Rig Veda Book 1
Rig Veda, tr. by Ralph T.H. Griffith, (1896)
Translator Ralph T.H. Griffith
THE FIRST BOOK – Page 6
HYMN
CXXI, Indra.
1. WHEN
Will men’s guardians hasting hear with favour the song of Angiras’s pious
childern?
When to the people of the home he cometh he strideth to the sacrifice, the Holy.
childern?
When to the people of the home he cometh he strideth to the sacrifice, the Holy.
2. He
stablished heaven; he poured forth, skilful worker, the wealth of kine, for
strength, that nurtures heroes.
The Mighty One his self-born host regarded, the horse’s mate, the mother of the heifer.
The Mighty One his self-born host regarded, the horse’s mate, the mother of the heifer.
3. Lord
of red dawns, he came victorious, daily to the Angirases’ former invocation.
His bolt and team hath he prepared, and stablished the heaven for quadrupeds and men two-footed.
His bolt and team hath he prepared, and stablished the heaven for quadrupeds and men two-footed.
4. In
joy of this thou didst restore, for worship, the lowing company of hidden
cattle.
When the three-pointed one descends with onslaught he opens wide the doors that cause man trouble.
When the three-pointed one descends with onslaught he opens wide the doors that cause man trouble.
5. Thine
is that milk which thy swift-moving Parents brought down, a strengthening
genial gift for conquest;
When the pure treasure unto thee they offered, the milk shed from the cow who streameth nectar.
When the pure treasure unto thee they offered, the milk shed from the cow who streameth nectar.
6. There
is he born. May the Swift give us rapture, and like the Sun shine forth from
yonder dawning,
Indu, even us who drank, whose toils are offerings, poured from the spoon, with praise, upon the altar.
Indu, even us who drank, whose toils are offerings, poured from the spoon, with praise, upon the altar.
7. When
the wood-pile, made of good logs, is ready, at the Sun’s worship to bind fast
the Bullock,
Then when thou shinest forth through days of action for the Car-borne, the Swift, tile Cattle-seeker.
Then when thou shinest forth through days of action for the Car-borne, the Swift, tile Cattle-seeker.
8. Eight
steeds thou broughtest down from mighty heaven, when fighting for the well that
giveth splendour,
That men might press with stones the gladdening yellow, strengthened with milk, fermenting, to exalt thee.
That men might press with stones the gladdening yellow, strengthened with milk, fermenting, to exalt thee.
9. Thou
hurledst forth from heaven the iron missile, brought by the Skilful, from the
sling of leather,
When thou, O Much-invoked, assisting Kutsa with endless deadly darts didst compass Susna.
When thou, O Much-invoked, assisting Kutsa with endless deadly darts didst compass Susna.
10.
Bolt-armed, ere darkness overtook the sunlight, thou castest at the veiling
cloud thy weapon,
Thou rentest, out of heaven, though firmly knotted, the might of Susna that was thrown around him.
Thou rentest, out of heaven, though firmly knotted, the might of Susna that was thrown around him.
11. The
mighty Heaven and Earth, those bright expanses that have no wheels, joyed,
Indra, at thine exploit.
Vrtra, the boar who lay amid the waters, to sleep thou sentest with thy mighty thunder.
Vrtra, the boar who lay amid the waters, to sleep thou sentest with thy mighty thunder.
12. Mount Indra,
lover of the men thou guardest, the well-yoked horses of the wind, best
bearers.
The bolt which Kavya Usana erst gave thee, strong, gladdening, Vrtra-slaying, hath he fashioned *
The bolt which Kavya Usana erst gave thee, strong, gladdening, Vrtra-slaying, hath he fashioned *
13. The
strong Bay Horses of the Sun thou stayedst: this Etasa drew not the wheel, O
Indra.
Casting them forth beyond the ninety rivers thou dravest down into the pit the godless.
Casting them forth beyond the ninety rivers thou dravest down into the pit the godless.
14.
Indra, preserve thou us from this affliction Thunder-armed, save us from the
misery near us.
Vouchsafe us affluence in chariots, founded on horses, for our food and fame and gladness.
Vouchsafe us affluence in chariots, founded on horses, for our food and fame and gladness.
15.
Never may this thy loving-kindness fail us; mighty in strength, may plenteous
food surround us.
Maghavan, make us share the foeman’s cattle: may we be thy most liberal feast companions.
HYMN CXXII Visvadevas.
Maghavan, make us share the foeman’s cattle: may we be thy most liberal feast companions.
HYMN CXXII Visvadevas.
1. SAY,
bringing sacrifice to bounteous Rudra, This juice for drink to you whose wrath
is fleeting!
With Dyaus the Asura’s Heroes I have lauded the Maruts as with prayer to Earth and Heaven.
With Dyaus the Asura’s Heroes I have lauded the Maruts as with prayer to Earth and Heaven.
2.
Strong to exalt the early invocation are Night and Dawn who show with varied
aspect.
The Barren clothes her in wide-woven raiment, and fair Morn shines with Surya’s golden splendour.
The Barren clothes her in wide-woven raiment, and fair Morn shines with Surya’s golden splendour.
3. Cheer
us the Roamer round, who strikes at morning, the Wind delight us, pourer forth
of waters!
Sharpen our wits, O Parvata and Indra. May all the Gods vouchsafe to us this favour.
Sharpen our wits, O Parvata and Indra. May all the Gods vouchsafe to us this favour.
4. And
Ausija shall call for me that famous Pair who enjoy and drink, who come to
brighten.
Set ye the Offspring of the Floods before you; both Mothers of the Living One who beameth.
Set ye the Offspring of the Floods before you; both Mothers of the Living One who beameth.
5. For
you shall Ausija call him who thunders, as, to win Arjuna’s assent, cried
Ghosa.
I will invoke, that Pusan may be bounteous to you, the rich munificence of Agni.
I will invoke, that Pusan may be bounteous to you, the rich munificence of Agni.
6. Hear,
Mitra-Varuna, these mine invocations, hear them from all men in the hall of
worship.
Giver of famous gifts, kind hearer, Sindhu who gives fair fields, listen with all his waters 1
Giver of famous gifts, kind hearer, Sindhu who gives fair fields, listen with all his waters 1
7.
Praised, Mitra, Varuna! is your gift, a hundred cows to the Prksayamas and the
Pajra.
Presented by car-famous Priyaratha, supplying nourishment, they came directly.
Presented by car-famous Priyaratha, supplying nourishment, they came directly.
8.
Praised is the gift of him the very wealthy: may we enjoy it, men with hero
children:
His who hath many gifts to give the Pajras, a chief who makes me rich in cars and horses.
His who hath many gifts to give the Pajras, a chief who makes me rich in cars and horses.
9. The
folk, O Mitra-Varuna, who hate you, who sinfully hating pour you no libations,
Lay in their hearts, themselves, a wasting sickness, whereas the righteous gaineth all by worship.
Lay in their hearts, themselves, a wasting sickness, whereas the righteous gaineth all by worship.
10. That
man, most puissant, wondrously urged onward, famed among heroes, liberal in
giving,
Moveth a warrior, evermore undaunted in all encounters even with the mighty.
Moveth a warrior, evermore undaunted in all encounters even with the mighty.
11. Come
to the man’s, the sacrificer’s calling: hear, Kings of Immortality, joy-givers!
While ye who speed through clouds decree your bounty largely, for fame, to him the chariot rider.
While ye who speed through clouds decree your bounty largely, for fame, to him the chariot rider.
12.
Vigour will we bestow on that adorer whose tenfold draught we come to taste, so
spake they.
May all in whom rest splendour and great riches obtain refreshment in these sacrifices.
May all in whom rest splendour and great riches obtain refreshment in these sacrifices.
13. We
will rejoice to drink the tenfold present when the twicefive come bearing
sacred viands.
What can he do whose steeds and reins are choicest? These, the all-potent, urge brave men to conquest.
What can he do whose steeds and reins are choicest? These, the all-potent, urge brave men to conquest.
14. The
sea and all the Deities shall give us him with the golden car and neck
bejewelled.
Dawns, hasting to the praises otthe pious, be pleased with us. both offerers and singers.
Dawns, hasting to the praises otthe pious, be pleased with us. both offerers and singers.
15. Four
youthful sons of Masarsara vex me, three, of the king, the conquering Ayavasa.
Now like the Sun, O Varuna and Mitra, your car hath shone, long-shaped and reined with splendour.
HYMN CXXIII. Dawn.
Now like the Sun, O Varuna and Mitra, your car hath shone, long-shaped and reined with splendour.
HYMN CXXIII. Dawn.
1. THE
Daksina’s broad chariot hath been harnessed: this car the Gods Immortal have
ascended.
Fain to bring light to homes of men the noble and active Goddess hath emerged from darkness.
Fain to bring light to homes of men the noble and active Goddess hath emerged from darkness.
2. She
before all the living world hath wakened, the Lofty One who wins and gathers
treasure.
Revived and ever young on high she glances. Dawn hath come first unto our morning worship.
Revived and ever young on high she glances. Dawn hath come first unto our morning worship.
3. If,
Dawn, thou Goddess nobly born, thou dealest fortune this day to all the race of
mortals,
May Savitar the God, Friend of the homestead, declare before the Sun that we are sinless.
May Savitar the God, Friend of the homestead, declare before the Sun that we are sinless.
4.
Showing her wonted form each day that passeth, spreading the light she visiteth
each dwelling.
Eager for conquest, with bright sheen she cometh. Her portion is the best of goodly treasures.
Eager for conquest, with bright sheen she cometh. Her portion is the best of goodly treasures.
5.
Sister of Varuna, sister of Bhaga, first among all sing forth, O joyous
Morning.
Weak be the strength of him who worketh evil – may we subdue him with our car the guerdon.
Weak be the strength of him who worketh evil – may we subdue him with our car the guerdon.
6. Let
our glad hymns and holy thoughts rise upward, for the flames brightly burning
have ascended.
The far-refulgent Mornings make apparent the lovely treasures which the darkness covered.
The far-refulgent Mornings make apparent the lovely treasures which the darkness covered.
7. The
one departeth and the other cometh: unlike in hue day’s, halves march on
successive.
One hides the gloom of the surrounding Parents. Dawn on her shining chariot is resplendent.
One hides the gloom of the surrounding Parents. Dawn on her shining chariot is resplendent.
8. The
same in form to-day, the same tomorrow, they still keep Varuna’s eternal
statute.
Blameless, in turn they traverse thirty regions, and dart across the spirit in a moment.
Blameless, in turn they traverse thirty regions, and dart across the spirit in a moment.
9. She
who hath knowledge Of the first day’s nature is born refulgent white from out
the darkness.
The Maiden breaketh not the law of Order, day by day coming to the place appointed.
The Maiden breaketh not the law of Order, day by day coming to the place appointed.
10. In
pride of beauty like a maid thou goest, O Goddess, to the God who longs to win
thee,
And smiling youthful, as thou shinest brightly, before him thou discoverest thy bosom.
And smiling youthful, as thou shinest brightly, before him thou discoverest thy bosom.
