Sacred Concord

RV 115 (2)

Rig Veda · translated by Ralph T.H. Griffith

2 Then Agni was his name, most active to bestow, gathering up the trees with his consuming tooth; 3 Praise him, yourGod who, bird−like, rests upon a tree, scattering drops of juice and pouring forth his flo 4 Thou Everlasting, whom, far−striding fain to burn, the winds, uninterrupted, never overcome, 5 This Agni is the best of Kanvas, Kanvas' Friend, Conqueror of the foe whether afar or near. 6 Do thou, Supitrya, swiftly following, make thyself the lord of Jatavedas, mightiest of all, 7 Thus noble Agni with princes and mortal men is lauded, excellent for conquering strength with chiefs, 8 O Son of Strength, Victorious, with this title Upastuta's most potent voice reveres thee. 9 Thus, Agni, have the sons of Vrstihavya, the Rsis, the Upastutas invoked thee. 2 Drink of the foodful juice stirred into motion, drink what thou choosest of the flowing Soma. 3 Let heavenly Soma gladden thee, O Indra, let that effused among mankind delight thee. 4 Let Indra come, impetuous, doubly mighty, to the poured juice, the Bull, with two Bay Coursers. 5 Dash down, outffaming their sharp flaming weapons, the strong−holds of the men urged on by demons. 6 Extend afar the votary's fame and glory, as the firm archer's strength drives off the foeman. 7 To thee have we presented this oblation: accept it, Sovran Ruler, free from anger. 8 Eat, Indra, these oblations which approach thee: be pleased with food made ready and with Soma. 9 I send sweet speech to Indra and to Agni: with hymns I speed it like a boat through waters.
RV 115 (2) · Rig Veda · null

Themes in this passage

StrengthChildrenAngerDeathThe DivineFriendshipJoyLeadership

Strength in other traditions

The same theme, as Christianity, Islam, Hellenism and Taoism address it.

Behold, God is mighty, and despiseth not any: he is mighty in strength and wisdom.
Job 36:5 · Bible · Job
Allah is He Who shaped you out of weakness, then appointed after weakness strength, then, after strength, appointed weakness and grey hair. He createth what He will. He is the Knower, the Mighty.
Quran 30:54 · Quran · The Romans
“Stern power of war! by whom the mighty fall, Who bathe in blood, and shake the lofty wall! Let the brave chiefs their glorious toils divide; And whose the conquest, mighty Jove decide: While we from interdicted fields retire, Nor tempt the wrath of heaven’s avenging sire.”
Iliad 5.6 · Iliad · 5
Hence he who (relies on) the strength of his forces does not conquer; and a tree which is strong will fill the out-stretched arms, (and thereby invites the feller.)
Tao Te Ching 76.3 · Tao Te Ching

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