# Rig Veda - Book  4

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> RIG VEDA - BOOK THE FOURTH
> 
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> 
> HYMN I. Agni.
> 
> 1, THEE Agni, have the Gods, ever of one accord, sent hither down, a God, appointed messenger, yea, with their wisdom sent thee down.
> The Immortal, O thou Holy One, mid mortal men, the God-devoted God, the wise, have they brought forth, brought forth the omnipresent God-devoted Sage.
> 2 As such, O Agni, bring with favour to the Gods thy Brother Varuna who loveth sacrifice,
> True to the Law, the Aditya who supporteth men, the King, supporter of mankind.
> 3 Do thou, O Friend, turn hither him who is our Friend, swift as a wheel, like two car-steeds in rapid course, Wondrous! to us in rapid course.
> O Agni, find thou grace for us with Varuna, with Maruts who illumine all.
> Bless us, thou Radiant One, for seed and progeny, yea, bless us, O thou Wondrous God.
> 4 Do thou who knowest Varuna, O Agni, put far away from us the God's displeasure.
> Best Sacrificer, brightest One, refulgent remove thou far from us all those who hate us.
> 5 Be thou, O Agni, nearest us with succour, our closest Friend while now this Morn is breaking.
> Reconcile to us Varuna, be bounteous enjoy the gracious juice; be swift to hear us.
> 6 Excellent is the glance, of brightest splendour, which the auspicious God bestows on mortals-
> The God's glance, longed-for even as the butter, pure, heated, of the cow, the milch-cow's bounty.
> 7 Three are those births, the true, the most exalted, eagerly longed-for, of the God, of Agni.
> He came invested in the boundless region, pure, radiant, friendly, mightily resplendent.
> 8 This envoy joyeth in all seats of worship, borne on his golden car, sweet-tongued Invoker:
> Lovely to look on, with red steeds, effulgent, like a feast rich in food, joyous for ever.
> 9 Allied by worship, let him give man knowledge: by an extended cord they lead him onward.
> He stays, effectual in this mortal's dwelling, and the God wins a share in his possessions.
> 10 Let Agni -for he knows the way- conduct us to all that he enjoys of God-sent riches,
> What all the Immortals have prepared with wisdom, Dyaus, Sire, Begetter, raining down true blessings.
> 11 In houses first he sprang into existence, at great heaven's base, and in this region's bosom;
> Footless and headless, both his ends concealing, in his Bull's lair drawing himself together.
> 12 Wondrously first he rose aloft, defiant, in the Bull's lair, the homeof holy Order,
> Longed-for, young, beautiful, and far-resplendent: and sevendear frieuds sprang up unto the Mighty.
> 13 Here did our human fathers take their places, fain to fulfil the sacred Law of worship.
> Forth drave they, with loud call, Dawn's teeming Milch-kine bid in the mountainstable, in the cavern.
> 14 Splendid were they when they had rent the mountain: others, around, shall tell forth this their exploit.
> They sang their song, prepared to free the cattle: they found the light; with holy hymns they worshipped.
> 15 Eager, with thought intent upon the booty, the men with their celestial speech threw open,
> The solid mountain firm, compact, enclosing, confining Cows, the stable full of cattle.
> 16 The Milch-cow's earliest name they comprehended: they found the Mother's thrice-seven noblest titles.
> This the bands knew, and sent forth acclamation:with the Bull's sheen the Red One was apparent.
> 17 The turbid darkness fled, the heaven was sp, endid! up rose the bright beam of celestial Morning.
> Surya ascended to the wide expanses, beholding deeds of men both good and evil.
> 18 Then, afterwards they looked around, awakened, when first they held that Heaven allotted treasure.
> Now all the Gods abide in all their dwellings. Varuna, Mitra, be the prayer effective.
> 19 I will call hither brightly-beaming Agni, the Herald, all-supporting, best at worship.
> He hath disclosed, like the milch cows' pure udder, the Sorria's juice when cleansed and poured from beakers.
> 20 The freest God of all who should be worshipped, the guest who is received in all men's houses,
> Agni who hath secured the Gods' high favour,-may he be gracious, to us Jatavedas.
> 
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> 
> HYMN II. Agni.
> 
> 1. THE, Faithful One, Immortal among mortals, a God among the Gods, appointed envoy,
> Priest, best at worship, must shine forth in glory . Agni shall be raised high with man's oblations.
> 2 Born for us here this day, O Son of Vigour, between both races of born beings, Agni,
> Thou farest as an envoy, having harnessed, Sublime One! thy strong-muscled radiant stallions.
> 3 I laud the ruddy steeds who pour down blessing, dropping oil, flectest through the thoualit of Order.
> Yoking red horses to and fro thou goest between you Deities and mortal races.
> 4 Aryaman, Mitra, Varuna, and Indra with Visnu, of the Gods, Maruts and Asvins-
> These, Agni, with good car and steeds, bring hither, most bountiful, to folk with fair oblations.
> 5 Agni, be this our sacrifice eternal, with brave friends, rich in kine and sheep and horses,
> Rich, Asura! in sacred food and children, in full assembly, wealth broad-based and during.
> 6 The man who, sweating, brings for thee the fuel, and makes his head to ache, thy faithful servant,-
> Agni, to him be a self-strong Protector guard him from all who seek to do him mischief.
> 7 Who brings thee food, though thou hast food in plenty, welcomes his cheerful guest and speeds him onward,
> Who kindles thee devoutly in his dwelling,to him be wealth secure and freely giving.
> 8 Whoso sings praise to thee at eve or morning, and, with oblation, doth the thing thou lovest,-
> In his own home, even as a goId-girt courser, rescue him from distress, the bounteous giver.
> 9 Whoso brings gifts to thee Immortal, Agni, and doth thee service with uplifted ladle,-
> Let him not, sorely toiling, lose his riches; let not the sinner's wickedness enclose him.
> 10 Whose well-wrought worship thou acceptest, Agni, thou God a mortal's gift, thou liberal Giver,-
> Dear be his sacrifice to thee, Most Youthful! and may we strengthen him when he adores thee.
> 11 May he who knows distinguish sense and folly of men, like straight and crooked backs of horses.
> Lead us, O God, to wealth and noble offspring: keep penury afar and grant us plenty.
> 12 This Sage the Sages, ne'er deceived, commanded, setting him down in dwellings of the living.
> Hence mayst thou, friendly God, with rapid footsteps behold the Gods, wonderful, fair to look on.
> 13 Good guidance hast thou for the priest, O Agni, who, Youngest God! with outpoured Soma serves thee.
> Ruler of men, thou joyous God, bring treasure splendid and plentiful to aid the toiler.
> 14 Now all that we, thy faithful servants, Agni, have done with feet, with hands, and with our bodies,
> The wise, with toil, the holy rite have guided, as those who frame a car with manual cunning.
> 15 May we, seven sages first in rank, engender, from Dawn the Mother, men to be ordainers.
> May we, Angirases, be sons of Heaven, and, radiant, burst the wealth-containing mountain.
> 16 As in the days of old our ancient Fathers, speeding the work of holy worship, Agni,
> Sought pure light and devotion, singing praises; they cleft the ground and made red Dawns apparent.
> 17 Gods, doing holy acts, devout, resplendent, smelting like ore their human generations.
> Enkindling Agni and exalting Indra, they came encompassing the stall of cattle.
> 18 Strong One! he marked them-and the Gods before them-like herds of cattle in a foodful pasture.
> There they moaned forth their strong desire for mortals, to aid the True, the nearest One, the Living.
> 19 We have worked for thee, we have laboured nobly-bright Dawns have shed their light upon our worship-
> Adding a beauty to the perfect Agni, and the God's beauteous eye that shines for ever.
> 20 Agni, Disposer, we have sung these praises to thee the Wise: do thou accept them gladly.
> Blaze up on high and ever make us richer. Give us great wealth, O thou whose boons are many.
> 
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> 
> HYMN III. Agni.
> 
> 1. WIN, to assist you, Rudra, Lord of worship, Priest of both worlds, effectual
> Sacrificer,
> Agni, invested with his golden colours, before the thunder strike and lay you senseless.
> 2 This shrine have we made ready for thy coming, as the fond dame attires her for her husband.
> Performer of good work, sit down before us, invested while these flames incline to meet thee.
> 3 A hymn, O Priest, to him who hears, the gentle, to him who looks on men, exceeding gracious,
> A song of praise sing to the God Immortal, whom the stone, presser of the sweet juice, worships.
> 4 Even as true knower of the Law, O Agni, to this our solemn rite he thou attentive.
> When shall thy songs of festival be sung thee? When is thy friendship shown within our dwelling?
> 5 Why this complaint to Varuna, O Agni? And why to Heaven? for what is our transgression?
> How wilt thou speak to Earth and bounteous Mitra? What wilt thou say to Aryaman and Bhaga?
> 6 What, when thou blazest on the lesser altars, what to the mighty Wind who comes tobless us,
> True, circumambient? what to Earth, O Agni, what wilt thou say to man-destroying Rudra?
> 7 How to great Pusan who promotes our welfare,- to honoured Rudra what, who gives oblations?
> What sin of ours to the far-striding Visnu, what, Agni, wilt thou tell the Lofty Arrow.
> 8 What wilt thou tell the truthful band of Maruts, how answer the great Sun when thou art questioned?
> Before the Free, before the Swift, defend us: fulfil heaven's work, all-knowing Jatavedas.
> 9 I crave the cow's true gift arranged by Order: though raw, she hath the sweet ripe juice, O Agni.
> Though she is black of hue with milk she teemeth, nutritious, brightly shining, all-sustaining.
> 10 Agni the Bull, the manly, hath been sprinkled with oil upon his back, by Law eternal.
> He who gives vital power goes on unswerving. Prsni the Bull hath milked the pure wiiite udder.
> 11 By Law the Angirases cleft the rock asunder, and sang their hymns together with the cattle.
> Bringing great bliss the men encompassed Morning: light was apparent at the birth of Agni.
> 12 By Law the Immortal Goddesses the Waters, with meath-rich waves, O Agni, and uninjured,
> Like a strong courser lauded in his running, sped to flow onward swiftly and for ever.
> 13 Go never to the feast of one who harms us, the treacherous neighbour or. unworthy kinsman.
> Punish us not for a false brother's trespass. Let us riot feel the might of friend or foeman.
> 14 O Agni, keep us safe with thy protection, loving us, honoured God! and ever guarding.
> Beat thou away, destory severe affliction slay e'en the demon when he waxes mighty.
> 15 Through these our songs of praise be gracious, Agni; moved by ourprayers, O Hero, touch our viands.
> Accept, O Angiras, these our devotions, and let the praise which Gods desire address thee.
> 16 To thee who knowest, Agni, thou Disposer, all these wise secret speeches have I uttered,
> Sung to thee, Sage, the charming words of wisdom, to thee, O Singer, with. my thoughts and Praises.
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> 
> HYMN IV. Agni.
> 
> 1. PUT forth like a wide-spreading net thy vigour; go like a mighty King with his attendants.
> Thou, following thy swift net, shootest arrows: transfix the fiends with darts that burn most fiercely.
> 2 Forth go in rapid flight thy whirling weapons: follow them closely, glowing in thy fury.
> Spread with thy tongue the winged flames, O Agni; unfettered, cast thy firebrands all around thee.
> 3 Send thy spies forward, flectest in thy motion; be, ne'er deceived, the guardian of this people
> From him who, near or far, is bent on evil, and let no trouble sent from thee o'ercome us.
> 4 Rise up, O Agni, spread thee out before us: burn down our foes, thou who hast sharpened arrows.
> Him, blazing Agni! who hath worked us mischief, consume thou utterly like dried-up stubble.
> 5 Rise, Agni, drive off those who fight against us: make manifest thine own celestial vigour.
> Slacken the strong bows of the demondriven: destroy our foemen whether kin or stranger.
> 6 Most Youthful God, he knoweth well thy favour who gave an impulse to this high devotion.
> All fair days and magnificence of riches hast thou beamed forth upon the good man's portals.
> 7 Blest, Agni, be the man, the liberal giver, who with his lauds and regular oblation
> Is fain to please thee for his life and dwelling. May all his days be bright: be this his longing.
> 8 I praise thy gracious favour: sing in answer. May this my song sing like a loved one with thee.
> Lords of good steeds and cars may we adorn thee, and day by day vouchsafe thou us dominion.
> 9 Here of free choice let each one serve thee richly, resplendent day by day at eve and morning.
> So may we honour thee, content and joyous, passing beyond the glories of the people.
