vouchsafe us wealth, to him who pours thrice seven libations, yea, to each 8 As ministering Priests they held, by pious acts they won themselves,

2 In love thou madest Usas glow, in love thou madest Surya shine. 3 The heaven with streams of golden hue, earth with her tints of green and gold− 4 When born to life the golden Bull illumines all the realm of light. 5 The bright, the well−loved thunderbolt, girt with the bright, Indra disclosed,

2 To Vayu flow the Soma−streams, the drops of juice made beautiful 3 Pressed in the mortar, these, the drops of 4 Deft−handed men, run hither, seize the brilliant juices blent with meal, 5 Thus, Soma, Conqueror of wealth! flow, finding furtherance for us, 6 This Pavamana, meet to be adorned, the fingers ten adorn,

2 So, in thine ancient ways, may he, beloved, with a thousand streams 3 Him who is like a caldron shake: O Indu, shake thy gift to us 4 Indu, invoked with many a prayer, bring down the vigour of these men, 5 Indu, Wealth−giver, with thine help pour out for us a hundred, yea,

2 She never vexed me nor was angry with me, but to my friends and me was ever gracious. 3 My wife holds me aloof, her mother hates me: the wretched man finds none to give him comfort. 4 Others caress the wife of him whose riches the die hath coveted, that rapid courser: 5 When I resolve to play with these no longer, my friends depart from me and leave me lonely. 6 The gamester seeks the gambling−house, and wonders, his body all afire, Shall I be lucky? 7 Dice, verily, are armed with goads and driving−hooks, deceiving and tormenting, causing grievous woe. 8 Merrily sports their troop, the three−and−fifty, like Savitar the God whose ways are faithful. 9 Downward they roll, and then spring quickly upward, and, handless, force the man with hands to serve 10 The gambler's wife is left forlorn and wretched: the mother mourns the son who wanders homeless. 11 Sad is the gambler when he sees a matron, another's wife, and his well−ordered dwelling. 12 To the great captain of your mighty army, who hath become the host's imperial leader, 13 Play not with dice: no, cultivate thy corn−land. Enjoy the gain, and deem that wealth sufficient. 14 Make me your friend: show us some little mercy. Assail us not with your terrific fierceness.

2 From mortal men they hid the Immortal Lady, made one like her and gave her to Vivasvan. 3 Guard of the world, whose cattle ne'er are injured, may Pusan bear thee hence, for he hath knowledge. 4 May Ayu, giver of all life, protect thee, and bear thee forward on the distant pathway. 5 Pusan knows all these realms: may he conduct us by ways that are most free from fear and danger. 6 Pusan was born to move on distant pathways, on the road far from earth and far from heaven. 7 The pious call Sarasvati, they worship Sarasvati while sacrifice proceedeth. 8 Sarasvati, who camest with the Fathers, with them rejoicing thee in our oblations, 9 Thou, called on as Sarasvati by Fathers who come right forward to our solemn service, 10 The Mother Floods shall make us bright and shining, cleansers of holy oil, with oil shall cleanse us: 11 Through days of earliest date the Drop descended on this place and on that which was before it. 12 The Drop that falls, thy stalk which arms have shaken, which from the bosom of the press hath fallen, 13 That fallen Drop of thine, the stalk which from the ladle fell away, 14 The plants of earth are rich in milk, and rich in milk is this my speech;

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

3 The whip is laid upon the flank. The heroes stretch their thighs apart, 4 Go ye, O Heroes, far away, ye bridegrooms with a lovely Spouse 5 May she gain cattle for her meed, hundreds of sheep and steeds and kine, 6 Yea, many a woman is more firm and better than the man who turns 7 She who discerns the weak and worn, the man who thirsts and is in want 8 And yet full many a one, unpraised, mean niggard, is entitled man: 9 And she, the young, the joyous−spirited, divulged the path to Syava, yea, to me. 10 Him who, like Vaidadasvi, like Taranta, hath bestowed on me 11 They who are borne by rapid steeds, drinking the meath that gives delight, 12 They by whose splendour both the worlds are over−spread they shine on cars 13 That Marut band is ever young, borne on bright cars, unblamable, 14 Who knoweth, verily, of these where the All−shakers take delight, 15 Guides are ye, lovers of the song to mortal man through holy hymn, 16 Do ye, destroyers of the foe, worshipful and exceeding bright, 17 OUrmya, bear thou far away to Darbhya this my hymn of praise, 18 From me to Rathaviti say, when he hath pressed the Soma juice, 19 This wealthy Rathaviti dwells among the people rich in kine,

2 The Maruts are thy brothers. Why, O Indra, wouldst thou take our lives? 3 Agastya, brother, why dost thou neglect us, thou who art our friend? 4 Let them prepare the altar, let them kindle fire in front: we two 5 Thou, Lord of Wealth, art Master of all treasures, thou, Lord of friends, art thy

