2 The fountain−depths obstructed in their seasons, thou, Thunderer! madest flow, the mountain's udder. 3 Indra with violence smote down the weapon, 4 Him, whom the heavenly food of these delighted, child of the mist, strong waxing, couched in darkness, 5 Though he might ne'er be wounded still his vitals felt that, the God's bolt, which his powers supported, 6 Him as he lay there huge in length extended, still waxing in the gloom which no sun lightened, 7 When 'gainst the mighty Danava his weapon Indra uplifted, power which none could combat, 8 The fierce God seized that huge and restless coiler, insatiate, drinker of the sweets, recumbent, 9 Who may arrest his strength or cheek his vigour? Alone, resistless, he bears off all riches. 10 E'en the Celestial Axe bows down before him, and the Earth, lover−like, gives way to Indra. 11 I hear that thou wast born sole Lord of heroes of the Five Races, famed among the people. 12 So, too, I hear of thee as in due season urging to action and enriching singers.RV 32 (5) · Rig Veda · null
RV 32 (5)
Rig Veda · translated by Ralph T.H. Griffith
Themes in this passage
StrengthThe DivineNatureAnxietyChildrenKarmaLonelinessWealth
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
See what all six traditions say about strength →
Search every tradition at once
Ask a question in your own words and see how six traditions answer it.