> 10 Whoso with good steeds and fine gold, O Agni, comes nigh thee on a car laden with trcasure,
> His Friend art thou, yea, thou art his Protector whose joy it is to entertain thee duly.
> 11 Through words and kinship I destroy the miglity: this power I have from Gotama my father.
> Mark thou this speech of ours, O thou Most Youthful, Friend of the House, exceeding wise, Invoker.
> 12 Knowing no slumber, speedy and propitious, alert and ever friendly, most unwearied,
> May thy protecting powers, unerring Agni, taking their places here, combined, preserve us.
> 13 Thy guardian rays, O Agni, when they saw him, preserved blind Mamateya from affliction.
> Lord of all riches, he preserved the pious: the fees who fain would harm them did no mischief
> 14 Aided by thee with thee may we be wealthy, may we gain strength with thee to guide us onward.
> Fulfil the words of both, O Ever Truthful: straightway do this, thou God whom power emboldens.
> 15 O Agni, with this fuel will we serve thee; accept the laud we sing to thee with favour
> Destroy the cursing Raksasas: preserve us, O rich in friends, from guile and scorn and slander.
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> HYMN V. Agni.
> 
> 1. How shall we give with one accord oblation to Agni, to Vaisvanara the Bounteous?
> Great light, with full high growth hath he uplifted, and, as a pillar bears the roof, sustains it.
> 2 Reproach not him who, God and selfreliant, vouchsafed this bounty unto me a mortal,-
> Deathless, discerner, wise, to me the simple, Vaisvanara most manly, youthful Aini.
> 3 Sharp-pointed, powerful, strong, of boundless vigour, Agni who knows the lofty hymn, kept secret
> As the lost milch-cow's track, the doubly Mighty,-he hath declared to me this hidden knowledge.
> 4 May he with sharpened teeth, the Bounteous Giver, Agni, consume with flame most fiercely glowing.
> Those who regard not Varuna's commandments and the dear stedfast laws of sapient Mitra.
> 5 Like youthful women without brothers, straying, like dames who hate their lords, of evil conduct,
> They who are full of sin, untrue, unfaithful, they have engendered this abysmal station.
> 6 To me, weak, innocent, thou, luminous Agni, bast boldly given as 'twere a heavy burthen,
> This Prstha hymn, profound and strong and mighty, of seven elements, and with offered dainties.
> 7 So may our song that purifies, through wisdom reach in a moment him the Universal,
> Established on the height, on earth's best .station, above the beauteous grassy skin of Prsni.
> 8 Of this my speech what shall I utter further? They indicate the milk stored up in secret
> When they have thrown as 'twere the cows' stalls open. The Bird protects earths' best and well-loved station.
> 9 This is the Great Ones' mighty apparition which from of old the radiant Cow hath followed.
> This, shining brightly in the place of Order, swift, hasting on in secret, she discovered.
> 10 He then who shone together with his Parents remembered Prsni's fair and secret treasure,
> Which, in the Mother Cow's most lofty station, the Bull's tongue, of the flame bent forward, tasted.
> 11 With reverence I declare the Law, O Agni; what is, comes by thine order, Jatavedas.
> Of this, whate'er it be, thou art the Sovran, yea, all the wealth that is in earth or
> heaven.
> 12 What is our wealth therefrom, and what our treasure? Tell us O Jatavedas, for thou
> knowest,
> What is our best course in this secret passage: we, unreproached, have reached a t)lace far distant.
> 13 What is the limit, what the rules, the guerdon? Like fleet-foot coursers speed we to the contest.
> When will the Goddesses, the Immortal's Spouses, the Dawns, spread over us the Sun-God's splendour?
> 14 Unsatisfied, with speech devoid of vigour, scanty and frivolous and inconclusive,
> Wherefore do they address thee here, O Agni? Let these who have no weapons suffer sorrow.
> 15 The majesty of him the Good, the Mighty, aflame, hath shone for glory in the dwelling.
> He, clothed in light, hath shone most fair to look on, wealthy in boons, as a home shines with riches.
> 
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> 
> HYMN VI. Agni.
> 
> 1. PRIEST of our rite, stand up erect, O Agni, in the Gods' service best of sacrificers,
> For over evei y thought thou art the Ruler: thou furtherest e'en the wisdom of the pious.
> 2 He was set down mid men as Priest unerring, Agni, wise, welcome in our holy synods.
> Like Savitar he hath lifted up his splendour, and like a builder raised his smoke to heaven.
> 3 The glowing ladle, filled with oil, is lifted; choosing Gods' service to the right he circles.
> Eager he rises like the new-wrought pillar which, firmly set and fixed, anoints the victims.
> 4 When sacred grass is strewn and Agni kindled, the Adhvaryu rises to, his task rej o cing.
> Agni the Priest, like one who tends the cattle, goes three times round, as from of old he wills it.
> 5 Agni himself, the Priest, with measured motion, goes round, with sweet speech, cheerful, true to Order.
> His fulgent flames run forth like vigorous horses; all creatures are affrighted when he blazes.
> 6 Beautiful and auspicious is thine aspect, O lovely Agni, terrible when spreading.
> Thy splendours are not covered by the darkness: detraction leaves no stain upon thy body.
> 7 Naught hindered his production, Bounteous Giver: his Mother and his Sire were free to send him.
> Then as Friend benevolent, refulgent, Agni shone forth in human habitations.
> 8 He, Agni, whom the twice-five sisters, dwelling together, in the homes of men engendered,
> Bright like a spear's tooth, wakened in the morning, with powerful mouth and like an axe well-sharpened.
> 9 These thy Bay Coursers, Agni, dropping fatness, ruddy vigorous, speeding straightly forward,
> And red steeds, wonderful, of mighty muscle, are to this service of the Gods invited:
> 10 These brightly-shining games of thine, O Agni, that move for ever restless, allsubduing,
> Like falcons hasting eagerly to the quarry, roar loudly like the army of the Maruts.
> 11 To thee, O flaming God, hath prayer been offered. Let the priest laud thee: give to him who worships.
> Men have established Agni as Invoker, fain to adore the glory of the living.
> 
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> 
> HYMN VII. Agni.
> 
> 1. HERE by ordainers was this God appointed first Invoker, best at worship, to be praised at rites:
> Whom Apnavana, and the Bhrgus caused to shine bright-coloured in the wood, spreading from home to home.
> 2 When shall thy glory as a God, Agni, be suddenly shown forth.
> For mortal men have held thee fast, adorable in all their homes,
> 3 Seeing thee faithful to the Law, most sapient, like the starry heaven,
> Illumining with cheerful ray each solemn rite in every house.
> 4 Vivasvan's envoy living men have taken as their ensign, swift,
> The ruler over all mankind, moving like Bhrgu in each home.
> 5 Him the intelligent have they placed duly as Invoking Priest,
> Welcome, with sanctifying flame, best worshipper, with sevenfold might;
> 6 In his Eternal Mothers, in the wood, concealed and unapproached,
> Kept secret though his flames are bright seekingon all sides, quickly found.
> 7 That as food spreads forth in this earthly udder, Gods may rejoice them in the home of Order,
> Great Agni, served with reverence and oblation, flies ever to the sacrifice, the Faithful.
> 8 Bird of each rite, skilled in an envoy's duties, knowing both worlds and that which lies between them,
> Thou goest from of old a willing Herald, knowing full well heaven's innermost recesses.
> 9 Bright God, thy path is black: light is before thee: thy moving splendour is the chief of wonders.
> When she, yet unimpregnate, hath conceived thee, even when newly born thou art an envoy.
> 10 Yet newly born, his vigour is apparent when the wind blows upon his fiery splendour,
> His sharpened tongue he layeth on the brushwood, and with his teeth e'en solid food consumeth.
> 11 When he hath borne off food with swift flame swiftly, strong Agni makes himself a speedy envoy,
> Follows the rustling of the wind, consuming, and courser-like, speeds, drives the swift horse onward.
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> 
> HYMN VIII. Agni.
> 
> 1. YOUR envoy who possesses all, Immortal, bearer of your gifts,
> Best worshipper, I woo with song.
> 2 He, Mighty, knows the gift of wealth, he knows the deep recess of heaven:
> He shall bring hitherward the Gods.
> 3 He knows, a God himself, to guide Gods to the righteous in his home:
> He gives e'en treasures that we love.
> 4 He is the Herald: well-informed, he doth his errand to and fro,
> Knowing the deep recess of heaven.
> 5 May we be they who gratify Agni with sacrificial gifts,
> Whocherish and enkindle him.
> 6 Illustrious for wealth are they, and hero deeds, victorious,
> Who have served Agni reverently.
> 7 So unto us, day after day, may riches craved by many come,
> And power and might spring up for us.
> 8 That holy Singer in his strength shoots forth his arrows swifter than
> The swift shafts of the tribes of men.
> 
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> 
> HYMN IX. Agni.
> 
> 1. AGNI, show favour: great art thou who to this pious man art come,
> To seat thee on the sacred grass.
> 2 May he the Immortal, Helper, bard to be deceived among mankind,
> Become the messenger of all.
> 3 Around the altar is he led, welcome Chief Priest at solemn rites,
> Or as the Potar sits him down.
> 4 Agni in fire at sacrifice, and in the house as Lord thereof,
> And as a Brahman takes his seat.
> 5 Thou comest as the guide of folk who celebrate a sacrifice,
> And to oblations brought by men.
> 6 Thou servest as his messenger whose sacrifice thou lovest well,
> To bear the mortal's gifts to heaven.
> 7 Accept our solemn rite; be pleased, Angiras, with our sacrifice:
> Give ear and listen to our call.
> 8 May thine inviolable car, wherewith thou guardest those who give,
> Come near to us from every side.
> 
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> 
> HYMN X. Agni.
> 
> I. This day with praises, Agni, we bring thee that which thou lovest.
> Right judgment, like a horse, with our devotions.
> 2 For thou hast ever been the Car-driver, Agni, of noble
> Strength, lofty sacrifice, and rightful judgment.
> 3 Through these our praises come thou to meet us, bright as the sunlight,
> O Agni, well disposed, with all thine aspects.
> 4 Now may we serve thee singing these lauds this day to thee, Agni.
> Loud as the voice of Heaven thy blasts are roaring.
> 5 just at this time of the day and the night thy look is the sweetest .
> It shineth near us even as gold for glory.
> 6 Spotless thy body, brilliant as gold, like clarified butter:
> This gleams like gold on thee, O Self. dependent.
> 7 All hate and mischief, yea, if committed, Agni, thou turnest,
> Holy One, from the man who rightly worships.
> 8 Agni, with you Gods, prosperous be our friendships and kinships.
> Be this our bond here by this place, thine al tar.
> 
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> 
> HYMN XI. Agni.
> 
> 1. THY blessed majesty, victorious Agni, shines brightly in the neighbourhood of Surya.
> Splendid to see, it shows even at nighttime, and food is fair to look on in thy beauty.
> 2 Agni, disclose his thought for him who singeth, the well, Strong God! while thou art praised with fervour.
> Vouchsafe to us that powerful hymn, O Mighty, which, Radiant One! with all the Gods thou lovest.
> 3 From thee, O Agni, springs poetic wisdom, from thee come thoughts and hymns of praise that prosper;
> From thee flows wealth, with heroes to adorn it, to the true-hearted man who gives oblation.
> 4 From thee the hero springs who wins the booty, bringer of help, mighty, of real courage.
> From thee comes wealth, sent by the Gods, bliss-giving; Agni, from thee the fleet impetuous charger.
> 5 Immortal Agni, thee whose voice is pleasant, as first in rank, as God, religious mortals
> Invite with hyrnns; thee who removest hatred, Friend of the Home, the household's Lord, unerring.
> 6 Far from us thou removest want and sorrow, far from us all ill-will when thou protectest.
> Son of Strength, Agni, blest is he at evening, whom thou as God attendest for his welfare.
> 
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> 
> HYMN XII. Agni.
> 
> 1. WHOSO enkindles thee, with lifted ladle, and thrice this day offiers thee food, O Agni,
> May he excel, triumphant through thy splendours, wise through thy mental power, O Jatavedas.
> 2 Whoso with toil and trouble brings thee fuel, serving the majesty of mighty Agni,
> He, kindling thee at evening and at morning, prospers, and comes to wealth, and slays his foemen.
> 3 Agni is Master of sublime dominion, Agni is Lord of strength and lofty riches.
> Straightway the self-reliant God, Most Youthful, gives treasures to the mortal who adores him.
> 4 Most Youthful God, whatever sin, through folly, we here, as human beings, have committed,
> In sight of Aditi make thou us sinless remit, entirely, Agni, our offences.