11. Fair
as a bride embellished by her mother thou showest forth thy form that all may
see it.
Blessed art thou O Dawn. Shine yet more widely. No other Dawns have reached what thou attainest.
Blessed art thou O Dawn. Shine yet more widely. No other Dawns have reached what thou attainest.
12. Rich
in kine, horses, and all goodly treasures, in constant operation with the
sunbeams,
The Dawns depart and come again again assuming their wonted forms that promise happy fortune.
The Dawns depart and come again again assuming their wonted forms that promise happy fortune.
13.
Obedient to the rein of Law Eternal give us each thought that more and more
shall bless us.
Shine thou on us to-day, Dawn, swift to listen. With us be riches and with chiefs who worship.
HYMN CXXIV. Dawn.
Shine thou on us to-day, Dawn, swift to listen. With us be riches and with chiefs who worship.
HYMN CXXIV. Dawn.
1. THE
Dawn refulgent when the fire is kindled, and the Sun rising, far diffuse their
brightness.
Savitar, God, hath sentus forth to labour, each quadruped, each biped, to be active.
Savitar, God, hath sentus forth to labour, each quadruped, each biped, to be active.
2. Not
interrupting heavenly ordinances, although she minisheth human generations.
The last of endless morns that have departed, the first of those that come, Dawn brightly shineth.
The last of endless morns that have departed, the first of those that come, Dawn brightly shineth.
3. There
in the eastern region she, Heaven’s Daughter, arrayed in garments all of light,
appeareth.
Truly she fo1loweth the path of Order, nor faileth, knowing well, the heavenly quarters.
Truly she fo1loweth the path of Order, nor faileth, knowing well, the heavenly quarters.
4. Near
is she seen, as ’twere the Bright One’s bosom: she showeth sweet things like a
new song-singer.
She cometh like a fly awaking sleepers, of all. returning dames most true and constant.
She cometh like a fly awaking sleepers, of all. returning dames most true and constant.
5. There
in the east half of the watery region the Mother of the Cows hath shown her
ensign.
Wider and wider still she spreadeth onward, and filleth full the laps of both heir Parents.
Wider and wider still she spreadeth onward, and filleth full the laps of both heir Parents.
6. She,
verily, exceeding vast to look on debarreth from her light nor kin nor
stranger.
Proud of her spotless form she, brightly shiming, turneth not from the high nor froom the humble.
Proud of her spotless form she, brightly shiming, turneth not from the high nor froom the humble.
7. She
seeketh men, as she who hath no brother, mounting her car, as ’twere to gather
riches.
Dawn, like a loving matron for her husband, smiling and well attired, unmasks her beauty.
Dawn, like a loving matron for her husband, smiling and well attired, unmasks her beauty.
8. The
Sister quitteth, for the elder Sister, her place, and having looked on her
departeth.
She decks her beauty, shining forth with sunbeams, like women trooping to the festal meeting.
She decks her beauty, shining forth with sunbeams, like women trooping to the festal meeting.
9. To
all these Sisters who ere now have vanished a later one each day in course
succeedeth.
So, like the past, with days of happy fortune, may the new Dawns shine forth on us with riches.
So, like the past, with days of happy fortune, may the new Dawns shine forth on us with riches.
10.
Rouse up, O Wealthy One, the liberal givers; let niggard traffickers sleep on
unwakened:
Shine richly, Wealthy One, on those who worship, richly, glad.
Dawn while wasting, on the singer.
Shine richly, Wealthy One, on those who worship, richly, glad.
Dawn while wasting, on the singer.
11. This
young Maid from the east hath shone upon us; she harnesseth her team of bright
red oxen.
She will beam forth, the light will hasten hither, and Agni will be present in each dwelling.
She will beam forth, the light will hasten hither, and Agni will be present in each dwelling.
12. As
the birds fly forth from their resting places, so men with store of food rise
at thy dawning.
Yea, to the liberal mortal who remaineth at home, O Goddess Dawn, much good thou bringest.
Yea, to the liberal mortal who remaineth at home, O Goddess Dawn, much good thou bringest.
13.
Praised through my prayer be ye who should be lauded. Ye have increased our wealth,
ye Dawns who love us.
Goddesses, may we win by your good favour wealth to be told by hundreds and by thousands.
HYMN CXXV. Svanaya.
Goddesses, may we win by your good favour wealth to be told by hundreds and by thousands.
HYMN CXXV. Svanaya.
1.
COMING at early morn he gives his treasure; the prudent one receives and
entertains him.
Thereby increasing still his life and offspring, he comes with brave sons to abundant riches.
Thereby increasing still his life and offspring, he comes with brave sons to abundant riches.
2. Rich
shall he be in gold and kine and horses. Indra bestows on him great vital
power,
Who stays thee, as thou comest, with his treasure, like game caught in the net, O early comer.
Who stays thee, as thou comest, with his treasure, like game caught in the net, O early comer.
3.
Longing, I came this morning to the pious, the son of sacrifice, with car
wealth. laden.
Give him to drink juice of the stalk that gladdens; prosper with pleasant hymns the Lord of Heroes.
Give him to drink juice of the stalk that gladdens; prosper with pleasant hymns the Lord of Heroes.
4.
Health-bringing streams, as milch-cows, flow to profit him who hath worshipped,
him who now will worship.
To him who freely gives and fills on all sides full streams of fatness flow and make him famous.
To him who freely gives and fills on all sides full streams of fatness flow and make him famous.
5. On
the high ridge of heaven he stands exalted, yea, to the Gods he goes, the
liberal giver.
The streams, the waters flow for him with fatness: to him this guerdon ever yields abundance.
The streams, the waters flow for him with fatness: to him this guerdon ever yields abundance.
6. For
those who give rich meeds are all these splendours, for those who give rich
meeds suns shine in heaven.
The givers of rich meeds are made immortal; the givers of rich fees prolong their lifetime.
The givers of rich meeds are made immortal; the givers of rich fees prolong their lifetime.
7. Let
not the liberal sink to sin and sorrow, never decay the pious -chiefs who
worship!
Let every man besides be their protection, and let affliction fall upon the niggard.
Let every man besides be their protection, and let affliction fall upon the niggard.
HYMN
CXXVI. Bhavayavya.
1. WITH
wisdom I present these lively praises of Bhavya dweller on the bank of Sindhu;
For he, unconquered King, desiring glory, hath furnished me a thousand sacrifices.
For he, unconquered King, desiring glory, hath furnished me a thousand sacrifices.
2. A
hundred necklets from the King, beseeching, a hundred gift-steeds I at once
accepted;
Of the lord’s cows a thousand, I Kaksivan. His deathless glory hath he spread to heaven.
Of the lord’s cows a thousand, I Kaksivan. His deathless glory hath he spread to heaven.
3.
Horses of dusky colour stood beside me, ten chariots, Svanaya’s gift, with
mares to draw them.
Kine numbering sixty thousand followed after. Kaksivan gained them when the days were closing.
Kine numbering sixty thousand followed after. Kaksivan gained them when the days were closing.
4. Forty
bay horses of the ten cars’ master before a thousand lead the long procession.
Reeling in joy Kaksivan’s sons and Pajra’s have grounded the coursers decked with pearly trappings.
Reeling in joy Kaksivan’s sons and Pajra’s have grounded the coursers decked with pearly trappings.
5. An
earlier gift for you have I accepted eight cows, good milkers, and tree
harnessed horses,
Pajras, who with your wains with your great kinsman, like troops of subjects, have been fain for glory.
HYMN CXXVII Agni.
Pajras, who with your wains with your great kinsman, like troops of subjects, have been fain for glory.
HYMN CXXVII Agni.
1. AGNI
I hold as herald, the munificent, the gracious, Son of Strength, who knoweth
all that live, as holy Singer, knowing all,
Lord of fair rites, a God with form erected turning to the Gods,
He, when the flame hath sprung forth from the holy oil, the offered fatness, longeth for it with his glow.
Lord of fair rites, a God with form erected turning to the Gods,
He, when the flame hath sprung forth from the holy oil, the offered fatness, longeth for it with his glow.
2. We,
sacrificing, call on thee best worshipper, the eldest of Angirases, Singer,
with hymns, thee, brilliant One! with singers’ hymns;
Thee, wandering round as ‘t were the sky, who art the invoking Priest of men,
Whom, Bull with hair of flame the people must observe, the people that he speed them on.
Thee, wandering round as ‘t were the sky, who art the invoking Priest of men,
Whom, Bull with hair of flame the people must observe, the people that he speed them on.
3. He
with his shining glory blazing far and wide, he verily it is who slayeth demon
foes, slayeth the demons like an axe:
At whose close touch things solid shake, and what is stable yields like trees.
Subduing all, he keeps his ground and flinches not, from the skilled archer flinches not.
At whose close touch things solid shake, and what is stable yields like trees.
Subduing all, he keeps his ground and flinches not, from the skilled archer flinches not.
4. To
him, as one who knows, even things solid yield: unrough fire-sticks heated hot
he gives his gifts to aid. Men offer Agni gifts for aid.
He deeply piercing many a thing hews it like wood with fervent glow.
Even hard and solid food he crunches with his might, yea, hard and solid food with might.
He deeply piercing many a thing hews it like wood with fervent glow.
Even hard and solid food he crunches with his might, yea, hard and solid food with might.
5. Here
near we place the sacrificial food for him who shines forth fairer in the night
than in the day, with life then stronger than by day.
His life gives sure and firm defence as that one giveth to a son.
The during fires enjoy things given and things not given, the during fires enjoy as food.
His life gives sure and firm defence as that one giveth to a son.
The during fires enjoy things given and things not given, the during fires enjoy as food.
6. He,
roaring very loudly like the Maruts’ host, in fertile cultivated fields
adorable, in desert spots adorable,
Accepts and eats our offered gifts, ensign of sacrifice by desert;
So let all, joying, love his path when he is glad, as men pursue a path for bliss.
Accepts and eats our offered gifts, ensign of sacrifice by desert;
So let all, joying, love his path when he is glad, as men pursue a path for bliss.
7. Even
as they who sarig forth hymns, addressed to heaven, the Blirgus with their
prayer and praise invited him, the Bhrgus rubbing, offering gifts.
For radiant Agni, Lord of all these treasures, is exceeding strong.
May he, the wise, accept the grateful coverings, the wise accept the coverings.
For radiant Agni, Lord of all these treasures, is exceeding strong.
May he, the wise, accept the grateful coverings, the wise accept the coverings.
8. Thee
we invoke, the Lord of all our settled homes, common to all, the household’s
guardian, to enjoy, bearer of true hymns, to enjoy.
Thee we invoke, the guest of men, by whose mouth, even as a sire’s,
All these Immortals come to gain their food of life, oblations come to Gods as food.
Thee we invoke, the guest of men, by whose mouth, even as a sire’s,
All these Immortals come to gain their food of life, oblations come to Gods as food.
9. Thou,
Agni, most victorious with thy conquering strength, most Mighty One, art born
for service of the Gods, like wealth for service of the Gods.