2 This lovely Soma is effused, O Indra and Brhaspati, 3 As Soma−drinkers to our house come, Indra and Brhaspati−and Indra−to drink Soma juice. 4 Vouchsafe us riches hundredfold, O Indra, and Brhaspati, 5 O Indra. and Brhaspati, we call you when the meath is shed, 6 Drink, Indra and Brhaspati, the Soma in the giver's house:

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

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

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

2 Him, to be praised at each tribe's sacrifices, the Two young Matrons' sober−minded Herald, 3 Unlike in form are the Red God's two Daughters: one is the Sun's, and stars bedeck the other. 4 I with a lofty song call hither Vayu, all−bounteous, filler of his car, most wealthy. 5 That chariot of the Asvins, fair to look on, pleaseth me well, yoked with a thought, refulgent, 6 Bulls of the Earth, O Vata and Parjanya, stir up for us the regions of the water. 7 So may Sarasvati, the Hero's Consort, brisk with rare life, the lightning's Child, inspire us, 8 I praise with eloquence him who guards all pathways. He, when his love impelled him, went to Arka. 9 May Herald Agni, fulgent, bring for worship Tvastar adored, in homes and swift to listen, 10 Rudra by day, Rudra at night we honour with these our songs, the Universe's Father. 11 Ye who are youthful, wise, and meet for worship, come, Martits, to the longing of the singer. 12 Even as the herdsman driveth home his cattle, I urge my songs to him the strong swift Hero 13 He who for man's behoof in his afiliction thrice measured out the earthly regions, Visnu− 14 Sweet be this song of mine to Ahibudhnya, Parvata, Savitar, with Floods and Lightnings; 15 Give riches borne on cars, with many heroes, contenting men, the guard of mighty Order.

2 O Gods, Adityas, well ye know the way to keep all woes afar. 3 As the birds spread their sheltering wings let your protection cover us. 4 To whomsoever they, Most Wise, have given a home and means of life, 5 As drivers of the car avoid ill roads, let sorrows pass us by. 6 For verily men sink and faint through loss of wealth which ye have given. 7 On him shall no fierce anger fall, no sore distress shall visit him, 8 Resting in you, O Gods, we are like men who fight in coats of mail. 9 May Aditi defend us, may Aditi guard and shelter us, 10 The shelter, Gods, that is secure, auspicious, free from malady, 11 Look down on us, Adityas, as a guide exploring from the bank. 12 Ill be it for the demons' friend to find us or come near to us. 13 Each evil deed made manifest, and that which is concealed, O Gods, 14 Daughter of Heaven, the dream that bodes evil to us or to our kine, 15 Even if, O Child of Heaven, it make a garland or a chain of gold, 16 To him whose food and work is this, who comes to take his share therein, 17 As we collect the utmost debt, even the eighth and sixteenth part, 18 Now have we conquered and obtained, and from our trespasses are free.

2 Let Aryarnan vouchsafe us wealth, and Bhaga, and Brhaspati. 3 We call King Soma to our aid, and Agni with our songs and hymns, 4 Indra, Vayu, Brhaspati, Gods swift to listen, we invoke, 5 Urge Aryaman to send us gifts, and Indra, and Brhaspati, 6 Do thou, O Agni, with thy fires strengthen our prayer and sacrifice:

2 I saw thee pondering in thine heart, and praying that in due time thy body might be fruitful. 3 In plants and herbs, in all existent beings I have deposited the germ of increase. 2 O Sinivali, set the germ, set thou the germ, Sarasvati: 3 That which the Asvins Twain rub forth with the attrition−sticks of gold,−

2 The richly−coloured Dawns have mounted eastward, like pillars planted at our sacrifices, 3 Dispelling gloom this day the wealthy Mornings urge liberal givers to present their treasures. 4 O Goddesses, is this your car, I ask you, ancient this day, or is it new, ye Mornings, 5 With horses harnessed by eternal Order, Goddesses, swiftly round the worlds ye travel, 6 Which among these is eldest, and where is she through whom they fixed the Rbhus' regulations? 7 Blest were these Dawns of old, shining with succour, true with the truth that springs from holy Order; 8 Hither from eastward all at once they travel, from one place spreading in the selfsame manner. 9 Thus they go forth with undiminished colours, these Mornings similar, in self−same fashion, 10 O Goddesses, O Heaven's refulgent Daughters, bestow upon us wealth with store of children. 11 Well−skilled in lore of sacrifice, ye Daughters of Heaven, refulgent Dawns, I thus address you. 2 Unfailing, Mother of the Kine, in colour like a bright red mare, 3 Yea, and thou art the Asvins' Friend, the Mother of the Kine art thou: 4 Thinking of thee, O joyous One, as her who driveth hate away, 5 Our eyes behold thy blessed rays like troops of cattle loosed to feed. 6 When thou hast filled it, Fulgent One! thou layest bare the gloom with light. 7 Thou overspreadest heaven with rays, the dear wide region of mid−air.