> 5 Even in the presence of great sin, O Agni, free us from prison of the Gods or mortals.
> Never may we who are thy friends be injured: grant health and strength unto our seed and offspring.
> 6 Even as ye here, Gods Excellent and Holy, have loosed the cow that by the foot was tethered,
> So also set us free from this affliction long let our life, O Agni, be extended.
> 
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> 
> HYMN XIII. Agni.
> 
> 1. AGNI hath looked, benevolently-minded, on the wealth-giving spring of radiant Mornings.
> Come, Asvins, to the dwelling of the pious: Surya the God is rising with his splendour.
> 2 Savitar, God, hath spread on high his lustre, waving his flag like a spoil-seeking hero.
> Their stablished way go Varuna and Mitra, what time they make the Sun ascend the heaven.
> 3 Him whom they made to drive away the darkness, Lords of sure mansions, constant to their object,
> Him who beholds the universe, the Sun-God, seven strong and youthful Coursers carry onward.
> 4 Spreading thy web with mightiest Steeds thou comest, rending apart, thou God, the black-hued mantle.
> The rays of Surya tremulously shining sink, like a hide, the darkness in the waters.
> 5 How is it that, unbound and not supported, he falleth not although directed downward?
> By what self power moves he? Who liath seen it? He guards the vault of heaven, a close-set pillar.
> 
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> 
> HYMN XIV. Agni.
> 
> 1. THE God hath looked, even Agni Jatavedas, to meet the Dawns refulgent in their glories.
> Come on your chariot, ye who travel widely, come to this sacrifice of ours, Nasatyas.
> 2 Producing light for all the world of creatures, God Savitar hath raised aloft his banner.
> Making his presence known by sunbeams, Surya hath filled the firmament and earth and heaven.
> 3 Red Dawn.is come, riding with brightness onward, distinguished by her beams, gay-hued and mighty.
> Dawn on her nobly-harnessed car, the Goddess, awaking men to happiness, approacheth.
> 4 May those most powerful steeds and chariot bring you, O Asvins, hither at the break of morning.
> Here for your drauglit of meath are Soma juices: at this our sacrifice rejoice, ye Mighty.
> 5 How is it that, unbound and unsupported, he falleth not although directed downward?
> By what self-power moves he? Who hath seen it? He guards the vault of heaven, a close-set pillar?
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XV. Agni.
> 
> 1. AGNI the Herald, like a horse, is led forth at our solemn rite,
> God among Gods adorable.
> 2 Three times unto our solemn rite comes Agni like a charioteer,
> Bearing the viands to the Gods.
> 3 Round the oblations hath he paced, Agni the Wise, the Lord of Strength,
> Giving the offerer precious boons.
> 4 He who is kindled eastward for Srnjaya, Devavata's son,
> Resplendent, tamer of the foe.
> 5 So mighty be the Agni whom the mortal hero shall command,
> With sharpened teeth and bountiful.
> 6 Day after day they dress him, as they clean a horse who wins the prize.
> Dress the red Scion of the Sky.
> 7 When Sahadeva's princely son with two bay horses thought of me,
> Summoned by him I drew not back.
> 8 And truly those two noble bays I straightway took when offered me,
> From Sahadeva's princely son.
> 9 Long, O ye Asvins, may he live, your care, ye Gods, the princely son.
> Of Sahadeva, Somaka.
> 10 Cause him the youthful prince, the son of Sahadeva, to enjoy
> Long life, O Asvins, O ye Gods.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XVI. Indra.
> 
> 1. IMPETUOUS, true, let Maghavan come hither, and let his Tawny Coursers speed to reach us.
> For him have we pressed juice exceeding potent: here, praised with song, let him effect his visit.
> 2 Unyoke, as at thy journey's end, O Hero, to gladden thee today at this libation.
> Like Usana, the priest a laud shall utter, a hymn to thee, the Lord Divine, who markest.
> 3 When the Bull, quaffing, praises our Iibation, as a sage paying holy rites in secret,
> Seven singers here from heaven hath he begotten, who e'en by day have wrought their works while singing.
> 4 When heaven's fair light by hymns was made apparent (they made great splendour shine at break of morning),
> He with his succour, best of Heroes, scattered the blinding darkness so that men saw clearly.
> 5 Indra, Impetuous One, hath waxed immensely: he with his vastness hath filled earth and heaven.
> E'en beyond this his majesty extendeth who hath exceeded all the worlds in greatness.
> 6 Sakra who knoweth well all human actions hath with his eager Friends let loose the waters.
> They with their songs cleft e'en the mountain open and willingly disclosed the stall of cattle.
> 7 He smote away the floods' obstructer, Vrtra; Earth, conscious, lent her aid to speed thy thunder.
> Thou sentest forth the waters of the ocean, as Lord through power and might, O daring Hero.
> 8 When, Much-invoked! the water's rock thou cleftest, Sarama showed herself and went before thee.
> Hymned by Angirases, bursting the cowstalls, much strength thou foundest for us as our leader.
> 9 Come, Maghavan, Friend of Man, to aid the singer imploring thee in battle for the sunlight.
> Speed him with help in his irypired invokings: down sink the sorcerer, the prayerless Dasyu.
> 10 Come to our home resolved to slay the Dasyu: Kutsa longed eagerly to win thy friendship.
> Alike in form ye both sate in his dwelling the faithful Lady was in doubt between you.
> 11 Thou comest, fain to succour him, with Kutsa,-a goad that masters both the Wind-God's horses,
> That, holding the brown steeds like spoil for capture, the sage may on the final day be present.
> 12 For Kutsa, with thy thousand, thou at day-break didst hurl down greedy Susna, foe of harvest.
> Quickly with Kutsa's friend destroy the Dasyus, and roll the chariot-wheel of Sarya near us.
> 13 Thou to the son of Vidathin, Rjisvan, gavest up mighty Mrgaya and Pipru.
> Thou smotest down the swarthy fifty thousand, and rentest forts as age consumes a garment.
> 14 What time thou settest near the Sun thy body, thy form, Immortal One, is seen expanding:
> Thou a wild elephant with might invested. like a dread lion as thou wieldest weapons.
> 15 Wishes for wealth have gone to Indra, longing for him in war for light and at libation,
> Eager for glory, labouring with praisesongs: he is like home, like sweet and fair nutrition.
> 16 Call we for you that Indra, prompt to listen, him who hath done so much for men's advantage;
> Who, Lord of envied bounty, to a singer like me brings quickly booty worth the capture.
> 17 When the sharp-pointed arrow, O thou Hero, flieth mid any conflict of the people,
> When, Faithful One, the dread encounter cometh, then be thou the Protector of our body.
> 18 Further the holy thoughts of Vamadeva be thou a guileless Friend in fight for booty.
> We come to thee whose providence protects us: wide be thy sway for ever for thy singer.
> 19 O Indra, with these men who love thee truly, free givers, Maghavan, in every battle,
> May we rejoice through many autumns, quelling our foes, as days subdue the nights with splendour.
> 20 Now, as the Bhrgus wrought a car, for Indra the Strong, the Mighty, we our prayer have fashioned,
> That he may, ne'er withdraw from us his friendship, but be our bodies' guard and strong defender.
> 21 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let power swell. high like rivers for the singer.
> For thee a new hymn, Lord of Bays, is fashioned. May we, car-borne, through song be victors ever.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XVII. Indra.
> 
> 1. GREAT art thou, Indra; yea, the earth, with gladness, and heaven confess to thee thine high dominion.
> Thou in thy vigour having slaughtered Vrtra didst free the floods arrested by the Dragon.
> 2 Heaven trembled at the birth of thine effulgence; Earth trembled at the fear of thy displeasure.
> The stedfast mountains shook in agitation . the waters flowed, and desert spots were flooded.
> 3 Hurling his bolt with might he cleft the mountain, while, putting forth his strength, he showed his vigour.
> He slaughtered Vrtra with his bolt, exulting, and, their lord slain, forth flowed the waters swiftly.
> 4 Thy Father Dyaus esteemed himself a hero: most noble was the work of Indra's Maker,
> His who begat the strong bolt's Lord who roareth, immovable like earth from her foundation.
> 5 He who alone o'erthrows the world of creatures, Indra the peoples' King, invoked of many-
> Verily all rejoice in him, extolling the boons which Maghavan the God hath sent them.
> 6 All Soma juices are his own for ever, most gladdening draughts are ever his, the Mighty,
> Thou ever wast the Treasure-Lord of treasures: Indra, thou lettest all folk share thy bounty.
> 7 Moreover, when thou first wast born, O Indra, thou struckest terror into all the people.
> Thou, Maghavan, rentest with thy bolt the Dragon who lay against the waterfloods of heaven.
> 8 The ever-slaying, bold and furious Indra, the bright bolt's Lord, infinite, strong and mighty,
> Who slayeth Vrtra and acquireth booty, giver of blessings, Maghavan the bounteous:
> 9 Alone renowned as Maghavan in battles, he frighteneth away assembled armies.
> He bringeth us the booty that he winneth may we, well-loved, continue in his friendship.
> 10 Renowned is he when conquering and when slaying: 'fis he who winneth cattle in the combat.
> When Indra hardeneth his indignation all that is fixed and all that moveth fear him.
> 11 Indra hath won all kine, all gold, all horses,-Maghavan, he who breaketh forts in pieces;
> Most manly with these men of his who help him, dealing out wealth and gathering the treasure.
> 12 What is the care of Indra for his Mother, what cares he for the Father who begat him?
> His care is that which speeds his might in conflicts, like wind borne onward by the clouds that thunder.
> 13 Maghavan makes the settled man unsettled: he scatters dust that he hath swept together,
> Breaking in pieces like Heaven armed with lightning: Maghavan shall enrich the man who lauds h;m.
> 14 He urged the chariot-wheel of Surya forward: Etasa, speeding on his way, he rested.
> Him the black undulating cloud bedeweth, in this mid-air's depth, at the base of darkness,
> 15 As in the night the sacrificing priest.
> 16 Eager for booty, craving strength and horses, we-singers stir Indra, the strong, for friendship,
> Who gives the wives we seek, whose succour fails not, to hasten, like a pitcher to the fountain.
> 17 Be thou our guardian, show thyself our kinsman, watching and blessing those who pour the Soma;
> As Friend, as Sire, most fatherly of fathers giving the suppliant vital strength and freedom.
> 18 Be helping Friend of those who seek thy friendship . give life, when lauded, Indra, to the singer.
> For, Indra, we the priests have paid thee worship, exalting thee with these our sacrifices.
> 19 Alone, when Indra Maghavan is lauded, he slayeth many ne'er-resisted Vrtras.
> Him in whose keeping is the well-loved singer never do Gods or mortals stay or hinder.
> 20 E’en so let Maghavan, the loud-voiced Indra, give us true blessings, foeless, men's upholder.
> King of all creatures, give us glory amply, exalted glory due to him who lauds thee.
> 21 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let power swell high like rivers for the singer.
> For thee a new hymn, Lord of Bays! is fashioned. May we, car-borne, through song be victors ever.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XVIII. Indra and Others.
> 
> 1. THIS is the ancient and accepted pathway by which all Gods have come into existence.
> Hereby could one be born though waxen mighty. Let him not, otherwise, destroy his Mother.
> 2 Not this way go I forth: hard is the passage. Forth from the side obliquely will I issue.
> Much that is yet undone must I accomplish; one must I combat and the other question.
> 3 He bent his eye upon the dying Mother: My word I now withdraw. That way I follow.
> In Tvastar's dwelling India drank the Soma, a hundredworth of juice pressed from the mortar.
> 4 What strange act shall he do, he whom his Mother bore for a thousand months and many autumns?
> No peer hath he among those born already, nor among those who shall be born hereafter.
> 5 Deeming him a reproach, his mother hid him, Indra, endowed with all heroic valour.
> Then up he sprang himself, assumed his vesture, and filled, as soon as born, the earth and heaven.
> 6 With lively motion onward flow these waters, the Holy Ones, shouting, as 'twere, together.
> Ask them to. tell thee what the floods are saying, what girdling rock the waters burst asunder.
> 7 Are they addressing him with words of welcome? Will the floods take on them the shame of Indra?
> With his great thunderbolt my Son hath slaughtered Vrtra, and set these rivers free to wander.
> 8 I cast thee from me, mine,-thy youthful mother: thee, mine own offspring, Kusava hath swallowed.
> To him, mine infant, were the waters gracious. Indra, my Son, rose up in conquering vigour.
> 9 Thou art mine own, O Maghavan, whom Vyamsa struck to the ground and smote thy jaws in pieces.