Most mighty is thine ecstasy, most splendid is thy mental power.
Therefore men wait upon thee, undecaying One, like vassals, undecaying One.
Most mighty is thine ecstasy, most splendid is thy mental power.
Therefore men wait upon thee, undecaying One, like vassals, undecaying One.
10. To
him the mighty, conquering with victorious strength, to Agni walking with the
dawn, who sendeth kine, be sung your laud, to Agni sung;
As he who with oblation comes calls him aloud in every place.
Before the brands of fire he shouteth singerlike, the herald, kindler of the brands.
As he who with oblation comes calls him aloud in every place.
Before the brands of fire he shouteth singerlike, the herald, kindler of the brands.
11.
Agni, beheld by us in nearest neighbourhood, accordant with the Gods, bring us,
with gracious love, great riches with thy gracious love.
Give us O Mightiest, what is great, to see and to enjoy the earth.
As one of awful power, stir up heroic might for those who praise thee, Bounteous Lord!
HYMN CXXVIII. Agni.
Give us O Mightiest, what is great, to see and to enjoy the earth.
As one of awful power, stir up heroic might for those who praise thee, Bounteous Lord!
HYMN CXXVIII. Agni.
1. By
Manu’s law was born this Agni, Priest most skilled, born for the holy work of
those who yearn therefore, yea, born for his own holy work.
All ear to him who seeks his love and wealth to him who strives for fame,
Priest ne’er deceived, he sits in Ila’s holy place, girt round in Ila’s holy place.
All ear to him who seeks his love and wealth to him who strives for fame,
Priest ne’er deceived, he sits in Ila’s holy place, girt round in Ila’s holy place.
2. We
call that perfecter of worship by the path or sacrifice; with reverence rich in
offerings, with worship rich in offerings.
Through presentation of our food he grows not old in this his from;
The God whom Matarisvan brought from far away, for Manu brought from far away.
Through presentation of our food he grows not old in this his from;
The God whom Matarisvan brought from far away, for Manu brought from far away.
3. In
ordered course forthwith he traverses the earth, swift-swallowing, bellowing
Steer, bearing the genial seed, bearing the seed and bellowing.
Observant with a hundred eyes the God is conqueror in the wood:
Agni, who hath his seat in broad plains here below, and in the high lands far away.
Observant with a hundred eyes the God is conqueror in the wood:
Agni, who hath his seat in broad plains here below, and in the high lands far away.
4. That
Agni, wise High-Priest, in every house takes thought for sacrifice and holy service,
yea, takes thought, with mental power, for sacrifice.
Disposer, he with mental power shows all things unto him who strives;
Whence he was born a guest enriched with holy oil, born as Ordainer and as Priest.
Disposer, he with mental power shows all things unto him who strives;
Whence he was born a guest enriched with holy oil, born as Ordainer and as Priest.
5. When
through his power and in his strong prevailing flames the Maruts’ gladdening
boons mingle with Agni’s roar, boons gladdening for the active One,
Then he accelerates the gift, and by the greatness of his wealth,
Shall rescue us from overwhelming misery, from curse and overwhelming woe.
Then he accelerates the gift, and by the greatness of his wealth,
Shall rescue us from overwhelming misery, from curse and overwhelming woe.
6. Vast,
universal, good he was made messenger; the speeder with his right hand hath not
loosed his hold, through love of fame not loosed his hold.
He bears oblations to the Gods for whosoever supplicates.
Agni bestows a blessing on each pious man, and opens wide the doors for him.
He bears oblations to the Gods for whosoever supplicates.
Agni bestows a blessing on each pious man, and opens wide the doors for him.
7. That
Agni hath been set most kind in camp of men, in sacrifice like a Lord
victorious, like a dear Lord in sacred rites.
His are the oblations of mankind when offered up at Ili’s place.
He shall preserve us from Varuna’s chastisement, yea, from the great God’s chastisement.
His are the oblations of mankind when offered up at Ili’s place.
He shall preserve us from Varuna’s chastisement, yea, from the great God’s chastisement.
8. Agni
the Priest they supplicate to grant them wealth: him, dear, most thoughtful,
have they made their messenger, him, offering-bearer have they made,
Beloved of all, who knoweth all, the Priest, the Holy one, the Sage-
Him, Friend, for help, the Gods when they are fain for wealth, him, Friend, with hymns, when fain for wealth.
YMN CXXIX Indra.
Beloved of all, who knoweth all, the Priest, the Holy one, the Sage-
Him, Friend, for help, the Gods when they are fain for wealth, him, Friend, with hymns, when fain for wealth.
YMN CXXIX Indra.
1. THE
car which Indra, thou, for service of the Gods though it be far away, O swift
One, bringest near, which, Blameless One, thou bringest near,
Place swiftly nigh us for our help: be it thy will that it be strong.
Blameless and active, hear this speech of orderers, this speech of us like orderers.
Place swiftly nigh us for our help: be it thy will that it be strong.
Blameless and active, hear this speech of orderers, this speech of us like orderers.
2. Hear,
Indra, thou whom men in every fight must call to show thy strength, for cry of
battle with the men, with men of war for victory.
He who with heroes wins the light, who with the singers gains the prize,
Him the rich seek to gain even as a swift strong steed, even as a courser fleet and strong.
He who with heroes wins the light, who with the singers gains the prize,
Him the rich seek to gain even as a swift strong steed, even as a courser fleet and strong.
3. Thou,
Mighty, pourest forth the hide that holds the rain, thou keepest far away,
Hero, the wicked man, thou shuttest out the wicked man.
Indra, to thee I sing, to Dyaus, to Rudra glorious in himself,
To Mitra, Varuna I sing a far-famed hymn to the kind God a far-famed hymn.
Indra, to thee I sing, to Dyaus, to Rudra glorious in himself,
To Mitra, Varuna I sing a far-famed hymn to the kind God a far-famed hymn.
4. We.
wish our Indra here that he may further you, the Friend, beloved of all, the
very strong ally, in wars the very strong ally
In all encounters strengthen thou our prayer to be a help to us.
No enemy-whom thou smitest downsubdueth thee, no enemy, whom thou smitest down.
In all encounters strengthen thou our prayer to be a help to us.
No enemy-whom thou smitest downsubdueth thee, no enemy, whom thou smitest down.
5. Bow
down the overweening pride of every foe with succour like to kindling-wood in
fiercest flame, with mighty succour, Mighty One.
Guide us, thou Hero, as of old, so art thou counted blameless still.
Thou drivest, as a Priest, all sins of man away, as Priest, in person, seeking us.
Guide us, thou Hero, as of old, so art thou counted blameless still.
Thou drivest, as a Priest, all sins of man away, as Priest, in person, seeking us.
6. This
may I utter to the present Soma-drop, which, meet to be invoked, with power,
awakes the prayer, awakes the demon-slaying prayer.
May he himself with darts of death drive far from us the scorner’s hate.
Far let him flee away who speaketh wickedness and vanish like a mote of dust.
May he himself with darts of death drive far from us the scorner’s hate.
Far let him flee away who speaketh wickedness and vanish like a mote of dust.
7. By
thoughtful invocation this may we obtain, obtain great wealth, O Wealthy One,
with Hero sons, wealth that is sweet with hero sons.
Him who is wroth we pacify with sacred food and eulogies,
Indra the Holy with our calls inspired and true, the Holy One with calls inspired.
Him who is wroth we pacify with sacred food and eulogies,
Indra the Holy with our calls inspired and true, the Holy One with calls inspired.
8. On,
for your good and ours, come Indra with the aid of his own lordliness to drive
the wicked hence, to rend the evilhearted ones!
The weapon which devouring fiends cast at us shall destroy themselves.
Struck down, it shall not reach the mark; hurled forth, the fire-brand shall not strike.
The weapon which devouring fiends cast at us shall destroy themselves.
Struck down, it shall not reach the mark; hurled forth, the fire-brand shall not strike.
9. With
riches in abundance, Indra, come to us, come by an unobstructed path, come by a
path from demons free.
Be with us when we stray afar, be with us when our home is nigh.
Protect us with thy help both near and far away: protect us ever with thy help.
Be with us when we stray afar, be with us when our home is nigh.
Protect us with thy help both near and far away: protect us ever with thy help.
10. Thou
art our own, O Indra, with victorious wealth: let might accompany thee, the
Strong, to give us aid, like Mitra, to give mighty aid.
O strongest saviour, helper thou, Immortal! of each warrior’s car.
Hurt thou another and not us, O Thunderarmed, one who would hurt, O Thunder-armed!
O strongest saviour, helper thou, Immortal! of each warrior’s car.
Hurt thou another and not us, O Thunderarmed, one who would hurt, O Thunder-armed!
11. Save
us from injury, thou who art well extolled: ever the warder-off art thou of
wicked ones, even as a God, of wicked ones;
Thou slayer of the evil fiend, saviour of singer such as I.
Good Lord, the Father made thee slayer of the fiends, made thee, good Lord, to slay the fiends.
Thou slayer of the evil fiend, saviour of singer such as I.
Good Lord, the Father made thee slayer of the fiends, made thee, good Lord, to slay the fiends.
HYMN
CXXX. Indra.
1. Come
to us, Indra, from afar, conducting us even as a lord of heroes to the
gatherings, home, like a King, his heroes’ lord.
We come with gifts of pleasant food, with juice poured forth, invoking thee,
As sons invite a sire, that thou mayst get thee strength thee, bounteousest, to get thee strength.
We come with gifts of pleasant food, with juice poured forth, invoking thee,
As sons invite a sire, that thou mayst get thee strength thee, bounteousest, to get thee strength.
2. O
Indra, drink the Soma juice pressed out with stones. poured from the reservoir,
as an ox drinks the spring, a very thirsty bull the spring.
For the sweet draught that gladdens thee, for mightiest freshening of thy strength.
Let thy Bay Horses bring thee hither as the Sun, as every day they bring the Sun.
For the sweet draught that gladdens thee, for mightiest freshening of thy strength.
Let thy Bay Horses bring thee hither as the Sun, as every day they bring the Sun.
3. He
found the treasure brought from heaven that lay concealed, close-hidden, like
the nestling of a bird, in rock, enclosed in never-enffing rock.
Best Angiras, bolt-armed, he strove to win, as ’twere, the stall of kine;
So Indra hath disclosed the food concealed, disclosed the doors, the food that lay concealed.
Best Angiras, bolt-armed, he strove to win, as ’twere, the stall of kine;
So Indra hath disclosed the food concealed, disclosed the doors, the food that lay concealed.
4.
Grasping his thunderbolt with both hands, Indra made its edge most keen, for
hurling, like a carving-knife for Ahi’s slaughter made it keen.
Endued with majesty and strength, O Indra, and with lordly might,
Thou crashest down the trees, as when a craftsman fells, crashest them down as with an axe.
Endued with majesty and strength, O Indra, and with lordly might,
Thou crashest down the trees, as when a craftsman fells, crashest them down as with an axe.
5. Thou,
Indra, without effort hast let loose the floods to run their free course down,
like chariots, to the sea, like chariots showing forth their strength.