2 Worship at dawn and instigate the Asvins:nor is the worshipper at eve rejected. 3 Covered with gold, meath−tinted, dropping fatness, your chariot with its freight of food comes hither, 4 He who hath served most often the Nasatyas, and gives the sweetest food at distribution, 5 May we obtain the Asvins' newest favour, and gain their health−bestowing happy ildance.

2 According to primeval plan this Soma, with his stream, effused 3 For him victorious, waxen great, the juices with a thousand powers 4 Shedding the ancient fluid he is poured into the cleansing sieve: 5 Soma, while purifying, sends hither all things to be desired, 6 Soma, effused, pour on us wealth in kine, in heroes, steeds, and spoil,

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

2 Yea, for ourselves we claim the grace of Heaven and Earth, of Saryanavan, of the Hills and Mother 3 May the great Twain, the Mothers, Heaven and Earth, this day preserve us free from sin for peace and 4 May this first Dawn bring us the host of gracious Gods: rich, may it richly shine for us who strive for 5 Dawns, who come forward with the bright beams of the Sun, and at your earliest flushing bring to us th 6 Free from all sickness may the Mornings come to us, and let our fires mount upward with a lofty blaze. 7 Send us to−day a portion choice and excellent, O Savitar, for thou art he who dealeth wealth. 8 Further me this declaring of Eternal Law, the Law of Gods, as we mortals acknowledge it! 9 This day we pray with innocence in strewing grass, adjusting pressing−stones, and perfecting the hymn. 10 To our great holy grass I bid the Gods at morn to banquet, and will seat them as the seven priests,− 11 Come hither, O Adityas, for our perfect weal: accordant help our sacrifice that we may thrive. 12 Adityas, Gods, vouchsafe that this our home may be praise−worthy, prosperous, our heroes' sure defen 13 This day may all the Maruts, all he near us with aid: may all our fires be well enkindled. 14 He whom ye aid, O Deities, in battle, whom ye protect and rescue from affliction,

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

8 When bidden thoughts, spontaneously advancing, glow, and with the stream 9 Indra, may we obtain that wealth in horses and in herds of cows, 10 I from my Father have received deep knowledge of the Holy Law 11 After the lore of ancient time I make, like Kanva, beauteous songs, 12 Whatever Rsis have not praised thee, Indra, or have lauded thee, 13 When his wrath thundered, when he rent Vrtra to pieces, limb by limb, 14 Against the Dasyu gusna thou, Indra, didst hurl thy during bolt: 15 Neither the heavens nor firmaments nor regions of the earth contain 16 O Indra him who lay at length staying thy copious waters thou, 17 Thou hiddest deep in darkness itim, O Indra, who had set his grasp 18 Indra, whatever Yatis and Bhrgus have offered praise to thee, 19 Indra, these spotted cows yield thee their butter and the milky draught; 20 Which, teeming, have received thee as a life−germ, Indra, with their mouth, 21 O Lord of Might, with hymns of praise the Kanvas have increased thy power, 22 Under thy guidance, Indra, mid thy praises, Lord of Thunder, shall 23 Indra, disclose much food for us, like a stronghold with store of kine: 24 And, Indra, grant us all that wealth of fleet steeds which shone bright of old 25 Hither thou seemest to attract heaven's fold which shines before our eyes, 26 Yea, when thou puttest forth thy power, Indra, thou governest the folk.

2 Where are ye, Asvins, in the evening, where at morn? Where is your haltingplace, where rest ye for the 3 Early ye sing forth praise as with a herald's voice, and, meet for worship, go each morning to the house. 4 Even as hunters follow two wild elephants, we with oblations call you down at morn and eve. 5 To you, O Asvins, came the daughter of a King, Ghosa, and said, O Heroes, this I beg of you: 6 O Asvins, ye are wise: as Kutsa comes to men, bring your car nigh the folk of him who sings your prais 7 To Bhujyu and to Vasa ye come near with help, O Asvins, to Sinjara and to Usana. 8 Krsa and Sayu ye protect, ye Asvins Twain: ye Two assist the widow and the worshipper; 9 The Woman hath brought forth, the Infant hath appeared, the plants of wondrous beauty straightway ha 10 They mourn the living, cry aloud, at sacrifice: the men have set their thoughts upon a distant cast. 11 Of this we have no knowledge. Tall it forth to us, now the youth rests within the chambers of the bride. 12 Your favouring grace hath come, ye Lords of ample wealth: Asvins, our longings are stored up within 13 Even so, rejoicing in the dwelling−place of man, give hero sons and riches to the eloquent. 14 O Asvins, Wonder−Workers, Lords of lustre, where and with what folk do ye delight yourselves to−da