> But, smitten through, the mastery thou wonnest, and with thy bolt the Dasa's head thou crushedst.
> 10 The Heifer hath brought forth the Strong, the Mighty, the unconquerable Bull, the furious Indra.
> The Mother left her unlicked Calf to wander, seeking himself, the path that he would follow.
> 11 Then to her mighty Child the Mother turned her, saying, My son, these Deities forsake thee.
> Then Indra said, about to slaughter Vrtra, O my friend Vrtra, stride full boldly forward.
> 12 Who was he then who made thy Mother widow? Who sought to stay thee lying still or moving?
> What God, when by the foot thy Sire thou tookest and slewest, was at hand to give thee comfort?
> 13 In deep distress I cooked a dog's intestines. Among the Gods I found not one to comfort.
> My consort I beheld in degradation. The Falcon then brought me the pleasant Soma.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XIX. Indra.
> 
> 1. THEE, verily, O Thunder-wielding Indra, all the Gods here, the Helpers swift to listen,
> And both the worlds elected, thee the Mighty, High, waxen strong, alone to slaughter Vrtra.
> 2 The Gods, as worn witheld, relaxed their efforts: thou, Indra, born of truth, wast Sovran Ruler.
> Thou slewest Ahi who besieged the waters, and duggest out their all-supporting channels.
> 3 The insatiate one, extended, hard to waken, who slumbered in perpetual sleep, O Indra,-
> The Dragon stretched against the seven prone rivers, where no joint was, thou rentest with thy thunder.
> 4 Indra with might shook earth and her foundation as the wind stirs the water with its fury.
> Striving, with strength he burst the firm asunder, and tore away the summits of the mountains.
> 5 They ran to thee as mothers to their offspring: the clouds, like chariots, hastened forth together.
> Thou didst refresh the streams and force the billows: thou, Indra, settest free obstructed rivers.
> 6 Thou for the sake of Vayya and Turviti didst stay the great stream, flowing, allsustaining:
> Yea, at their prayer didst check the rushing river and make the floods easy to cross, O Indra.
> 7 He let the young Maids skilled in Law, unwedded, like fountains, bubbling, flow forth streaming onward.
> He inundated thirsty plains and deserts, and milked the dry Cows of the mighty master.
> 8 Through many a morn and many a lovely autumn, having slain Vrtra, lie set free the rivers.
> Indra hath set at liberty to wander on earth the streams encompassed pressed together.
> 9 Lord of Bay Steeds, thou broughtest from the ant-hill the unwedded damsel's son whom ants were eating.
> The blind saw clearly, as he grasped the serpent, rose, brake the jar: hisjoints again united.
> 10 To the wise man, O Sage and Sovran Ruler, the man who knoweth all thine ancient exploits.
> Hath told these deeds of might as thou hast wrought them, great acts, spontaneous, and to man's advantage.
> 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let powers swell high, like rivers, for the singer.
> For thee a new hymn, Lord of Bays! is fashioned. May we, car-borne, through song be victors ever.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XX. Indra.
> 
> 1. FROM near or far away may mighty Indra giver of succour, come for our protection
> Lord of men, armed with thunder, with the Strongest, slaying his foes in conflict, in the battles.
> 2 May Indra come to us with Tawny Coursers, inclined to us, to favour and enrich us.
> May Maghavan, loud-voiced and wielding thunder, stand by us at this sacrifice, in combat.
> 3 Thou, honouring this our sacrifice, O Indra, shalt give us strength and fill us full of courage.
> To win the booty, Thunder-armed! like hunters may we with thee subdue in fight our foemen.
> 4 Loving us well, benevolent, close beside us, drink, Godlike Indra, of the wellpressed Soma.
> Drink of the meath we offer, and delight thee with food that cometh from the mountain ridges.
> 5 Him who is sung aloud by recent sages, like a ripe-fruited tree, a scythe-armed victor,-
> I, like a bridegroom thinking of his consort, call hither Indra, him invoked of many;
> 6 Him who in native strength is like a mountain, the lofty Indra born or old for conquest,
> Terrific wielder of the ancient thunder. filled full with splendour as a jar with water.
> 7 Whom from of old there is not one to hinder, none to curtail the riches of his bounty.
> Pouring forth freely, O thou Strong and Mighty, vouchsafe us riches, God invoked of many!
> 8 Of wealth and homes of men thou art the ruler, and opener of the stable of the cattle.
> Helper of men, winner of spoil in combats, thou leadest to an ample heap of riches.
> 9 By what great might is he renowned as strongest, wherewith the Lofty One stirs up wild battles?
> Best soother of the worshipper's great sorrow, he gives possessions to the man who lauds him.
> 10 Slay us not; bring, bestow onus the ample gift which thou hast to give to him who offers.
> At this new gift, with this laud sung before thee, extolling thee, we, Indra, will declare it.
> 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let power swell high, like rivers, for the singer.
> A new hymn, Lord of Bays! for thee is fashioned. May we, car-born, through song be victors ever.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXI. Indra.
> 
> 1. MAY Indra come to us for our protection; here be the Hero, praised, our feast-companion.
> May he whose powers are many, waxen mighty, cherish, like Dyaus, his own supreme dominion.
> 2 Here magnify his great heroic exploits, most glorious One, enriching men with bounties,
> Whose will is like a Sovran in assembly, who rules the people, Conqueror, all-surpassing.
> 3 Hither let Indra come from earth or heaven, hither with speech from firmament or ocean;
> With Maruts, from the realm of light to aid us, or from a distance, from the seat of Order.
> 4 That Indra will we laud in our assemblies, him who is Lord of great and lasting riches,
> Victor with Vayu where the herds are gathered, who leads with boldness on to higher fortune.
> 5 May the Priest, Lord of many blessings, striving,-who fixing reverence on reverence, giving
> Vent to his voice, inciteth men to worshipwith lauds bring Indra hither to our dwellings.
> 6 When sitting pondering in deep devotion in Ausija's abode they ply the press-stone,
> May he whose wrath is fierce, the mighty bearer, come as the house-lord's priest within our chambers.
> 7 Surely the power of Bharvara the mighty for ever helpeth to support the singer;
> That which in Ausija's abode lies hidden, to come forth for delight and for devotion.
> 8 When he unbars the spaces of the mountains, and quickens with his floods the water-torrents,
> He finds in lair the buffalo and wild-ox when the wise lead him on to vigorous exploit.
> 9 Auspicious are thy hands, thine arms wellfashioned which proffer bounty, Indra, to thy praiser.
> What sloth is this? Why dost thou not rejoice thee? Why dost thou not delight thyself with giving?
> 10 So Indra is the truthful Lord of treasure. Freedom he gave to man by slaying Vrtra.
> Much-lauded! help us with thy power to riches: may I be sharer of thy Godlike favour.
> 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let power swell high, like rivers, for,the singer.
> For thee a new hymn, Lord of Bays! is fashioned. May we, care-borne, through song be victqrs ever.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXII. Indra.
> 
> 1. THAT gift of ours which Indra loves and welcomes, even that he makes for us, the Great and Strong One.
> He who comes wielding in his might the thunder, Maghavan, gives prayer, praise, and laud, and Soma.
> 2 Bull, hurler of the four-edged rain-producer with both his arms, strong, mighty, most heroic;
> Wearing as wool Parusni for adornment, whose joints for sake of friendship he hath covered.
> 3 God who of all the Gods was born divinest, endowed with ample strength and mighty powers,
> And bearing in his arrns the yearning thunder, with violent rush caused heaven and earth to tremble.
> 4 Before the High God, at his birth, heaven trembled, earth, many floods and all the precipices.
> The Strong One bringeth nigh the Bull's two Parents: loud sing the winds, like men, in air's mid-region.
> 5 These are thy great deeds, Indra, thine, the Mighty, deeds to be told aloud at all libations,
> That thou, O Hero, bold and boldly daring, didst with thy bolt, by strength, destroy the Dragon.
> 6 True are all these thy deeds, O Most Heroic. The Milch-kine issued from the streaming udder.
> In fear of thee, O thou of manly spirit, the rivers swiftly set themselves in motion.
> 7 With joy, O Indra, Lord of Tawny Coursers, the Sisters then, these Goddesses, extolled thee,
> When thou didst give the prisoned ones their freedom to wander at their will in long succession.
> 8 Pressed is the gladdening stalk as 'twere a river: so let the rite, the toiler's power, attract thee
> To us-ward, of the Bright One, as the courser strains his. exceedingly strong leather bridle.
> 9 Ever by us perform thy most heroic, thine highest, best victorious deeds, O Victor.
> For us make Vrtras easy to be conquered: destroy the weapon of our mortal foeman.
> 10 Graciously listen to our prayer, O Indra, and strength of varied sort bestow thou on us.
> Send to us all intelligence arid wisdom O Maghavan, be he who gives us cattle.
> 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let wealth swell hiah like rivers to the singer.
> For thee a new hymn, Lord of Bays, is fashioned. May we, car-borne, through song be victors ever.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXIII. Indra.
> 
> 1. How, what priest's sacrifice hath he made mighty, rejoicing in the Soma and its fountain?
> Delighting in juice, eagerly drinking, the Lofty One hath waxed for splendid riches.
> 2 What hero hath been made his feast-companion? Who hath been partner in his loving-kindness?
> What know we of his wondrous acts? How often comes he to aid and speed the pious toiler?
> 3 How heareth Indra offered invocation? How, hearing, marketh he the invoker's wishes?
> What are his ancient acts of bounty? Wherefore call they him One who filleth full the singer?
> 4 How doth the priest who laboureth, ever longing, win for himself the wealth which he possesseth?
> May he, the God, mark well my truthful praises, having received the homage which he loveth.
> 5 How, and what bond of friendship with a mortal hath the God chosen as this morn is breaking?
> How, and what love hath he for those who love him, who have entwined in him their firm affection?
> 6 Is then thy friendship with thy friends most mighty? Thy brotherhood with us, -when may we tell it?
> The streams of milk move, as most wondrous sunlight, the beauty of the Lovely One for glory.
> 7 About to stay the Indra-less destructive spirit he sharpens his keen arms to strike her.
> Whereby the Strong, although our debts' exactor, drives in the distant mornings that we know not.
> 8 Eternal Law hath varied food that strengthens; thought of eternal Law, removes transgressions.
> The praise-hymn of eternal Law, arousing, glowing, hath oped the deaf ears of the living.
> 9 Firm-seated are eternal Law's foundations in its fair form are many splendid beauties.
> By holy Law long lasting food they bring us; by holy Law have cows come to our worship.
> 10 Fixing eternal Law he, too, upholds it swift moves the might of Law and wins the booty.
> To Law belong the vast deep Earth and Heaven: Milch-kine supreme, to Law their milk they render.
> 11 Now, Indra! lauded,- glorified with praises, let power swell high like rivers to the singer.
> For thee a new hymn, Lord of Bays, is fashioned. May we, car-borne, through song be victors ever.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXIV. Indra.
> 
> 1. WHAT worthy praise will bring before us Indra, the Son of Strength, that he may grant us riches;
> For he the Hero, gives the singer treasures: he is the Lord who sends us gifts, ye people.
> 2 To be invoked and hymned in fight with Vrtra, that well-praised Indra gives us real bounties.
> That Maghavan brings comfort in the foray to the religious man who pours libations.
> 3 Him, verily, the men invoke in combat; risking their lives they make him their protector,
> When heroes, foe to foe, give up their bodies, fighting, each side, for children and their offspring.
> 4 Strong God! the folk at need put forth their vigour, striving together in the whirl of battle.
> When warrior bands encounter one another some in the grapple quit themselves like Indra.
> 5 Hence many a one worships the might of Indra: hence let the brew succeed the meal-oblation.
> Hence let the Soma banish those who pour not: even hence I joy to pay the Strong One worship.
> 6 Indra gives comfort to the man who truly presses, for him who longs fot it, the Soma,
> Not disaffected, with devoted spirit this man he takes to be his friend in battles.
> 7 He who this day for Indra presses Soma, prepares the brew and fries the grains of barley-
> Loving the hymns of that devoted servant, to him may Indra give heroic vigour.
> 8 When the impetuous chief hath sought the confliet, and the lord looked upon the long-drawn battle,
> The matron calls to the Strong God whom pressers of Soma have encouraged int the dwelling.
> 9 He bid a small price for a thing of value: I was content, returning, still unpurchased.
> He heightened not his insufficient offer. Simple and clever, both milk out the udder.
> 10 Who for ten milch-kine purchaseth from rne this Indra who is mine?