They, reaching hence away, have joined their strength for one eternal end,
Even as the cows who poured forth every thing for man, Yea, poured forth all thing- for mankind.
like chariots, to the sea, like chariots showing forth their strength.
They, reaching hence away, have joined their strength for one eternal end,
Even as the cows who poured forth every thing for man, Yea, poured forth all thing- for mankind.
6. Eager
for riches, men have formed for thee this song, like as a skilful craftsman
fashioneth a car, so have they wrought thee to their bliss;
Adorning thee, O Singer, like a generous steed for deeds of might,
Yea, like a steed to show his strength and win the prize, that he may bear each prize away.
Adorning thee, O Singer, like a generous steed for deeds of might,
Yea, like a steed to show his strength and win the prize, that he may bear each prize away.
7. For
Puru thou hast shattered, Indra ninety forts, for Divodasa thy boon servant
with thy bolt, O Dancer, for thy worshipper.
For Atithigva he, the Strong, brought Sambara. from the mountain down,
Distributing the mighty treasures with his strength, parting all treasures with his strength.
For Atithigva he, the Strong, brought Sambara. from the mountain down,
Distributing the mighty treasures with his strength, parting all treasures with his strength.
8. Indra
in battles help his Aryan worshipper, he who hath hundred helps at hand in
every fray, in frays that win the light of heaven.
Plaguing the lawless he gave up to Manu’s seed the dusky skin;
Blazing, ’twere, he burns each covetous man away, he burns, the tyrannous away.
Plaguing the lawless he gave up to Manu’s seed the dusky skin;
Blazing, ’twere, he burns each covetous man away, he burns, the tyrannous away.
9. Waxed
strong in might at dawn he tore the Sun’s wheel off. Bright red, he steals away
their speech, the Lord of Power, their speech he steals away from them,
As thou with eager speed, O Sage, hast come from far away to hel
As winning for thine own all happiness of men, winning all happiness each day.
As thou with eager speed, O Sage, hast come from far away to hel
As winning for thine own all happiness of men, winning all happiness each day.
10.
Lauded with our new hymns, O vigorous in deed, save us with strengthening help,
thou Shatterer of the Forts!
Thou, Indra, praised by Divodasa’s clansmen, as heaven grows great with days, shalt wax in glory.
HYMN CXXXI. Indra.
Thou, Indra, praised by Divodasa’s clansmen, as heaven grows great with days, shalt wax in glory.
HYMN CXXXI. Indra.
1. To
Indra Dyaus the Asura hath bowed him down, to Indra mighty Earth with
wide-extending tracts, to win the light, with wide-spread tracts.
All Gods of one accord have set Indra in front preeminent.
For Indra all libations must be set apart, all man’s libations set apart.
All Gods of one accord have set Indra in front preeminent.
For Indra all libations must be set apart, all man’s libations set apart.
2. In
all libations men with hero spirit urge the Universal One, each seeking several
light, each fain to win the light apart.
Thee, furthering like a ship, will we set to the chariot-pole of strength,
As men who win with sacrifices Indra’s thought, men who win Indra with their lauds.
Thee, furthering like a ship, will we set to the chariot-pole of strength,
As men who win with sacrifices Indra’s thought, men who win Indra with their lauds.
3.
Couples desirous of thine aid are storming thee, pouring their presents forth
to win a stall of kine, pouring gifts, Indra, seeking thee.
When two men seeking spoil or heaven thou bringest face to face in war,
Thou showest, Indra, -then the bolt thy constant friend, the Bull that ever waits on thee.
When two men seeking spoil or heaven thou bringest face to face in war,
Thou showest, Indra, -then the bolt thy constant friend, the Bull that ever waits on thee.
4. This
thine heroic power men of old time have known, wherewith thou breakest down,
Indra, autumnal forts, breakest them down with conquering might.
Thou hast chastised, O Indra, Lord of Strength, the man who worships not,
And made thine own this great earth and these water-floods; with joyous heart these waterfloods.
Thou hast chastised, O Indra, Lord of Strength, the man who worships not,
And made thine own this great earth and these water-floods; with joyous heart these waterfloods.
5. And
they have bruited far this hero-might when thou, O Strong One, in thy joy
helpest thy suppliants, who sought to win thee for their Friend.
Their battle-cry thou madest sound victorious in the shocks of war.
One stream after another have they gained from thee, eager for glory have they gained.
Their battle-cry thou madest sound victorious in the shocks of war.
One stream after another have they gained from thee, eager for glory have they gained.
6. Also
this morn may he be well inclined to us, mark at our call our offerings and our
song of praise, our call that we may win the light.
As thou, O Indra Thunder-armed, wilt, as the Strong One, slay the foe,
Listen thou to the prayer of me a later sage, hear thou a later sage’s prayer.
As thou, O Indra Thunder-armed, wilt, as the Strong One, slay the foe,
Listen thou to the prayer of me a later sage, hear thou a later sage’s prayer.
7. O
Indra, waxen strong and well-inclined to us, thou very mighty, slay the man
that is our foe, slay the man, Hero! with thy bolt.
Slay thou the man who injures us: hear thou, as readiest, to hear.
Far be malignity, like mischief on the march, afar be all malignity.
HYMN CXXXII. Indra.
Slay thou the man who injures us: hear thou, as readiest, to hear.
Far be malignity, like mischief on the march, afar be all malignity.
HYMN CXXXII. Indra.
1.
HELPED, Indra Maghavan, by thee in war of old, may we subdue in fight the men
who strive with us, conquer the men who war with us.
This day that now is close at hand bless him who pours the Soma juice.
In this our sacrifice may we divide the spoil, showing our strength, the spoil of war.
This day that now is close at hand bless him who pours the Soma juice.
In this our sacrifice may we divide the spoil, showing our strength, the spoil of war.
2. In
war which wins the light, at the freegiver’s call, at due oblation of the
early-rising one, oblation of the active one,
Indra slew, even as we know-whom each bowed head must reverence.
May all thy bounteous gifts be gathered up for us, yea, the good gifts of thee the Good.
Indra slew, even as we know-whom each bowed head must reverence.
May all thy bounteous gifts be gathered up for us, yea, the good gifts of thee the Good.
3. This
food glows for thee as of old at sacrifice, wherein they made thee chooser of
the place , for thou choosest the place of sacrifice.
Speak thou and make it known to us they see within with beams of light.
Indra, indeed, is found a seeker after spoil, spoil-seeker for his own allies.
Speak thou and make it known to us they see within with beams of light.
Indra, indeed, is found a seeker after spoil, spoil-seeker for his own allies.
4. So
now must thy great deed be lauded as of old, when for the Angirases thou
openedst the stall, openedst, giving aid, the stall.
In the same manner for us here fight thou and be victorious:
To him who pours the juice give up the lawless man, the lawless who is wroth with us.
In the same manner for us here fight thou and be victorious:
To him who pours the juice give up the lawless man, the lawless who is wroth with us.
5. When
with wise plan the Hero leads the people forth, they conquer in the ordered
battle, seeking fame, press, eager, onward seeking fame.
To him in time of need they sing for life with offspring and with strength.
Their hymns with Indra find a welcome place of rest: the hynins go forward to the Gods.
To him in time of need they sing for life with offspring and with strength.
Their hymns with Indra find a welcome place of rest: the hynins go forward to the Gods.
6. Indra
and Parvata, our champions in the fight, di ive ye away each man who fain would
war with us, drive him far from us with the bolt.
Welcome to him concealed afar shall he the lair that he hath found.
So may the Render rend our foes on every side, rend them, O Hero, everywhere.
HYMN CXXXIII. Indra.
Welcome to him concealed afar shall he the lair that he hath found.
So may the Render rend our foes on every side, rend them, O Hero, everywhere.
HYMN CXXXIII. Indra.
1. WITH
sacrifice I purge both earth and heaven: I burn up great she-fiends who serve
not Indra,
Where throttled by thy hand the foes were slaughtered, and in the pit of death lay pierced and mangled.
Where throttled by thy hand the foes were slaughtered, and in the pit of death lay pierced and mangled.
2. O
thou who castest forth the stones crushing the sorceresses’ heads,
Break them with thy wide-spreading foot, with thy wide-spreading mighty foot.
Break them with thy wide-spreading foot, with thy wide-spreading mighty foot.
3. Do
thou, O Maghavan, beat off these sorceresses’ daring strength.
Cast them within the narrow pit. within the deep and narrow pit.
Cast them within the narrow pit. within the deep and narrow pit.
4. Of
whom thou hast ere now destroyed thrice-fifty with thy fierce attacks.
That deed they count a glorious deed, though small to thee, a glorious deed.
That deed they count a glorious deed, though small to thee, a glorious deed.
5. O
Indra, crush and bray to bits the fearful fiery-weaponed fiend:
Strike every demon to the ground.
Strike every demon to the ground.
6. Tear
down the mighty ones. O Indra, hear thou us. For heaven hath glowed like earth
in fear, O nunder-armed, as dreading fierce heat, Thunder-armed!
Most Mighty mid the Mighty Ones thou speedest with strong bolts of death,
Not slaying men, unconquered Hero with the brave, O Hero, with the thrice-seven brave.
Most Mighty mid the Mighty Ones thou speedest with strong bolts of death,
Not slaying men, unconquered Hero with the brave, O Hero, with the thrice-seven brave.
7. The
pourer of libations gains the home of wealth, pouring his gift conciliates
hostilities, yea, the hostilities of Gods.
Pouring, he strives, unchecked and strong, to win him riches thousandfold.
Indra gives lasting wealth to him who pours forth gifts, yea, wealth he gives that long shall last.
HYMN CXXXIV. Vayu.
Pouring, he strives, unchecked and strong, to win him riches thousandfold.
Indra gives lasting wealth to him who pours forth gifts, yea, wealth he gives that long shall last.
HYMN CXXXIV. Vayu.
1. Vayu,
let fleet-foot coursers bring thee speedily to this our feast, to drink first
of the juice we pour, to the first draught of Soma juice.
May our glad hymn, discerning well, uplifted, gratify thy mind.
Come with thy team-drawn car, O Vayu, to the gift, come to the sacrificer’s gift.
May our glad hymn, discerning well, uplifted, gratify thy mind.
Come with thy team-drawn car, O Vayu, to the gift, come to the sacrificer’s gift.
2. May
the joy-giving drops, O Vayu gladden thee, effectual, well prepared, directed
to the heavens, strong, blent with milk and seeking heaven;
That aids, effectual to fulfil, may wait upon our skilful power.
Associate teams come hitherward to grant our prayers . they shall address the hymns we sing.
That aids, effectual to fulfil, may wait upon our skilful power.
Associate teams come hitherward to grant our prayers . they shall address the hymns we sing.
3. Two
red steeds Vayu yokes, Vayu two purple steeds, swift-footed, to the chariot, to
the pole to draw, most able, at the pole, to draw.
Wake up intelligence, as when a lover wakes his sleeping love.
Illumine heaven and earth, make thou the Dawns to shine, for glory make the Dawns to shine.
Wake up intelligence, as when a lover wakes his sleeping love.
Illumine heaven and earth, make thou the Dawns to shine, for glory make the Dawns to shine.
4. For
thee the radiant Dawns in the fardistant sky broaden their lovely gannents
forth in wondrous beams, bright-coloured in their new-born beams.
For thee the nectar-yielding Cow pours all rich treasures forth as milk.
The Marut host hast thou engendered from the womb, the Maruts from the womb of heaven.
For thee the nectar-yielding Cow pours all rich treasures forth as milk.
The Marut host hast thou engendered from the womb, the Maruts from the womb of heaven.
5. For
thee the pure bright quickly-flowing Soma-drops, strong in their heightening
power, hasten to mixthemselves, hasten to the water to be mixed.
To thee the weary coward prays for luck that he may speed away.
Thou by thy law protectest us from every world, yea, from the world of highest Gods.
To thee the weary coward prays for luck that he may speed away.
Thou by thy law protectest us from every world, yea, from the world of highest Gods.
6. Thou,
Vayu, who hast none before thee, first of all hast right to drink these
offerings of Soma juice, hast right to drink the juice out-poured,
Yea, poured by all invoking tribes who free themselves from taint of sin,
For thee all cows are milked to yield the Soma-milk, to yield the butter and the milk.
Yea, poured by all invoking tribes who free themselves from taint of sin,
For thee all cows are milked to yield the Soma-milk, to yield the butter and the milk.
HYMN
CXXXV. Vayu, Indra-Vayu.
1. STREWN
is the sacred grass; come Vayu, to our feast, with team of thousands, come,
Lord of the harnessed team, with hundreds, Lord of harnessed steeds!
The drops divine are lifted up for thee, the God, to drink them first.
The juices rich in sweets have raised thern for thy joy, have raised themselves to give thee strength.
The drops divine are lifted up for thee, the God, to drink them first.
The juices rich in sweets have raised thern for thy joy, have raised themselves to give thee strength.
2.
Purified by the stones the Soma flows for thee, clothed with its lovely
splendours, to the reservoir, flows clad in its refulgent light.
For thee the Soma is poured forth, thy portioned share mid. Gods and men.
Drive thou thy horses, Vayu, come to us with love, come well-inclined and loving us.
For thee the Soma is poured forth, thy portioned share mid. Gods and men.
Drive thou thy horses, Vayu, come to us with love, come well-inclined and loving us.
3. Come
thou with hundreds, come with thousands in thy team to this our solemn rite, to
taste the sacred food, Vayu, to taste the offerings.
This is thy seasonable share, that comes co-radiant with the Sun.
Brought by attendant priests pure juice is offered up, Vayu, pure juice is offered up.
This is thy seasonable share, that comes co-radiant with the Sun.
Brought by attendant priests pure juice is offered up, Vayu, pure juice is offered up.
4. The
chariot with its team of horses bring you both, to guard us and to taste the
well-appointed food, Vayu, to taste the offerings!
Drink of the pleasant -flavoured juice the first draught is assigned to you.
O Vayu, with your splendid bounty come ye both, Indra, with bounty come ye both.
Drink of the pleasant -flavoured juice the first draught is assigned to you.
O Vayu, with your splendid bounty come ye both, Indra, with bounty come ye both.
5. May
our songs bring you hither to our solemn rites: these drops of mighty vigour
have they beauti fied, like a swift veed of mighty strength.
Drink of them well-inclined to us, come hitherward to be our help.
Drink, Indra-Vayu, of these Juices pressed with stones, Strength-givers! till they gladden you.
Drink of them well-inclined to us, come hitherward to be our help.
Drink, Indra-Vayu, of these Juices pressed with stones, Strength-givers! till they gladden you.
6. These
Soma juices pressed for you in waters here, borne by attendant priests, are
oficredup to you: bright, Vayu, are they offered up.
Swift through the strainer have they flowed, and here are shed for both ofyou,
Soma-drops, fain for you, over the wether’s fleece, Somas over the wether’s fleece.
Swift through the strainer have they flowed, and here are shed for both ofyou,
Soma-drops, fain for you, over the wether’s fleece, Somas over the wether’s fleece.
7. O
Vayu, pass thou over all the,slumberers, and where the press-stone rings enter
ye both that house, yea, Indra, go ye both within.
The joyous Maiden is beheld, the butter flows. With richly laden team come to our solemn rite, yea, Indra, come ye to the rite.
The joyous Maiden is beheld, the butter flows. With richly laden team come to our solemn rite, yea, Indra, come ye to the rite.
8. Ride
hither to the offering of the pleasant juice, the holy Fig-tree which
victorious priests surround: victorious be they still for us.
At once the cows yield milk, the barleymeal is dressed. For thee,
O Vayu, never shall the cows grow thin, never for thee shall they be dry.
At once the cows yield milk, the barleymeal is dressed. For thee,
O Vayu, never shall the cows grow thin, never for thee shall they be dry.
9. These
Bulls of thine, O Vayu with the arm of strength, who swiftly fly within the
current of thy stream, the Bulls increasing in their might,
Horseless, yet even through the waste swift-moving, whom no shout can stay,
Hard to be checked are they, like sunbeams, in their course. hard to be checked by both the hands.
HYMN CXXXVI. Mitra-Varuna.
Horseless, yet even through the waste swift-moving, whom no shout can stay,
Hard to be checked are they, like sunbeams, in their course. hard to be checked by both the hands.
HYMN CXXXVI. Mitra-Varuna.
1. BRING
adoration ample and most excellent, hymn, offierings, to the watchful Twain,
the bountiful, your sweetest to the bounteous Ones.
Sovrans adored with streams of oil and praised at every sacrifice.
Their high imperial might may nowhere be assailed, ne’er may their Godhead be assailed.
Sovrans adored with streams of oil and praised at every sacrifice.
Their high imperial might may nowhere be assailed, ne’er may their Godhead be assailed.
2. For
the broad Sun was seen a path more widely laid, the path of holy law hath been
maintained with rays, the eye with Bhaga’s rays of light.
Firm-set in heaven is Mitra’s home, and Aryaman’s and Varuna’s.
Thence they give forth great vital strength which merits praise, high power of life that men shall praise.
Firm-set in heaven is Mitra’s home, and Aryaman’s and Varuna’s.
Thence they give forth great vital strength which merits praise, high power of life that men shall praise.
3. With Aditi
the luminous, the celestial, upholder of the people, come ye day by day, ye who
watch sleepless, day by day.
Resplendent might have ye obtained, Adityas, Lords of liberal gifts.
Movers of men, mild both, are Mitra, Varuna, mover of men is Aryaman.
Resplendent might have ye obtained, Adityas, Lords of liberal gifts.
Movers of men, mild both, are Mitra, Varuna, mover of men is Aryaman.
4. This
Soma be most sweet to Mitra, Varuna: he in the drinking-feasts, shall have a
share thereof, sharing, a God, among the Gods.
May all the Gods of one accord accept it joyfully to-day.
Therefore do ye, O Kings, accomplish what we ask, ye Righteous Ones, whate’er we ask.
May all the Gods of one accord accept it joyfully to-day.
Therefore do ye, O Kings, accomplish what we ask, ye Righteous Ones, whate’er we ask.
5.
Whoso, with worship serves Mitra and VaruiIa, him guard ye carefully,
uninjured, from distress, guard from distress the liberal man.
Aryaman guards him well who acts uprightly following his law,
Who beautifies their service with his lauds, who makes it beautiful with songs of praise.
Aryaman guards him well who acts uprightly following his law,
Who beautifies their service with his lauds, who makes it beautiful with songs of praise.
6.
Worship will I proress to lofty Dyaus, to Heaven and Earth, to Mitra and to
bounteous Varuna, the Bounteous, the Compassionate.
Praise Indra, praise thou Agni, praise Bhaga and heavenly Aryaman.
Long may we live and have attendant progeny, have progeny with Soma’s help.
Praise Indra, praise thou Agni, praise Bhaga and heavenly Aryaman.
Long may we live and have attendant progeny, have progeny with Soma’s help.
7. With
the Gods’ help, with Indra still beside us, may we be held self-splendid with
the Maruts.
May Agni, Mitra, Varuna give us shelter this may we gain, we and our wealthy princes.
HYMN CXXXVII. Mitra-Varuna.
May Agni, Mitra, Varuna give us shelter this may we gain, we and our wealthy princes.
HYMN CXXXVII. Mitra-Varuna.
1. WITH
stones have we pressed out: O come; these gladdening drops are blent with milk,
these Soma-drops which gladden you.
Come to us, Kings who reach to heaven, approach us, coming hitherward.
These milky drops are yours, Mitra and Varuna, bright Soma juices blent with milk.
Come to us, Kings who reach to heaven, approach us, coming hitherward.
These milky drops are yours, Mitra and Varuna, bright Soma juices blent with milk.
2. Here
are the droppings; come ye nigh the Soma-droppings blent with curd, juices
expressed and blent with curd.
Now for the wakening of your Dawn together with the Sun-God’s rays,
juice waits for Mitra and for Varuna to drink, fair juice for drink, for sacrihce.
Now for the wakening of your Dawn together with the Sun-God’s rays,
juice waits for Mitra and for Varuna to drink, fair juice for drink, for sacrihce.
3. As
’twere a radiant-coloured cow, they milk with stones the stalk for you, with
stones they milk the Soma-plant.
May ye come nigh us, may ye turn hither to drink the Soma juice.
The men pressed out this juice, Mitra and Varuna, pressed out this Soma for your drink.
HYMN CXXXVIII. Pusan.
May ye come nigh us, may ye turn hither to drink the Soma juice.
The men pressed out this juice, Mitra and Varuna, pressed out this Soma for your drink.
HYMN CXXXVIII. Pusan.
1.
STRONG Pusan’s majesty is lauded evermore, the glory of his lordly might is
never faint, his song of praise is never faint.
Seeking felicity I laud him nigh to help, the source, of bliss,
Who, Vigorous one, hath drawn to him the hearts of all, drawn them, the Vigorous One, the God.
Seeking felicity I laud him nigh to help, the source, of bliss,
Who, Vigorous one, hath drawn to him the hearts of all, drawn them, the Vigorous One, the God.
2.Thee,
then, O Pusan, like a swift one on his way, I urge with lauds that thou mayst
make the foemen flee, drive, camel-like, our foes afar.
As I, a man, call thee, a God, giver of bliss, to be my Friend,
So make our loudly-chanted praises glorious, in battles make them glorious.
As I, a man, call thee, a God, giver of bliss, to be my Friend,
So make our loudly-chanted praises glorious, in battles make them glorious.
3. Thou,
Pusan, in whose friendship they who sing forth praise enjoy advantage, even in
wisdom, through thy grace, in wisdom even they are advanced.
So, after this most recent course, we come to thee with prayers for wealth.
Not stirred to anger, O Wide-Ruler, come to us, come thou to us in every fight.
So, after this most recent course, we come to thee with prayers for wealth.
Not stirred to anger, O Wide-Ruler, come to us, come thou to us in every fight.