> When he hath slain the Vrtras let the buyer give him back to me.
> 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let wealth swell high like rivers for the singer.
> For thee a new hymn, Lord of Bays, is fashioned. May we, car-borne, through song be victors ever.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXV. Indra.
> 
> 1. WHAT friend of man, God-loving, hath delighted, yearning therefor, this day in Indra's friendship?
> Who with enkindled flame and flowing Soma laudeth him for his great protecting favour?
> 2 Who hath with prayer bowed to the Soma-lover? What pious man endues the beams of morning?
> Who seeks bond, fritridship, brotherhood with Indra? Who hath recourse unto the Sage for succour?
> 3 Who claims to-day the Deities' protection, asks Aditi for light, or the Adityas?
> Of whose pressed stalk of Soma drink the Asvins, Indra, and Agni, well-inclined in spirit?
> 4 To him shall Agni Bharata give shelter: long shall he look upon the Sun up-rising,
> Who sayeth, Let us press the juice for Indra, man's Friend, the Hero manliest of heroes.
> 5 Him neither few men overcome, nor many to him shall Aditi give spacious shelter.
> Dear is the pious, the devout, to Indra dear is the zealous, dear the Soma-bringer.
> 6 This Hero curbs the mighty for the zealous: the presser's brew Indra possesses solely:
> No brother, kin, or friend to him who pours not, destroyer of the dumb who would resist him.
> 7 Not with the wealthy churl who pours no Soma doth Indra, Soma-drinker, bind alliance.
> He draws away his wealth and slays him naked, own Friend to him who offers, for oblation.
> 8 Highest and lowest, men who stand between diem, going, returning, dwelling in contentment,
> Those who show forth their strength when urged to battle-these are the men who call for aid on Indra.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXVI. Indra.
> 
> 1. I WAS aforetime Manu, I was Surya: I am the sage Kaksivan, holy singer.
> Kutsa the son of Arjuni I master. I am the sapient Usana behold me.
> 2 I have bestowed the earth upon the Arya, and rain upon the man who brings oblation.
> I guided forth the loudly-roaring waters, and the Gods moved according to my pleasure.
> 3 In the wild joy of Soma I demolished Sambara's forts, ninety-and-nine, together;
> And, utterly, the hundredth habitation, when helping Divodasa Atithigva.
> 4 Before all birds be ranked this Bird, O Maruts; supreme of falcons be this fleet-winged Falcon,
> Because, strong- pinioned, with no car to bear him, he brought to Manu the Godloved oblation.
> 5 When the Bird brought it, hence in rapid motion sent on the wide path fleet as thought he hurried.
> Swift he returned with sweetness of the Soma, and hence the Falcon hath acquired his glory.
> 6 Bearing the stalk, the Falcon speeding onward, Bird bringing from afar the draught that gladdens,
> Friend of the Gods, brought, grasping fast, the Soma which be bad taken from yon loftiest heaven.
> 7 The Falcon took and brought the Soma, bearing thousand libations with him, yea, ten thousand.
> The Bold One left Malignities behind him, wise, in wild joy of Soma, left the foolish.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXVII. The Falcon.
> 
> 1. I, As I lay within the womb, considered all generations of these Gods in order.
> A hundred iron fortresses confined me but forth I flew with rapid speed a Falcon.
> 2 Not at his own free pleasure did he bear me: he conquered with his strength and manly courage.
> Straightway the Bold One left the fiends behind him and passed the winds as he grew yet more mighty.
> 3 When with loud cry from heaven down sped the Falcon, thence hasting like the wind he bore the Bold One.
> Then, wildly raging in his mind, the archer Krsanu aimed and loosed the string to strike him.
> 4 The Falcon bore him from heaven's lofty summit as the swift car of Indra's Friend bore Bhujyu.
> Then downward bither fell a flying feather of the Bird hasting forward in his journey.
> 5 And now let Maghavan accept the beaker, white, filled with milk, filled with the shining liquid;
> The best of sweet meath which the priests have offered: that Indra to his joy may drink, the Hero, that he may take and drink it to his rapture.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXVIII. Indra-Soma.
> 
> 1. ALLIED with thee, in this thy friendship, Soma, Indra for man made waters flow together,
> Slew Ahi, and sent forth the Seven Rivers, and opened as it were obstructed fountains.
> 2 Indu, with thee for his confederate, Indra swiftly with might pressed down the wheel of Surya.
> What rolled, all life's support, on heaven's high summit was separated from the great oppressor.
> 3 Indra smote down, Agni consumed, O Indu, the Dasyus ere the noontide in the conflict.
> Of those who gladly sought a hard-won dwelling he cast down many a thousand with his arrow.
> 4 Lower than all besides hast thou, O Indra, cast down the Dasyus, abject tribes of Dasas.
> Ye drave away, ye put to death the foemen, and took great vengeance with your murdering weapons.
> 5 So, of a truth, Indra and Soma, Heroes, ye burst the stable of the kine and horses,
> The stable which the bar or stone obstructed; and piercing through set free the habitations.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXIX. Indra.
> 
> 1. COME, lauded, unto us with powers and succours, O Indra, with thy Tawny Steeds; exulting,
> Past even the foeman's manifold libations, glorified with our hymns, true Wealth-bestower.
> 2 Man's Friend, to this our sacrifice he cometh marking how he is called by Soma-pressers.
> Fearless, and conscious that his Steeds are noble, he joyeth with the Soma-pouring heroes.
> 3 Make his cars hear, that he may show his vigour and may be joyful in the way he loveth.
> May mighty Indra pouring forth in bounty bestow on us good roads and perfect safety;
> 4 He who with succour comes to his implorer, the singer here who with his song invites him;
> He who himself sets to the pole swift Coursers, he who hath hundreds, thousands, Thunder-wielder.
> 5 O Indra Maghavan, by thee protected may we be thine, princes and priests and singers,
> Sharing the riches sent from lofty heaven which yields much food, and all desire its bounty.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXX. Indra.
> 
> 1. O INDRA, Vrtra-slayer, none is better, mightier than thou:
> Verily there is none like thee.
> 2 Like chariot-wheels these people all together follow after thee:
> Thou ever art renowned as Great.
> 3 Not even all the gathered Gods conquered thee, Indra, in the war,
> When thou didst lengthen days by night.
> 4 When for the sake of those oppressed, and Kutsa as he battled,
> Thou stolest away the Sun's car-wheel.
> 5 When, fighting singly, Indra. thou o'ercamest all the furious Gods, thou slewest those who strove with thee.
> 6 When also for a mortal man, Indra, thou speddest forth the Sun,
> And holpest Etasa with might.
> 7 What? Vrtra-slayer, art not thou, Maghavan, fiercest in thy wrath?
> So hast thou quelled the demon too.
> 8 And this heroic deed of might thou, Indra, also hast achieved,
> That thou didst smite to death the Dame, Heaven's Daughter, meditating ill.
> 9 Thou, Indra, Mighty One, didst crush Usas, though Daughter of the Sky.
> When lifting up herself in pride.
> 10 Then from her chariot Usas fled, affrighted, from her ruined car.
> When the strong God had shattered it.
> 11 So there this car of Usas lay, broken to pieces, in Vipas,
> And she herself fled far away.
> 12 Thou, Indra, didst. with magic power resist the overflowing stream
> Who spread her waters o'er the land.
> 13 Valiantly didst thou seize and take the store which Susna had amassed,
> When thou didst crush his fortresses.
> 14 Thou, Indra, also smotest down Kulitara's son Sambara,
> The Dasa, from the lofty hill.
> 15 Of Dasa Varcin's thou didst slay the hundred thousand and the five,
> Crushed like the fellies, of a car.
> 16 So Indra, Lord of Heroes, Powers, caused the unwedded damsel's son,
> The castaway, to share the lauds.
> 17 So sapient Indra, Lord of Might, brought Turvaga and Yadu, those
> Who feared the flood, in safel o'er.
> 18 Arpa and Citraratha, both Aryas, thou, Indra, slewest swift,
> On yonder side of Sarayu,
> 19 Thou, Vrtra-slayer, didst conduct those two forlorn, the blind, the lame.
> None may attain this bliss of thine.
> 20 For Divodasa, him who brought oblationt, 1ndra overthrew
> A hundred fortresses of stone.
> 21 The thirty thousand Disas he with magic power and weapons sent
> To slumber, for Dabhiti's sake.
> 22 As such, O Vrtra-slayer, thou art general Lord of kine for all,
> Thou Shaker of all things that be.
> 23 Indra, whatever deed of might thou hast this day to execute,
> None be there now to hinder it.
> 24 O Watchful One, may Aryaman the God give thee all goodly things.
> May Risan, Bhaga, and the God Karulati give all things fair.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXXI. Indra.
> 
> 1. WITH what help will he come to us, wonderful, ever-waxing Friend;
> With what most mighty company?
> 2 What genuine and most liberal draught will spirit thee with juice to burst
> Open e'en strongly-guarded wealth?
> 3 Do thou who art Protector of us thy friends who praise thee
> With hundred aids approach us.
> 4 Like as a courser's circling wheel, so turn thee hitherward to us,
> Attracted by the hymns of men.
> 5 Thou seekest as it were thine own stations with swift descent of powers:
> I share thee even with the Sun.
> 6 What time thy courage and his wheels together, Indra, run their course
> With thee and with the Sun alike,
> 7 So even, Lord of Power and Might, the people call thee Maghavan,
> Giver, who pauses not to think.
> 8 And verily to him who toils and presses Soma juice for thee
> Thou quickly givest ample wealth.
> 9 No, not a hundred hinderers can check thy gracious bounty's flow,
> Nor thy great deeds when thou wilt act.
> 10 May thine assistance keep us safe, thy hundred and thy thousand aids:
> May all thy favours strengthen us.
> 11 Do thou elect us this place for friendship and prosperity,
> And great celestial opulence.
> 12 Favour us, Indra, evermore with overflowing store of wealth:
> With all thy succours aid thou us.
> 13 With new protections, Indra, like an archer, open thou forus
> The stables that are filled with kine.
> 14 Our chariot, Indra, boldly moves endued with splendour, ne'er repulsed,
> Winning for us both kine andsteeds.
> 15 O Surya, make our fame to be most excellent among the Gods,
> Most lofty as the heaven on high.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXXII. Indra.
> 
> 1. O THOU who slewest Vrtra, come, O Indra, hither to our side,
> Mighty One with thy mighty aids.
> 2 Swift and impetuous art thou, wondrous amid the well-dressed folk:
> Thou doest marvels for our help.
> 3 Even with the weak thou smitest down him
> who is stronger, with thy strength
> The mighty, with the Friends thou hast.
> 4 O Indra, we are close to thee; to thee we sing aloud our songs:
> Help hnd defend us, even us.
> 5 As such, O Caster of the Stone, come with thy succours wonderful,
> Blameless, and irresistible.
> 6 May we be friends of one like thee, O Indra, with the wealth of kine,
> Comrades for lively energy.
> 7 For thou, O Indra, art alone the Lord of strength that comes from kine
> So grant thou us abundant food.
> 8 They turn thee not another way, when, lauded, Lover of the Song,
> Thou wilt give wealth to those who praise.
> 9 The Gotamas have sung their song of praise to thee that thou mayst give,
> Indra, for lively energy.
> 10 We will declare thy hero deeds, what Disa forts thou brakest down,
> Attacking them in rapturous joy.
> 11 The sages sing those manly deeds which, Indra, Lover of the Song,
> Thou wrougbtest when the Soma flowed.
> 12 Indra, the Gotamas who bring thee praises have grown strong by thee.
> Give them renown with hero sons.
> 13 For, Indra, verily thou art the general treasure even of all .
> Thee, therefore, do we invocate.
> 14 Excellent Indra, turn to us: glad thee among us with the juice
> Of Somas, Soma-drinker thou.
> 15 May praise from us who think Qn thee, O Indra, bring thee near to us.
> Turn thy two Bay Steeds hitherward.
> 16 Eat of our sacrificial cake: rejoice thee in the songs we sing.
> Even as a lover in his bride.
> 17 To India for a thousand steeds well-trained and fleet of foot we pray,
> And hundred jars of Soma juice.
> 18 We make a hundred of thy kine, yea, and a thousand, hasten nigh:
> So let thy bounty come to us.
> 19 We have obtained, a gift from thee, ten water-ewers wrought of gold:
> Thou, Vrtra-slayer, givest much.
> 20 A bounteous Giver, give us much, bring much and not a trifling gift:
> Much, Indra, wilt thou fain bestow.
> 21 O Vrtra-slayer, thou art famed in many a place as bountiful
> Hero, thy bounty let us share.
> 22 I praise thy pair of Tawny Steeds, wise Son of him who giveth kine
> Terrify not the cows with these.
> 23 Like two slight images of girls, unrobed, upon a new-wrought post,
> So shine the Bay Steeds in their course.
> 24 For me the Bays are ready when I start, or start not, with the dawn, Innocuous in the ways they take.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXXIII. Rbhus.
> 
> I. I SEND my voice as herald to the Rbhus; I crave the white cow for the overspreading.
> Wind-sped, the Skillful Ones in rapid motion have in an instant compassed round the heaven.
> 2 What time the Rbus had with care and marvels done proper service to assist their Parents,
> They won the friendship of the Gods; the Sages carried away the fruit of their devotion.
> 3 May they who made their Parents, who were lying like posts that moulder, young again for ever,-
> May Vaja, Vibhvan, Rbhu, joined with Indra , protect our sacrifice, the Soma-lovers.
> 4 As for a year the Rbhus kept the Milch-cow, throughout a year fashioned and formed her body,
> And through a year's space still sustained her brightness, through these their labours they were made immortal.
> 5 Two beakers let us make,- thus said the eldest. Lct us make three,- this was the younger's sentence.
> Four beakers let us make,- thus spoke the youngest. Tvastar approved this rede of yours, O Rbhus.
> 6 The men spake truth and even so they acted: this Godlike way of theirs the Rbhus followed.
> And Tvastar, when he looked on the four beakers resplendent as the day, was moved with envy.
> 7 When for twelve days the Rbhus joyed reposing as guests of him who never may be hidden,
> lley made fair fertile fields, they brought the rivers. Plants spread o'er deserts, waters filled the hollows.
> 8 May they who formed the swift car, bearing Heroes, and the Cow omniform and all-impelling,
> Even may they form wealth for us,-the Rbhus, dexterous-handed, deft in work and gracious.
> 9 So in their work the Gods had satisfaction, pondering it with thought and mental insight.
> The Gods' expert artificer was Vaja, Indra's Rbhuksan, Varuna's was Vibhvan.
> 10 They whol made glad with sacrifice and praises, wrought the two Bays, his docile Steeds, for Indra,-
> Rbhus, as those who wish a friend to prosper, bestow upon us gear and growth of riches.
> 11 This day have they set gladdening drink before you. Not without toil are Gods inclined to friendship.
> Therefore do ye who are so great, O Rbhus, vouchsafe us treasures at this third libation.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXXIV. Rbhus.
> 
> 1. To this our sacrifice come Rbhu, Vibhvan, Vaja, and Indra with the gift of riches,
> Because this day hath Dhisana the Goddess set drink for you: the gladdening draughts have reached you.
> 2 Knowing your birth and rich in gathered treasure, Rbhus, rejoice together with the Rtus.
> The gladdening draughts and wisdom have approached you: send ye us riches with good store of heroes.
> 3 For you was made this sacrifice, O Rbhus, which ye, like men, won for yourselves aforetime.
> To you come all who find in you their pleasure: ye all were-even the two elder-Vajas.
> 4 Now for the mortal worshipper, O Heroes, for him who served you, was the gift of riches.
> Drink, Vajas, Rbhus! unto you is offered, to gladden you, the third and great libation.
> 5 Come to us, Heroes, Vajas and Rbhuksans, glorified for the sake of mighty treasure.
> These draughts approach you as the day is closing, as cows, whose calves are newly-born, their stable.
> 6 Come to this sacrifice of ours, ye Children of Strength, invoked with humble adoration.
> Drink of this meath, Wealth-givers, joined with Indra with whom ye are in full accord, ye Princes.
> 7 Close knit with Varuna drink the Soma, Indra; close-knit, ilymn-lover! with the Maruts drink it:
> Close-knit with drinkers first, who drink in season; close-knit with heavenly Dames who give us treasures.
> 8 Rejoice in full accord with the Adityas, in concord with the Parvatas, O Rbhus;
> In full accord with Savitar, Divine One; in full accord with floods that pour forth riches.
> 9 Rbhus, who helped their Parents and the Asvins, who formed the Milch-cow and the pair of horses,
> Made armour, set the heaven and earth asunder,-far- reaching Heroes, they have made good offspring.
> 10 Ye who have wealth in cattle and in booty, in heroes, in rich sustenance and treasure,
> Such, O ye Rbhus, first to drink, rejoicing, give unto us and those who laud our present.
> 11 Ye were not far: we have not left you thirsting, blameless in this our sacrifice, O Rbhus.
> Rejoice you with the Maruts and with Indra, with the Kings, Gods! that ye may give us riches.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXXV. Rbhus.
> 
> 1. Come hither, O ye Sons of Strength, ye Rbhus; stay not afar, ye Children of Sudhanvan.
> At this libation is your gift of treasure. Let gladdening draughts approach you after Indra's.
> 2 Hither is come the Rbhus' gift of riches; here was the drinking of the well-pressed Soma,
> Since by dexterity and skill as craftsmen ye made the single chalice to be fourfold 
> 3 Ye made fourfold the chalice that wag single: ye spake these words and said, O Friend, assist us;
> Then, Vajas! gained the path of life eternal, deft-handed Rbhus, to the Gods' assembly.
> 4 Out of what substance was that chalice fashioned which ye made fourfold by your art and wisdom?
> Now for the gladdening draught press out the liquor, and drink, O Rbhus, of die meath of Soma.
> 5 Ye with your cunning made your Parents youthful; the cup, for Gods to drink, ye formed with cunning;
> With cunning, Rbhus, rich in treasure, fashioned the two swift Tawny Steeds who carry Indra.
> 6 Whoso pours out for you, when days are closing, the sharp libation for your joy, O Vajas,
> For him, O mighty Rbhus, ye, rejoicing, have fashioned wealth with plenteous store of heroes.
> 7 Lord of Bay Steeds, at dawn thejuice thou drankest: thine, only thine, is the noonday libation.
> Now drink thou with the wealth-bestowing Rbhus, whom for their skill thou madest friends, O Indra.
> 8 Ye, whom your artist skill hath raised to Godhead have set you down above in heaven like falcons.
> So give us riches, Children of Sudhanvan, O Sons of Strength; ye have become immortal.
> 9 The third libation, that bestoweth treasure, which ye have won by skill, ye dexterous-handed,-
> This drink hath been effused for you, O Rbhus . drink it with high delight, with joy like Indra's.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXXVI. Rbhus.
> 
> 1. THia car that was not made for horses or for reins, three-wheeled, worthy of lauds, rolls round the firmament.
> That is the great announcement of your Deity, that, O ye Rbhus, ye sustain the earth and heaven.
> 2 Ye Sapient Ones who made the lightly-rolling car out of your mind, by thought, the car that never errs,
> You, being such, to drink of this drinkoffering, you, O ye Vajas, and ye Rbhus, we invoke.
> 3 O Vajas, Rbhus, reaching far, among the Gods this was your exaltation gloriously declared,
> In that your aged Parents, worn with length of days, ye wrought again to youth so that they moved at will.
> 4 The chalice that wag single ye have made fourfold, and by your wisdom brought the Cow forth from the hide.
> So quickly, mid the Gods, ye gained immortal life. Vajas and Rbhus, your great work must be extolled.
> 5 Wealth from the Rbhus is most glorious in renown, that which the Heroes, famed for vigour, have produced.
> In synods must be sung the car which Vibhvan wrought: that which ye favour, Gods! is famed among mankind.
> 6 Strong is the steed, the man a sage in eloquence, the bowman is a hero hard to beat in fight,
> Great store of wealth and manly power hath he obtained whom Vaja, Vibhvan, Rbhus have looked kindly on.
> 7 To you hath been assigned the fairest ornament, the hymn of praise: Vajas and Rbhus, joy therein;
> For ye have lore and wisdom and poetic skill: as such, with this our prayer we call on you to come.
> 8 According to the wishes of our hearts may ye, who have full knowledge of all the delights of men,
> Fashion for us, O Rbhus, power and splendid wealth, rich in high courage, excellent, and vital strength.
> 9 Bestowing on us here riches and offspring, here fashion fame for us befitting heroes.
> Vouchsafe us wealth of splendid sort, O Rbhus, that we may make us more renowned than others.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXXVII. Rbhus.
> 
> 1. COME to our sacrifice, Vajas, Rbhuksans, Gods, by the paths which Gods are wont to travel,
> As ye, gay Gods, accept in splendid weather the sacrifice among these folk of Manus.
> 2 May these rites please you in your heart and spirit; may the drops clothed in oil this day approach you.
> May the abundant juices bear you onward to power and strength, and, when imbibed, delight you.
> 3 Your threefold going near is God-appointed, so praise is given you, Vajas and Rbhuksans.
> So, Manus-like, mid younger folk I offer, to you who are aloft in heaven, the Soma.
> 4 Strong, with fair chains of gold and jaws of iron, ye have a splendid car and well-fed horses.
> Ye Sons of Strength, ye progeny of Indra, to you the best is offered to delight you.
> 5 Rbhuksans! him, for handy wealth, the mightiest comrade in the fight,
> Him, Indra's equal, we invoke, most bounteous ever, rich in steeds.
> 6 The mortal man whom, Rbhus, ye and Indra favour with your help,
> Must be successful, by his thoughts, at sacrifice and with the steed.
> 7 O Vajas and Rbhuksans, free for us the paths to sacrifice,
> Ye Princes, lauded, that we may press forward to each point of heaven.
> 8 O Vajas and Rbhuksans, ye Nasatyas, Indra, bless this wealth,
> And, before other men's, the steed, that ample riches may be won.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXXVIII. Dadhikris.
> 
> 1. FROM you two came the gifts in days aforetime which Trasadasyu granted to the Purus.
> Ye gave the winner of our fields and plough-lands, and the strong smiter who subdued the Dasytis.
> 2 And ye gave mighty Dadhikras, the giver of many gifts, who visiteth all people,
> Impetuous hawk, swift and of varied colour, like a brave King whom each true man must honour.
> 3 Whom, as 'twere down a precipice, swift rushing, each Puru praises and his heart rejoices,-
> Springing forth like a hero fain for battle, whirling the car and flying like the tempest.
> 4 Who gaineth precious booty in the combats and moveth, winning spoil, among the cattle;
> Shown in bright colour, looking on the assemblies, beyond the churl, to worship of the living.
> 5 Loudly the folk cry after him in battles, as 'twere a thief who steals away a garment;
> Speeding to glory, or a herd of cattle, even as a hungry falcon swooping downward.
> 6 And, fain to come forth first amid these armies, this way and that with rows of cars he rushes,
> Gay like a bridesman, making him a garland, tossing the dust, champing the rein that holds him.
> 7 And that strong Steed, victorious and faithful, obedient with his body in the combat,
> Speeding straight on amid the swiftly ressing, casts o'er his brows the dust he tosses upward.
> 8 And at his thunder, like the roar of heaven, those who attack tremble and are affrighted;
> For when he fights against embattled thousands, dread is he in his striving; none may stay him.
> 9 The people praise the overpowering swiftness of this fleet Steed who giveth men abundance.
> Of him they say when drawing back from battle. Dadhikras hath sped forward with his thousands.
> 10 Dadhikras hath o'erspread the Fivefold People with vigour, as the Sun lightens the waters.
> May the strong Steed who winneth bundreds, thousands, requite with sweetness these my words and praises.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XXXIX Dadhikras.
> 
> 1. Now give we praise to Dadhikras the rapid, and mention in our laud the Earth and Heaven.
> May the Dawns flushing move me to exertion, and bear me safely over every trouble.
> 2 I praise the mighty Steed who fills my spirit, the Stallion Dadhikravan rich in bounties,
> Whom, swift of foot aind shining bright as Agni, ye, Varuna and Mitra, gave to Purus.
> 3 Him who hath honoured, when the flame is kindled at break of dawn, the Courser Dadhikrivan,
> Him, of one mind with Varuna and Mitra may Aditi make free from all transgression.
> 4 When we remember mighty Dadhikravan our food and strength, then the blest name of Maruts,
> Varuna, Mitra, we invoke for welfare, and Agni, and the thunder-wielding Indra.
> 5 Both sides invoke him as they call on Indra when they stir forth and turn to sacrificing.
> To us have Varuna and Mitra granted the Courser Dadhikris, a guide for mortals.
> 6 So have I glorified with praise strong Dadhikravan, conquering Steed.
> Sweet may he make our mouths; may he prolong the days we have to live.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XL. Dadhikravan.