4. Not
stirred to anger, come, Free-giver, nigh to us, to take this gift of ours, thou
who hast goats for steeds, Goat-borne! their gift who long for fame.
So, Wonder-Worker! may we turn thee hither with effectual lauds.
I slight thee not, O Pusan, thou Resplendent One: thy friendship may not be despised.
HYMN CXXXIX. Visvedevas.
So, Wonder-Worker! may we turn thee hither with effectual lauds.
I slight thee not, O Pusan, thou Resplendent One: thy friendship may not be despised.
HYMN CXXXIX. Visvedevas.
1. HEARD
be our prayer! In thought I honour Agni first: now straightway we elect this
heavenly company, Indra and Vayu we elect.
For when our latest thought is raised and on Vivasvan centred well,
Then may our holy songs go forward on their way, our songs as ’twere unto the Gods.
For when our latest thought is raised and on Vivasvan centred well,
Then may our holy songs go forward on their way, our songs as ’twere unto the Gods.
2. As
there ye, Mitra, Varuna, above the true have taken to yourselves the untrue
with your mind, with wisdom’s mental energy,
So in the seats wherein ye dwell have we beheld the Golden One,
Not with our thoughts or spirit, but with these our eyes, yea, with the eyes that Soma gives.
So in the seats wherein ye dwell have we beheld the Golden One,
Not with our thoughts or spirit, but with these our eyes, yea, with the eyes that Soma gives.
3.
Asvins, the pious call you with their hymns of praise, sounding their loud song
forth to you, these living men, to their oblations, living men.
All glories and all nourishment, Lords of all wealth! depend on you.
The fellies of your golden chariot scatter drops, Mighty Ones! of your golden car.
All glories and all nourishment, Lords of all wealth! depend on you.
The fellies of your golden chariot scatter drops, Mighty Ones! of your golden car.
4. Well
is it known, O Mighty Ones: ye open heaven; for you the chariotsteeds are yoked
for morning rites, unswerving steeds for morning rites,
We set you on the chariot-scat, ye Mighty, on the golden car.
Ye seek mid-air as by a path that leads aright, as by a path that leads direct.
We set you on the chariot-scat, ye Mighty, on the golden car.
Ye seek mid-air as by a path that leads aright, as by a path that leads direct.
5. O
Rich in Strength, through your great power vouchsafe us blessings day and
night.
The offerings which we bring to you shall never fail, gifts brought by us shall never fail.
The offerings which we bring to you shall never fail, gifts brought by us shall never fail.
6. These
Soma-drops, strong Indra! drink for heroes, poured, pressed out by
pressing-stones, are welling forth for thee, for thee the drops are welling
forth.
They shall make glad thy heart to give, to give wealth great and wonderful.
Thou who acceptest praise come glorified by hymns, come thou to us benevolent.
They shall make glad thy heart to give, to give wealth great and wonderful.
Thou who acceptest praise come glorified by hymns, come thou to us benevolent.
7.
Quickly, O Agni, hear us: magnified by us thou shalt speck for us to the Gods
adorable yea, to the Kings adorable:
When, O ye Deities, ye gave that Milch-cow to the Angirases,
They milked her: Aryaman, joined with them, did the work: he knoweth her as well as I.
When, O ye Deities, ye gave that Milch-cow to the Angirases,
They milked her: Aryaman, joined with them, did the work: he knoweth her as well as I.
8. Ne’er
may these manly deeds of yours for us grow old, never may your bright glories
fall into decay, never before our time decay.
What deed of yours, new every age, wondrous, surpassing man, rings forth,
Whatever, Maruts! may be difficult to gain, grant us, whate’er is hard to gain.
What deed of yours, new every age, wondrous, surpassing man, rings forth,
Whatever, Maruts! may be difficult to gain, grant us, whate’er is hard to gain.
9.
Dadhyac of old, Anigiras, Priyamedha these, and Kanva, Atri, Manu knew my
birth, yea, tbose of ancient days and Manu knew.
Their long line stretcheth to the Gods, our birth-connexions are with them.
To these, for their high station, 1 bow down with song, to Indra, Agni, bow with song.
Their long line stretcheth to the Gods, our birth-connexions are with them.
To these, for their high station, 1 bow down with song, to Indra, Agni, bow with song.
10. Let
the Invoker bless: let offerers bring choice gifts; Brhaspati the Friend doth
sacrifice with Steers, Steers that have many an excellence.
Now with our ears we catch the sound of the press-stone that rings afar.
The very Strong hath gained the waters by himself, the strong gained many a resting-place.
Now with our ears we catch the sound of the press-stone that rings afar.
The very Strong hath gained the waters by himself, the strong gained many a resting-place.
11. O ye
Eleven Gods whose home is heaven, O ye Eleven who make earth your dwelling,
Ye who with might, Eleven, live in waters, accept this sacrifice, O Gods, with pleasure.
Ye who with might, Eleven, live in waters, accept this sacrifice, O Gods, with pleasure.
Translator
Ralph T.H. Griffith
THE FIRST BOOK – Page 7
HYMN
CXL. Agni.
1. To splendid
Agni seated by the altar, loving well his home, I bring the food as ’twere his
place of birth.
I clothe the bright One with my hymn as with a robe, him with the car of light, bright-hued, dispelling gloom.
I clothe the bright One with my hymn as with a robe, him with the car of light, bright-hued, dispelling gloom.
2. Child
of a double birth he grasps at triple food; in the year’s course what he hath
swallowed grows anew.
He, by another’s mouth and tongue a noble Bull, with other, as an elephant, consumes the trees.
He, by another’s mouth and tongue a noble Bull, with other, as an elephant, consumes the trees.
3. The
pair who dwell together, moving in the dark bestir themselves: both parents
hasten to the babe,
Impetuous-tongued, destroying, springing swiftly forth, one to be watched and cherished, strengthener of his sire.
Impetuous-tongued, destroying, springing swiftly forth, one to be watched and cherished, strengthener of his sire.
4. For
man, thou Friend of men, these steeds of thine are yoked, impatient, lightly
running, ploughing blackened lines,
Discordant-minded, fleet, gliding with easy speed, urged onward by the wind and rapid in their course.
Discordant-minded, fleet, gliding with easy speed, urged onward by the wind and rapid in their course.
5.
Dispelling on their way the horror of black gloom , making a glorious show
these flames Of his fly forth,
When o’er the spacious tract he spreads himself abroad, and rushes panting on with thunder and with roar.
When o’er the spacious tract he spreads himself abroad, and rushes panting on with thunder and with roar.
6. Amid
brown plants he stoops as if adorning them, and rushes bellowing like a bull
upon his wives.
Proving his might, he decks the glory of his form, and shakes his horns like one terrific, bard to stay.
Proving his might, he decks the glory of his form, and shakes his horns like one terrific, bard to stay.
7. Now
covered, now displayed he grasps as one who knows his resting-place in those
who know him well.
A second time they wax and gather Godlike power, and blending both together change their Parents’ form.
A second time they wax and gather Godlike power, and blending both together change their Parents’ form.
8. The
maidens with long, tresses hold him in embrace; dead, they rise up again to
meet the Living One.
Releasing them from age with a loud roar he comes, filling them with new spirit, living, unsubdued.
Releasing them from age with a loud roar he comes, filling them with new spirit, living, unsubdued.
9.
Licking the mantle of the Mother, far and wide he wanders over fields with
beasts that flee apace.
Strengthening all that walk, licking up all around, a blackened path, forsooth, he leaves where’er he goes.
Strengthening all that walk, licking up all around, a blackened path, forsooth, he leaves where’er he goes.
10. O
Agni, shine resplendent with our wealthy chiefs, like a loud-snorting bull,
accustomed to the house.
Thou casting off thine infant wrappings blazest forth as though thou hadst put on a coat of mail for war.
Thou casting off thine infant wrappings blazest forth as though thou hadst put on a coat of mail for war.
11. May
this our perfect prayer be dearer unto thee than an imperfect prayer although
it please thee well.
With the pure brilliancy that radiates from thy form, mayest thou grant to us abundant store of wealth.
With the pure brilliancy that radiates from thy form, mayest thou grant to us abundant store of wealth.
12.
Grant to our chariot, to our house, O Agni, a boat with moving feet and
constant oarage,
One that may further well our wealthy princes and all the folk, and be our certain refuge.
One that may further well our wealthy princes and all the folk, and be our certain refuge.
13.
Welcome our laud with thine approval, Agni. May earth and heaven and freely
flowing rivers
Yield us long life and food and corn and cattle, and may the red Dawns choose for us their choicest.
HYMN CXLI. Agni.
Yield us long life and food and corn and cattle, and may the red Dawns choose for us their choicest.
HYMN CXLI. Agni.
1. YEA,
verily, the fair effulgence of the God for glory was established, since he
sprang from strength.
When he inclines thereto successful is the hymn: the songs of sacrifice have brought him as they flow
When he inclines thereto successful is the hymn: the songs of sacrifice have brought him as they flow
2.
Wonderful, rich in nourishment, he dwells in food; next, in the seven
auspicious Mothers is his home.
Thirdly, that they might drain the treasures of the Bull, the maidens brought forth him for whom the ten provide.
Thirdly, that they might drain the treasures of the Bull, the maidens brought forth him for whom the ten provide.
3. What
time from out the deep, from the Steer’s wondrous form, the Chiefs who had the
power produced him with their strength;
When Matarisvan rubbed forth him who lay concealed, for mixture of the sweet drink, in the days of old.
When Matarisvan rubbed forth him who lay concealed, for mixture of the sweet drink, in the days of old.
4. When
from the Highest Father he is brought to us, amid the plants he rises hungry,
wondrously.
As both together join to expedite his birth, most youthful he is born resplendent in his light.
As both together join to expedite his birth, most youthful he is born resplendent in his light.
5. Then
also entered he the Mothers, and in them pure and uninjured he increased in
magnitude.
As to the first he rose, the vigorous from of old, so now he runs among the younger lowest ones.
As to the first he rose, the vigorous from of old, so now he runs among the younger lowest ones.
6.
Therefore they choose him Herald at the morning rites, pressing to him as unto
Bhaga, pouring gifts,
When, much-praised, by the power and will of Gods, he goes at all times to his mortal worshipper to drink.
When, much-praised, by the power and will of Gods, he goes at all times to his mortal worshipper to drink.
7. What
time the Holy One, wind-urged, hath risen up, serpent-like winding through the
dry grass unrestrained,
Dust lies upon the way of him who burneth all, black-winged and pure of birth who follows sundry paths.
Dust lies upon the way of him who burneth all, black-winged and pure of birth who follows sundry paths.
8. Like
a swift chariot made by men who know their art, he with his red limbs lifts
himself aloft to heaven.
Thy worshippers become by burning black of hue: their strength flies as before a hero’s violence.
Thy worshippers become by burning black of hue: their strength flies as before a hero’s violence.
9. By
thee, O Agni, Varuna who guards the Law, Mitra and Aryaman, the Bounteous, are
made strong;
For, as the felly holds the spokes, thou with thy might pervading hast been born encompassing them round.