> 
> 1. LET us recite the praise of Dadhikravan: may all the Mornings move me to exertion;
> Praise of the Lord of Waters, Dawn, and Agni, Brhaspati Son of Angiras, and Surya.
> 2 Brave, seeking war and booty, dwelling with the good and with the swift, may he hasten the food of Dawn.
> May he the true, the fleet, the lover of the course, the bird-like Dadhikravan, bring food, strength, and light.
> 3 His pinion, rapid runner, fans him m his way, as of a bird that hastens onward to its aim,
> And, as it were a falcon's gliding through the air, strikes Dadhikravan's side as he speeds on with might.
> 4 Bound by the neck and by the flanks and by the mouth, the vigorous Courser lends new swiftness to his speed.
> Drawing himself together, as his strength allows, Dadhikras springs along the windings of the paths.
> 5 The Hamsa homed in light, the Vasu in mid-air, the priest beside the altar, in the house the guest,
> Dweller in noblest place, mid men, in truth, in sky, born of flood, kine, truth, mountain, he is holy Law.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XLI. Indra-Varuna.
> 
> 1. WHAT laud, O Indra-Varuna, with oblation, hath like the Immortal Priest obtained your favour?
> Hath our effectual laud, addressed with homage, touched you, O Indra-Varuna, in spirit?
> 2 He who with dainty food hath won you, Indra and Varuna, Gods, as his allies to friendship,
> Jayeth the Vrtras and his foes in battles, and through your mighty favours is made famous.
> 3 Indra and Varuna are most liberal givers of treasure to the men who toil to serve them,
> When they, as Friends inclined to friendship, honoured with dainty food, delight in flowing Soma.
> 4 Indra and Varuna, ye hurl, O Mighty, on him your strongest flashing bolt of thunder
> Who treats us ill, the robber and oppressor: measure on him your overwhelming vigour.
> 5 O Indra-Varuna, be ye the lovers of this my song, as steers who love the milch-Cow.
> Milk may it yield us as, gone forth to pasture, the great Cow pouring out her thousand rivers.
> 6 For fertile fields, for worthy sons and grandsons, for the Sun's beauty and for steer-like vigour,
> May Indra-Varuna with gracious favours work marvels for us in the stress of battle.
> 7 For you, as Princes, for your ancient kindness, good comrades of the man who seeks for booty,
> We choose to us for the dear bond of friendship, most liberal Heroes bringing bliss like parents.
> 8 Showing their strength, these hymns for grace, Free-givers I have gone to you, devoted, as to battle.
> For glory have they gone, as milk to Soma, to Indra-Varuna my thoughts and praises.
> 9 To Indra and to Varuna, desirous of gaining wealth have these my thoughts proceeded.
> They have come nigh to you as treasurelovers, like mares, fleet-footed, eager for the glory.
> 10 May we ourselves be lords of during riches, of ample sustenance for car and hones.
> So may the Twain who work with newest succours bring yoked teams hitherward to us and riches.
> 11 Come with your mighty succours, O ye Mighty; come, Indra-Varuna, to us in battle.
> What time the flashing arrows play in combat, may we through you be winners in the contest.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XLIL Indra-Varuna.
> 
> 1. I AM the royal Ruler, mine is empire, as mine who sway all life are all Immortals.
> Varuna's will the Gods obey and follow. I am the King of men's most lofty cover.
> 2 I am King Varuna. To me were given these first existinghigh celestial powers.
> Varuna's will the Gods obey and follow. I am the King of men's most lofty cover.
> 3 I Varuna am Indra: in their greatness, these the two wide deep fairly-fashioned regions,
> These the two world-halves have I, even as Tvastar knowing all beings, joined and held together.
> 4 I made to flow the moisture-shedding waters, and set the heaven firm in the scat of Order.
> By Law the Son of Aditi, Law Observer, hath spread abroad the world in threefold measure.
> 5 Heroes with noble horses, fain for battle, selected warriors, call on me in combat.
> I Indra Maghavan, excite the conflict; I stir the dust, Lord of surpassing vigour.
> 6 All this I did. The Gods' own conquering power never impedeth me whom none opposeth.
> When lauds and Soma juice have made me joyful, both the unbounded regions are affrighted.
> 7 All beings know these deeds of thine thou tellest this unto Varuna, thou great Disposer!
> Thou art renowned as having slain the Vrtras. Thou madest flow the floods that were obstructed.
> 8 Our fathers then were these, the Seven his, what time the son of Durgaha was captive.
> For her they gained by sacrifice Trasadasyu, a demi-god, like Indra, conquering foemen.
> 9 The spouse of Purukutsa gave oblations to you, O Indra-Varuna, with homage.
> Then unto her ye gave King Trasadasyu, the demi-god, the slayer of the foeman.
> 10 May we, possessing much, delight in riches, Gods in oblations and the kine in pasture;
> And that Milch-cow who ahrinks not from the milking, O Indra-Varuna, give to us daily.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XLIII. Asvins.
> 
> 1. WHO will hear, who of those who merit worship, which of all Gods take pleasure in our homage?
> On whose heart shall we lay this laud celestial, rich with fair offerings, dearest to Immortals?
> 2 Who will be gracious? Who will come most uickly of all the Gods? Who will
> bring liss most largely?
> What car do they call swift with rapid coursers? That which the Daughter of the Sun elected.
> 3 So many days do ye come swiftly hither, as Indra to give help in stress of battle.
> Descended from the sky, divine, strong-pinioned, by which of all your powers are ye most mighty?
> 4 What is the prayer that we should bring you, Asvins, whereby ye come to us when invocated?
> Whether of you confronts e'en great betrayal? Lovers of sweetness, Dasras, help and save us.
> 5 In the wide space your chariot reacheth heaven, what time it turneth hither from the ocean.
> Sweets from your sweet shall drop, lovers of sweetness! These have they dressed for you as dainty viands.
> 6 Let Sindhu with his wave bedew your horses: in fiery glow have the red birds come hither.
> Observed of all was that your rapid going, whereby ye were the Lords of Siirya's Daughter.
> 7 Whene'er I gratified you here together, your grace was given us, O ye rich in booty.
> Protect, ye Twain, the singer of your praises: to you, Nasatyas, is my wish directed.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XLIV. Asvins.
> 
> 1. WE will invoke this day your car, farspreading, O Asvins, even the gathering, of the sunlight,-
> Car praised in hymns, most ample, rich in treasure, fitted with seats, the car that beareth Surya.
> 2 Asvins, ye gained that glory by your Godhead, ye Sons of Heaven, by your own might and power.
> Food followeth close upon your bright appearing when stately horses in your chariot draw you.
> 3 Who bringeth you to-day for help with offered oblation, or with hymns to drink the juices?
> Who, for the sacrifice's ancient lover, turneth you hither, Asvins, offering homage?
> 4 Borne on your golden car, ye omnipresent! come to this sacrifice of ours, Nasatyas.
> Drink of the pleasant liquor of the Soma give riches to the people who adore you.
> 5 Come hitherward to us from earth, from heaven, borne on your golden chariot rolling lightly.
> Suffer not other worshippers to stay you here are ye bound by earlier bonds of friendship.
> 6 Now for us both, mete out, O WonderWorkers, riches exceeding great with store of heroes,
> Because the men have sent you praise, O Asvins, and Ajamilhas come to the laudation.
> 7 Whene'er I gratified you here together, your grace was given us, O ye rich in booty.
> Protect, ye Twain, the singer of your praises: to you, Nasatyas, is my wish directed.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XLV. Asvins
> 
> 1. YONDER goes up that light: your chariot is yoked that travels round upon the summit of this heaven.
> Within this car are stored three kindred shares of food, and a skin filled with meath is rustling as the fourth.
> 2 Forth come your viands rich with store of pleasant meath, and cars and horses at the flushing of the dawn,
> Stripping the covering from the surrounded gloom, and spreading through mid-air bright radiance like the Sun.
> 3 Drink of the meath with lips accustomed to the draught; harness for the meath's sake the chariot that ye love.
> Refresh the way ye go, refresh the paths with meath: hither, O Asvins, bring the skin that holds the meath.
> 4 The swans ye have are friendly, rich in store of mcath, gold-pinioned, strong to draw, awake at early morn,
> Swimming the flood, exultant, fain for draughts that cheer: ye come like flies to our libations of-the meath.
> 5 Well knowing solemn rites and rich in meath, the fires sing to the morning Asvins at the break of day,
> When with pure hands the prudent energetic priest hath with the stones pressed out the Soma rich in meath.
> 6 The rays advancing nigh, chasing with day the gloom, spread through the firmament bright radiance like the Sun;
> And the Sun harnessing his horses goeth forth: ye through your Godlike nature let his paths be known.
> 7 Devout in thought I have declared, O Asvins, your chariot with good steeds, which lasts for ever,
> Wherewith ye travel swiftly through the regions to the prompt worshipper who brings oblation.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XLVI. Vayu. Indra-Vayu
> 
> 1. DRINK the best draught of Soma-juice, O Vayu, at our holy rites:
> For thou art he who drinketh first.
> 2 Come, team-drawn, with thy hundred helps, with Indra, seated in the car,
> Vaya, and drink your fill of juice.
> 3 May steeds a thousand bring you both, Indra. and Vayu, hitherward
> To drink the Soma, to the feagt.
> 4 For ye, O Indra-Vayu, mount the goldenseated car that aids
> The sacrifice, that reaches heaven.
> 5 On far-refulgent chariot come unto the man who offers gifts:
> Come, Indra-Vayu, hitherward.
> 6 Here, Indra-Vayu, is the juice: drink it, accordant with the Gods,
> Within the giver's dwelling-place.
> 7 Hither, O Indra-Vayu, be your journey here unyoke your steeds,
> Here for your draught of Soma juice.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XLVIL Vayu. Indra-Vayu.
> 
> 1. Vayu, the bright is offered thee, best of the meath at holy rites.
> Come thou to drink the Soma juice, God, longed-for, on thy team-drawn car.
> 2 O Vayu, thou and Indra are meet drinkers of these Soma-draughts,
> For unto you the drops proceed as waters gather to the vale.
> 3 O Indra-Vayu, mighty Twain, speeding together, Lords of Strength,
> Come to our succour with your team, that ye may drink the Soma juice.
> 4 The longed-for teams which ye possess, O Heroes, for the worshipper,
> Turn to us, Indra-Vayu, ye to whom the sacrifice is paid.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XLVIII. Vayu.
> 
> 1. TASTE offerings never tasted yet, as bards enjoy the foeman's wealth.
> O Vayu, on refulgent car come to the drinking of the juice.
> 2 Removing curses, drawn by teams, with 1ndra, seated by thy side,
> O Vayu, on refulgent car come to the drinking of the juice.
> 3 The two dark treasuries of wealth that wear
> all beauties wait on thee.
> O Vayu, on refulgent car come to the drinking of the juice.
> 4 May nine-and-ninety harnessed steeds who yoke them at thy will bring thee.
> O Vayu, on refulgent car come to the drinking of the juice.
> 5 Harness, O Vayu, to thy car a hundred well-fed tawny steeds,
> Yea, or a thousand steeds, and let thy chariot come to us with might.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN XLIX. Indra-Brhaspati.
> 
> 1. DEAR is this offering in your mouth, O Indra and Brhaspati:
> Famed is the laud, the gladdening draught.
> 2 This lovely Soma is effused, O Indra and Brhaspati,
> For you, to drink it and rejoice.
> 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,
> With store of horses, thousandfold.
> 5 O Indra. and Brhaspati, we call you when the meath is shed,
> With songs, to drink the Soma juice.
> 6 Drink, Indra and Brhaspati, the Soma in the giver's house:
> Delight yourselves abiding there.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN L. Brhaspati.
> 
> 1. Him who with might hath propped earth's ends, who sitteth in threefold seat, Brhaspati, with thunder,
> Him of the pleasant tongue have ancient sages, deep-thinking, holy singers, set before them.
> 2 Wild in their course, in well-marked wise rejoicing were they, Brhaspati, who pressed around us.
> Preserve Brhaspati, the stall uninjured, this company's raining, ever-moving birthplace.
> 3 Brhaspati, from thy remotest distance have they sat down who love the law eternal.
> For thee were dug wells springing from the mountain, which murmuring round about pour streams of sweetness.
> 4 Brhaspati, when first he had his being from mighty splendour in supremest heaven,
> Strong, with his sevenfold mouth, with noise of thunder, with his seven rays, blew and dispersed the darkness.
> 5 With the loud-shouting band who sang his praises, with thunder, he destroyed obstructive Vala.