For, as the felly holds the spokes, thou with thy might pervading hast been born encompassing them round.
10. Agni,
to him who toils and pours libations, thou, Most Youthful! sendest wealth and
all the host of Gods.
Thee, therefore, even as Bhaga, will we set anew, young Child of Strength, most wealthy! in our battle-song.
Thee, therefore, even as Bhaga, will we set anew, young Child of Strength, most wealthy! in our battle-song.
11.
Vouchsafe us riches turned to worthy ends, good luck abiding in the house, and
strong capacity,
Wealth that directs both worlds as they were guiding-reins, and, very Wise, the Gods’ assent in sacrifice.
Wealth that directs both worlds as they were guiding-reins, and, very Wise, the Gods’ assent in sacrifice.
12. May
he, the Priest resplendent, joyful, hear us, he with the radiant car and rapid
horses.
May Agni, ever wise, with best directions to bliss and highest happiness conduct us.
May Agni, ever wise, with best directions to bliss and highest happiness conduct us.
13. With
hymns of might hath Agni now been lauded, advanced to height of universal
kingship.
Now may these wealthy chiefs and we together spread forth as spreads the Sun above the rain-clouds.
HYMN CXLII Apris.
Now may these wealthy chiefs and we together spread forth as spreads the Sun above the rain-clouds.
HYMN CXLII Apris.
1.
KINDLED, bring, Agni, Gods to-day for him who lifts the ladle up.
Spin out the ancient thread for him who sheds, with gifts, the Soma juice.
Spin out the ancient thread for him who sheds, with gifts, the Soma juice.
2. Thou
dealest forth, Tanunapat, sweet sacrifice enriched with oil,
Brought by a singer such as I who offers gifts and toils for thee.
Brought by a singer such as I who offers gifts and toils for thee.
3. He
wondrous, sanctifying, bright, sprinkles the sacrifice with mead,
Thrice, Narasamsa from the heavens, a God mid Gods adorable.
Thrice, Narasamsa from the heavens, a God mid Gods adorable.
4. Agni,
besought, bring hitherward Indra the Friend, the Wonderful,
For this my hymn of praise, O sweet of tongue, is chanted forth to thee.
For this my hymn of praise, O sweet of tongue, is chanted forth to thee.
5. The
ladle-holders strew trimmed grass at this well-ordered sacrifice;
A home for Indra is adorned, wide, fittest to receive the Gods.
A home for Indra is adorned, wide, fittest to receive the Gods.
6.
Thrown open be the Doors Divine, unfailing, that assist the rite,
High, purifying, much-desired, so that the Gods may enter in.
High, purifying, much-desired, so that the Gods may enter in.
7. May
Night and Morning, hymned with lauds, united, fair to look upon,
Strong Mothers of the sacrifice, seat them together on the grass.
Strong Mothers of the sacrifice, seat them together on the grass.
8. May
the two Priests Divine, the sage, the sweet-voiced lovers of the hymn,
Complete this sacrifice of ours, effectual, reaching heaven to-day.
Complete this sacrifice of ours, effectual, reaching heaven to-day.
9. Let
Hotri pure, set amang Gods, amid the Maruts Bhirati, Ila, Sarasvati, Mahi, rest
on the grass, adorable.
10. May
Tvastar send us genial dew abundant, wondrous, rich in gifts,
For increase and for growth of wealth, Tvastar our kinsman and our Friend.
For increase and for growth of wealth, Tvastar our kinsman and our Friend.
11.
Vanaspati, give forth, thyself, and call the Gods to sacrifice.
May Agni, God intelligent, speed our oblation to the Gods.
May Agni, God intelligent, speed our oblation to the Gods.
12.To
Vayu joined with Pusan, with the Maruts, and the host of Gods,
To Indra who inspires the hymn cry Glory! and present the gift.
To Indra who inspires the hymn cry Glory! and present the gift.
13. Come
hither to enjoy the gifts prepared with cry of Glory! Come,
O Indra, hear their calling; they invite thee to the sacrifice.
HYMN CXLIII. Agni.
O Indra, hear their calling; they invite thee to the sacrifice.
HYMN CXLIII. Agni.
1. To
Agni I present a newer mightier hymn, I bring my words and song unto the Son of
Strength,
Who, Offspring of the Waters, bearing precious things sits on the earth, in season, dear Invoking Priest.
Who, Offspring of the Waters, bearing precious things sits on the earth, in season, dear Invoking Priest.
2. Soon
as he sprang to birth that Agni was shown forth to Matarisvan in the highest
firmament.
When he was kindled, through his power and majesty his fiery splendour made the heavens and earth to shine.
When he was kindled, through his power and majesty his fiery splendour made the heavens and earth to shine.
3. His
flames that wax not old, beams fair to look upon of him whose face is lovely,
shine with beauteous sheen.
The rays of Agni, him whose active force is light, through the nights glimmer sleepless, ageless, like the floods.
The rays of Agni, him whose active force is light, through the nights glimmer sleepless, ageless, like the floods.
4. Send
thou with hymns that Agni to his own abode, who rules, one Sovran Lord of
wealth, like Varuna,
Him, All-possessor, whom the Bhrgus with their might brought to earth’s central point, the centre of the world.
Him, All-possessor, whom the Bhrgus with their might brought to earth’s central point, the centre of the world.
5. He
whom no force can stay, even as the Maruts’ roar, like to a dart sent forth,
even as the bolt from heaven,
Agni with sharpened jaws chews up and cats the trees, and conquers them as when the warrior smites his foes.
Agni with sharpened jaws chews up and cats the trees, and conquers them as when the warrior smites his foes.
6. And
will not Agni find enjoyment in our praise, will not the Vasu grant our wish
with gifts of wealth?
Will not the Inspirer speed our prayers to gain their end? Him with the radiant glance 1 laud with this my song.
Will not the Inspirer speed our prayers to gain their end? Him with the radiant glance 1 laud with this my song.
7. The
kindler of the flame wins Agni as a Friend, promoter of the Law, whose face is
bright with oil.
Inflamed and keen, refulgent in our gatherings, he lifts our hymn on high clad in his radiant hues.
Inflamed and keen, refulgent in our gatherings, he lifts our hymn on high clad in his radiant hues.
8. Keep
us incessantly with guards that cease not, Agni, with guards auspicious, very
mighty.
With guards that never slumber, never heedless, never beguiled. O Helper, keep our children.
HYMN CXLIV. Agni.
With guards that never slumber, never heedless, never beguiled. O Helper, keep our children.
HYMN CXLIV. Agni.
1. THE
Priest goes forth to sacrifice, with wondrous power sending aloft the hymn of
glorious brilliancy.
He moves to meet the ladles turning to the right, which are the first to kiss the place where he abides.
He moves to meet the ladles turning to the right, which are the first to kiss the place where he abides.
2. To
him sang forth the flowing streams of Holy Law, encompassed in the home and
birth-place of the God.
He, when he dwelt extended in the waters’ lap, absorbed those Godlike powers for which he is adored.
He, when he dwelt extended in the waters’ lap, absorbed those Godlike powers for which he is adored.
3.
Seeking in course altern to reach the selfsame end the two copartners strive to
win this beauteous form.
Like Bhaga must he be duly invoked by us, as he who drives the car holds fast the horse’s reins.
Like Bhaga must he be duly invoked by us, as he who drives the car holds fast the horse’s reins.
4. He
whom the two copartners with observance tend, the pair who dwell together in
the same abode,
By night as in the day the grey one was born young, passing untouched by eld through many an age of man.
By night as in the day the grey one was born young, passing untouched by eld through many an age of man.
5. Him
the ten fingers, the devotions. animate: we mortals call on him a God to give
us help.
He speeds over the sloping surface of the land: new deeds hath he performed with those who gird him round.
He speeds over the sloping surface of the land: new deeds hath he performed with those who gird him round.
6. For,
Agni, like a herdsman, thou by thine own might rulest o’er all that is in
heaven and on the earth;
And these two Mighty Ones, bright, golden closely joined, rolling them round are come unto thy sacred grass.
And these two Mighty Ones, bright, golden closely joined, rolling them round are come unto thy sacred grass.
7. Agni,
accept with joy, be glad in this our prayer, joy-giver, self-sustained, strong,
born of Holy Law!
For fair to see art thou turning to every side, pleasant to look on as a dwelling filled with food.
For fair to see art thou turning to every side, pleasant to look on as a dwelling filled with food.
HYMN
CXLV. Agni.
1. Ask
ye of him for he is come, he knoweth it; he, full of wisdom, is implored, is
now implored.
With him are admonitions and with him commands: he is the Lord of Strength, the Lord of Power and Might.
With him are admonitions and with him commands: he is the Lord of Strength, the Lord of Power and Might.
2. They
ask of him: not all learn by their questioning what he, the Sage, hath grasped,
as ’twere, with his own mind.
Forgetting not the former nor the later word, he goeth on, not careless, in his mental power.
Forgetting not the former nor the later word, he goeth on, not careless, in his mental power.
3. To
him these ladles go, to him these racing mares: he only will give ear to all
the words I speak.
All-speeding, victor, perfecter of sacrifice, the Babe with flawless help hath mustered vigorous might.
All-speeding, victor, perfecter of sacrifice, the Babe with flawless help hath mustered vigorous might.
4.
Whate’er he meets he grasps and then runs farther on, and straightway, newly
born,creeps forward with his kin.
He stirs the wearied man to pleasure and great joy what time the longing gifts approach him as he comes.
He stirs the wearied man to pleasure and great joy what time the longing gifts approach him as he comes.
5. He is
a wild thing of the flood and forest: he hath been laid upon the highest
surface.
He hath declared the lore of works to mortals, Agni the Wise, for he knows Law, the Truthful.
HYMN CXLVI. Agni.
He hath declared the lore of works to mortals, Agni the Wise, for he knows Law, the Truthful.
HYMN CXLVI. Agni.
1. I
LAUD the seven-rayed, the triple-headed, Agni all-perfect in his Parents’
bosom,
Sunk in the lap of all that moves and moves not, him who hath filled all luminous realms of heaven.
Sunk in the lap of all that moves and moves not, him who hath filled all luminous realms of heaven.
2. As a
great Steer he grew to these his Parents; sublime lie stands, untouched by eld,
far-reaching.
He plants his footsteps on the lofty ridges of the broad earth: his red flames lick the udder.
He plants his footsteps on the lofty ridges of the broad earth: his red flames lick the udder.
3.
Coming together to their common youngling both Cows, fairshaped, spread forth
in all directions,
Measuring out the paths that must be travelled, entrusting all desires to him the Mighty.
Measuring out the paths that must be travelled, entrusting all desires to him the Mighty.
4. The
prudent sages lead him to his dwelling, guarding with varied skill the
Ever-Youthful.
Longing, they turned their eyes unto the River: to these the Sun of men was manifested.
Longing, they turned their eyes unto the River: to these the Sun of men was manifested.
5. Born
noble in the regions, aim of all mens’ eyes to be implored for life by great
and small alike,
Far as the Wealthy One hath spread himself abroad, he is the Sire all-visible of this progeny.