> Brhaspati thundering drave forth the cattle, the lowing cows who make oblations ready.
> 6 Serve we with sacrifices, gifts, and homage even thus the Steer of all the Gods, the Father.
> Brhaspati, may we be lords of riches, with noble progeny and store of heroes.
> 7 Surely that King by power and might heroic hath made him lord of all his foes' posses-ions,
> Who cherishes Brhaspati well-tended, adorns and worships him as foremost sharer.
> 8 In his own house he dwells in peace and comfort: to him for ever holy food flows richly.
> To him the people with free will pay homage-the King with whom the Brahman hatb precedence.
> 9 He, unopposed, is master of the riches.of his own subjects and of hostile people.
> The Gods uphold that King with their protection who helps the Brahman when he seeks his favour.
> 10 Indra, Brhaspati, rainers of treasure, rejoicing at this sacrifice drink the Soma.
> Let the abundant drops sink deep within you: vouchsafe us riches with full store of heroes.
> 11 Brhaspati and Indra, make us prosper may this be your benevolence to usward.
> Assist our holy thoughts, wake up our spirit: weaken the hatred of our foe and rivals.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN LI. Dawn.
> 
> 1. FORTH from the darkness in the region eastward this most abundant splendid light hatb mounted.
> Now verily the far-refulgent Mornings, Daughters of Heaven, bring welfare to the people.
> 2 The richly-coloured Dawns have mounted eastward, like pillars planted at our sacrifices,
> And, flushing far, splendid and purifying, unbarred the portals of the fold of darkness.
> 3 Dispelling gloom this day the wealthy Mornings urge liberal givers to present their treasures.
> In the unlightened depth of darkness round them let niggard traffickers sleep unawakened.
> 4 O Goddesses, is this your car, I ask you, ancient this day, or is it new, ye Mornings,
> Wherewith, rich Dawns, ye seek with wealth Navagva, Dasagva Angira, the seven-toned singer?
> 5 With horses harnessed by eternal Order, Goddesses, swiftly round the worlds ye travel,
> Arousing from their rest, O Dawns, the sleeping, and all that lives, man, bird, and beast, to motion.
> 6 Which among these is eldest, and where is she through whom they fixed the Rbhus' regulations?
> What time the splendid Dawns go forth for splendour, they are not known aparto alike, unwasting.
> 7 Blest were these Dawns of old, shining with succour, true with the truth that springs from holy Order;
> With whom the toiling worshipper, by praises, hymning and lauding, soon attained to riches.
> 8 Hither from eastward all at once they travel, from one place spreading in the selfsame manner.
> Awaking, from the seat of holy Order the Godlike Dawns come nigh like troops of cattle.
> 9 Thus they go forth with undiminished colours, these Mornings similar, in self-same fashion,
> Concealing the gigantic might of darkness with radiant bodies bright and pure and shining.
> 10 O Goddesses, O Heaven's refulgent Daughters, bestow upon us wealth with store of children.
> As from our pleasant place of rest ye rouse us may we be masters of heroic vigour.
> 11 Well-skilled in lore of sacrifice, ye Daughters of Heaven, refulgent Dawns, I thus address you.
> May we be glorious among the people. May Heaven vouchsafe us this, and Earth the Goddess,
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN LIL Dawm.
> 
> 1. THIS Lady, giver of delight, after her Sister shining forth, Daughter of Heaven, hath shown herself.-
> 2 Unfailing, Mother of the Kine, in colour like a bright red mare,
> The Dawn became the Asvins' Friend.
> 3 Yea, and thou art the Asvins' Friend, the Mother of the Kine art thou:
> O Dawn thou rulest over wealth.
> 4 Thinking of thee, O joyous One, as her who driveth hate away,
> We woke to meet thee with our lauds.
> 5 Our eyes behold thy blessed rays like troops of cattle loosed to feed.
> Dawn hath filled full the wide expanse.
> 6 When thou hast filled it, Fulgent One! thou layest bare the gloom with light.
> After thy nature aid us, Dawn.
> 7 Thou overspreadest heaven with rays, the dear wide region of mid-air.
> With thy bright shining lustre, Dawn.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN LIII. Savitar.
> 
> 1. OF Savitar the God, the sapient Asura, we crave this great gift which is worthy of our choice,
> Wherewith he freely grants his worshiper defence. This with his rays the Great God hath vouchsafed to us.
> 2 Sustainer of the heaven, Lord of the whole world's life, the Sage, he putteth on his golden-coloured mail.
> Clear-sighted, spreading far, filling the spacious realm, Savitar hath brought forth bliss that deserveth laud.
> 3 He hath filled full the regions of the heaven and earth: the God for his own strengthening waketh up the hymn.
> Savitar hath stretched out his arms to cherish life, producing with his rays and lulling all that moves.
> 4 Lighting all living creatures, neer to be deceived, Savitar, God, protects each holy ordinance.
> He hath stretched out his arms to all the folk of earth, and, with his laws observed, rules his own mighty course.
> 5 Savitar thrice surrounding with his mightiness mid-air, three regions, and the triple sphere of light,
> Sets the three heavens in motion and the threefold earth, and willingly protects us with his triple law.
> 6 Most gracious God, who brings to life and lulls to rest, he who controls the world, what moves not and what moves,
> May he vouchsafe us shelter, -Savitar the God,- for tranquil life, with triple bar against distress.
> 7 With the year's seasons hath Savitar, God, come nigh: may he prosper our home, give food and noble sons.
> May he invigorate us through the days and nights, and may he send us opulence with progeny.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN LIV. Savitar.
> 
> 1. Now must we praise and honour Savitar the God: at this time of the day the men must call to him,
> Him who distributes wealth to Manu's progeny, that he may grant us here riches most excellent.
> 2 For thou at first producest for the holy Gods the noblest of all portions, immor-tality:
> Thereafter as a gift to men, O Savitar, thou openest existence, life succeeding life.
> 3 If we, men as we are, have sinned against the Gods through want of thought, in weakness, or through insolence,
> Absolve us from the guilt and make us free from sin, O Savitar, alike among both Gods and men.
> 4 None may impede that power of Savitar the God whereby he will maintain the universal world.
> What the fair-fingered God brings forth on earth's expanse or in the heightof heaven, that work of his stands sure.
> 5 To lofty hills thou sendest those whom Indra leads, and givest fixed abodes with houses unto these.
> However they may fly and draw themselves apart, still, Savitar, they stand obeying thy behest.
> 6 May the libations poured to thee thrice daily, day after day, O Savitar, bring us blessing.
> May Indra, Heaven, Earth, Sindhu with the Waters, Aditi with Adityas, give us shelter.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN LV. Visvedevas.
> 
> 1. WHO of you, Vasus, saveth? who protecteth? O Heaven and Earth and Aditi, preserve us,
> Varuna., Mitra, from the stronger mortal. Gods, which of you at sacrifice giveth comfort?
> 2 They who with laud extol the ancient statutes, when they shine forth infallible dividers,
> Have ordered as perpetual Ordainers, and beamed as holy-thoughted WonderWorkers.
> 3 The Housewife Goddess, Aditi, and Sindhu, the Goddess Svasti I implore for friendship:
> And may the unobstructed Night and Morning both, day and night, provide for our protection.
> 4 Aryaman, Varuna have disclosed the pathway, Agni as Lord of Strength the road to welfare.
> Lauded in manly mode may Indra-Visnu grant us their powerful defence and shelter.
> 5 I have besought the favourof the Maruts, of Parvata, of Bhaga God who rescues.
> From trouble caused by man the Lord preserve us; from woe sent by his friend let Mitra save us.
> 6 Agree, through these our watery oblations, Goddesses, Heaven and Earth, with Ahibudhnya.
> As if to win the sea, the Gharma-heaters have opened, as they come anear, the rivers.
> 7 May Goddess Aditi with Gods defend us, save us the saviour God with care unceasing.
> We dare not stint the sacred food of Mitra and Varuna upon the back of Agni.
> 8 Agni is Sovran Lord of wealth, Agni of great prosperity:
> May he bestow these gifts on us.
> 9 Hither to us, rich pleasant Dawn, bring many things to be desired,
> Thou who hast ample store of wealth.
> 10 So then may Bhaga, Savitar, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, Indra, with bounty come to us.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN LVI. Heaven and Earth.
> 
> 1. MAY mighty Heaven and Earth, most meet for honour, be present here with light and gleaming splendours;
> When, fixing them apart, vast, most extensive, the Steer roars loudly in far-reaching courses.
> 2 The Goddesses with Gods, holy with holy, the Two stand pouring out their rain, exhaustless:
> Faithful and guileless, having Gods for children, leaders of sacrifice with shining splendours.
> 3 Sure in the worlds he was a skilful Craftsman, he who produced these Twain the Earth and Heaven.
> Wise, with his power he brought both realms, together spacious and deep, wellfashioned, unsupported.
> 4 O Heaven and Earth, with one accord promoting, with high protection as of Queens, our welfare,
> Far-reaching, universal, holy, guard us. May we, car-borne, through song be victors ever.
> 5 To both of you, O Heaven and Earth, we bring our lofty song of praise,
> Pure Ones! to glorify you both.
> 6 Ye sanctify each other's form, by your own proper might ye rule,
> And from of old observe the Law.
> 7 Furthering and fulfilling, ye, O Mighty, perfect Mitra's Law.
> Ye sit around our sacrifice.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN LVII. Ksetrapati, Etc.
> 
> 1. WE through the Master of the Field, even as through a friend, obtain
> What nourisheth our kine and steeds. In such may he be good to us.
> 2 As the cow yieldeth milk, pour for us freely, Lord of the Field, the wave that beareth sweetness,
> Distilling meath, well-purified like butter, and let the. Lords of holy Law be gracious.
> 3 Sweet be the plants for us. the heavens, the waters, and full of sweets for us be air's mid-region.
> May the Field's Lord for us be full of sweetness, and may we follow after him uninjured.
> 4 Happily work our steers and men, may the plough furrow happily.
> Happily be the traces bound; happily may he ply the goad.
> 5 Suna and Sira, welcome ye this laud, and with the milk which ye have made in heaven
> Bedew ye both this earth of ours.
> 6 Auspicious Sita, come thou near: we venerate and worship thee
> That thou mayst bless and prosper us and bring us fruits abundantly.
> 7 May Indra press the furrow down, may Pusan guide its course aright.
> May she, as rich in milk, be drained for us through each succeeding year.
> 8 Happily let the shares turn up the ploughland, happily go the ploughers with the oxen.
> With meath and milk Parjanya make us happy. Grant us prosperity, Suna and Sira.
> 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> HYMN LVIII. Ghrta.
> 
> 1. FORTH from the ocean sprang the wave of sweetness: together with the stalk it turned to Amrta,
> That which is holy oil's mysterious title: but the Gods' tongue is truly Amrta's centre.
> 2 Let us declare aloud the name of Ghrta, and at this sacrifice hold it up with homage.
> So let the Brahman hear the praise we utter. This hath the four-horned Buffalo emitted.
> 3 Four are his horns, three are the feet that bear him; his heads are two, his hands are seven in number.
> Bound with a triple bond the Steer roars loudly: the mighty God hath entered in to mortals.
> 4 That oil in triple shape the Gods discovered laid down within the Cow, concealed by Panis.
> Indra produced one shape, Surya another: by their own power they formed the third from Vena.
> 5 From inmost reservoir in countless channels flow down these rivers which the foe beholds not.
> I look upon the streams of oil descending, and lo! the Golden Reed is there among them.
> 6 Like rivers our libations flow together, cleansing themselves in inmost heart and spirit.
> The streams of holy oil pour swiftly downward like the wild beasts that fly before the bowman.
> 7 As rushing down the rapids of a river, flow swifter than the wind the vigorous currents,
> The streams of oil in swelling fluctuation like a red courser bursting through the fences.
> 8.Like women at a gathering fair to look on and gently smiling, they incline to Agni.
> The streams of holy oil attain the fuel, and Jatavedas joyfully receives them.
> 9 As maidens dock themselves with gay adornment to join the bridal feast, I now behold them.
> Where Soma flows and sacrifice is ready, thither the streams of holy oil are running.
> 10 Send to our eulogy a herd of cattle bestow upon us excellent possessions.
> Bear to the Gods the sacrifice we offer the streams of oil flow pure and full of sweetness.
> 11 The universe depends upon thy power and might within the sea, within the heart, within all life.
> May we attain that sweetly-flavoured wave of thine, brought, at its gathering, o'er the surfaceof the floods.
>
> — *Rig Veda - Book  4*