HYMN CXLVII. Agni.
Far as the Wealthy One hath spread himself abroad, he is the Sire all-visible of this progeny.
HYMN CXLVII. Agni.
1. How,
Agni, have the radiant ones, aspiring, endued thee with the vigour of the
living,
So that on both sides fostering seed and offspring, the Gods may joy in Holy Law’s fulfilment?
So that on both sides fostering seed and offspring, the Gods may joy in Holy Law’s fulfilment?
2. Mark
this my speech, Divine One, thou, Most Youthful! offered to thee by him who
gives most freely.
One hates thee, and another sings thy praises: I thine adorer laud thy form, O Agni.
One hates thee, and another sings thy praises: I thine adorer laud thy form, O Agni.
3. Thy
guardian rays, O Agni, when they saw him, preserved blind Mamateya from
affliction.
Lord of all riches, he preserved the pious the foes who fain would harm them did no mischief.
Lord of all riches, he preserved the pious the foes who fain would harm them did no mischief.
4. The
sinful man who worships not, O Agni, who, offering not, harms us with
double-dealing,-
Be this in turn to him a heavy sentence may he distress himself by his revilings.
Be this in turn to him a heavy sentence may he distress himself by his revilings.
5. Yea,
when a mortal knowingly, O Victor, injures with double tongue a fellow-mortal,
From him, praised Agni! save thou him that lauds thee: bring us not into trouble and affliction.
HYMN CXLVIII. Agni.
From him, praised Agni! save thou him that lauds thee: bring us not into trouble and affliction.
HYMN CXLVIII. Agni.
1. WHAT
Matarisvan, piercing, formed by friction, Herald of all the Gods. in varied
figure,
Is he whom they have set mid human houses, gay-hued as light and shining forth for beauty.
Is he whom they have set mid human houses, gay-hued as light and shining forth for beauty.
2. They
shall not harm the man who brings thee praises: such as I am, Agni my help
approves me.
All acts of mine shall they accept with pleasure, laudation from the singer who presents it.
All acts of mine shall they accept with pleasure, laudation from the singer who presents it.
3. Him
in his constant seat men skilled in worship have taken and with praises have
established.
As, harnessed to a chariot fleet-foot horses, at his command let bearers lead him forward.
As, harnessed to a chariot fleet-foot horses, at his command let bearers lead him forward.
4.
Wondrous, full many a thing he chews and crunches: he shines amid the wood with
spreading brightness.
Upon his glowing flames the wind blows daily, driving them like the keen shaft of an archer.
Upon his glowing flames the wind blows daily, driving them like the keen shaft of an archer.
5. Him,
whom while yet in embryo the hostile, both skilled and fain to harm, may never
injure,
Men blind and sightless through his splendour hurt not: his never-failing lovers have preserved him.
HYMN CXLIX. Agni.
Men blind and sightless through his splendour hurt not: his never-failing lovers have preserved him.
HYMN CXLIX. Agni.
1.
HITHER he hastens to give, Lord of great riches, King of the mighty, to the
place of treasure.
lie pressing-stones shall serve him speeding near us.
lie pressing-stones shall serve him speeding near us.
2. As
Steer of men so Steer of earth and heaven by glory, he whose streams all life
hath drunken,
Who hasting forward rests upon the altar.
Who hasting forward rests upon the altar.
3. He
who hath lighted up the joyous castle, wise Courser like the Steed of cloudy
heaven,
Bright like the Sun, with hundredfold existence.
Bright like the Sun, with hundredfold existence.
4. He,
doubly born, hath spread in his effulgence through the three luminous realms,
through all the regions,
Best sacrificing Priest where waters gather.
Best sacrificing Priest where waters gather.
5.
Priest doubly born, he through his love of glory hath in his keeping all things
worth the choosing,
The man who brings him gifts hath noble offspring.
HYMN CL. Agni.
The man who brings him gifts hath noble offspring.
HYMN CL. Agni.
1. AGNI,
thy faithful servant I call upon thee with many a gift,
As in the keeping of the great inciting God;
As in the keeping of the great inciting God;
2. Thou
who ne’er movest thee to aid the indolent, the godless man,
Him who though wealthy never brings an offering.
Him who though wealthy never brings an offering.
3.
Splendid, O Singer, is that man, mightiest of the great in heaven.
Agni, may we be foremost, we thy worshippers.
HYMN CLI. Mitra and Varuna
Agni, may we be foremost, we thy worshippers.
HYMN CLI. Mitra and Varuna
1.
HEAVEN and earth trembled at the might and voice of him, whom, loved and Holy
One, helper of all mankind,
The wise who longed for spoil in fight for kine brought forth with power, a Friend, mid waters, at the sacrifice.
The wise who longed for spoil in fight for kine brought forth with power, a Friend, mid waters, at the sacrifice.
2. As
these, like friends, have done this work for you, these prompt servants of
Purumilha Soma-offerer,
Give mental power to him who sings the sacred song, and hearken, Strong Ones, to the master ofthe house.
Give mental power to him who sings the sacred song, and hearken, Strong Ones, to the master ofthe house.
3. The folk
have glorified your birth from Earth and Heaven, to be extolled, ye Strong
Ones, for your mighty power.
Ye, when ye bring to singer and the rite, enjoy the sacrifice periormed with holy praise and strength.
Ye, when ye bring to singer and the rite, enjoy the sacrifice periormed with holy praise and strength.
4. The
people prospers, Asuras! whom ye dearly love: ye, Righteous Ones, proclaim
aloud the Holy Law.
That efficacious power that comes from lofty heaven, ye bind unto the work, as to the pole an ox.
That efficacious power that comes from lofty heaven, ye bind unto the work, as to the pole an ox.
5. On
this great earth ye send your treasure down with might: unstained by dust, the
crowding kine are in the stalls.
Here in the neighbourhood they cry unto the Sun at morning and at evening, like swift birds of prey.
Here in the neighbourhood they cry unto the Sun at morning and at evening, like swift birds of prey.
6. The
flames with curling tresses serve your sacrifice, whereto ye sing the song,
Mitra and Varuna.
Send down of your free will, prosper our holy songs: ye are sole Masters of the singer’s hymn of praise.
Send down of your free will, prosper our holy songs: ye are sole Masters of the singer’s hymn of praise.
7. Whoso
with sacrifices toiling brings you gifts, and worships, sage and priest,
fulfilling your desire,-
To him do ye draw nigh and taste his sacrifice. Come well-inclined to us unto our songs and prayer.
To him do ye draw nigh and taste his sacrifice. Come well-inclined to us unto our songs and prayer.
8. With
sacrifices and with milk they deck you first, ye Righteous Ones, as if through
stirrings of the mind.
To you they bring their hymns with their collected thought, while ye with earnest soul come to us gloriously.
To you they bring their hymns with their collected thought, while ye with earnest soul come to us gloriously.
9. Rich
strength of life is yours: ye, Heroes, have obtained through your surpassing
powers rich far-extending might.
Not the past days conjoined with nights, not rivers, not the Papis have attained your Godhead and your wealth.
HYMN CLII. Mitra-Varuna.
Not the past days conjoined with nights, not rivers, not the Papis have attained your Godhead and your wealth.
HYMN CLII. Mitra-Varuna.
1. THE
robes which ye put on abound with fatness: uninterrupted courses are your
counsels.
All falsehood, Mitra-Varuna! ye conquer, and closely cleave unto the Law Eternal.
All falsehood, Mitra-Varuna! ye conquer, and closely cleave unto the Law Eternal.
2. This
might of theirs hath no one comprehended. True is the crushing word the sage
hath uttered,
The fearful four-edged bolt smites down the three-edged, and those who hate the Gods first fall and perish.
The fearful four-edged bolt smites down the three-edged, and those who hate the Gods first fall and perish.
3. The
Footless Maid precedeth footed creatures. Who marketh, Mitra-Varuna, this your
doing?
The Babe Unborn supporteth this world’s burthen, fuIfilleth Law and overcometh falsehood.
The Babe Unborn supporteth this world’s burthen, fuIfilleth Law and overcometh falsehood.
4. We
look on him the darling of the Maidens, always advancing, never falling
downward,
Wearing inseparable, wide-spread raiment, Mitra’s and Varuna’s delightful glory.
Wearing inseparable, wide-spread raiment, Mitra’s and Varuna’s delightful glory.
5.
Unbridled Courser, horn but not of horses, neighing he flieth on with back
uplifted.
The youthful love mystery thought-surpassing, praising in Mitra-Varuna, its glory.
The youthful love mystery thought-surpassing, praising in Mitra-Varuna, its glory.
6. May
the milch-kine who favour Mamateya prosper in this world him who loves
devotion.
May he, well skilled in rites, be food, and calling Aditi with his lips give us assistance.
May he, well skilled in rites, be food, and calling Aditi with his lips give us assistance.
7. Gods,
Mitra-Varuna, with love and worship, let me make you delight in this oblation.
May our prayer be victorious in battles, may we have rain from heaven to make us prosper.
May our prayer be victorious in battles, may we have rain from heaven to make us prosper.
HYMN
CLIII. Mitra-Varuna.
1. WE worship
with our reverence and oblations you, Mitra Varuna, accordant, mighty,
So that with us, ye Twain whose backs are sprinkled with oil, the priests with oil and hymns support you.
So that with us, ye Twain whose backs are sprinkled with oil, the priests with oil and hymns support you.
2. Your
praise is like a mighty power, an impulse: to you, Twain Gods, a well-formed
hymn is offered,
As the priest decks yon, Strong Ones, in assemblies, and the prince fain to worship you for blessings.
As the priest decks yon, Strong Ones, in assemblies, and the prince fain to worship you for blessings.
3. O
Mitra-Varuna, Aditi the Milch-cow streams for the rite, for folk who bring
oblation,
When in the assembly he who worships moves you, like to a human priest, with gifts presented.
When in the assembly he who worships moves you, like to a human priest, with gifts presented.
4. So
may the kine and heavenly Waters pour you sweet drink in families that make you
joyful.
Of this may he, the ancient House-Lord, give us. Enjoy, drink of the milk the cow provideth.
HYMN CLIV. Visnu
Of this may he, the ancient House-Lord, give us. Enjoy, drink of the milk the cow provideth.
HYMN CLIV. Visnu
1. I
WILL declare the mighty deeds of Visnu, of him who measured out the earthly
regions,
Who propped the highest place of congregation, thrice setting down his footstep, widely striding.
Who propped the highest place of congregation, thrice setting down his footstep, widely striding.
2. For
this his mighty deed is Visnu lauded, like some wild beast, dread, prowling,
mountain-roaming;
He within whose three wide-extended paces all living creatures have their habitation.
He within whose three wide-extended paces all living creatures have their habitation.
3. Let
the hymn lift itself as strength to Visnu, the Bull far-striding, dwelling on
the mountains,
Him who alone with triple step hath measured this common dwelling-place, long, far extended.
Him who alone with triple step hath measured this common dwelling-place, long, far extended.
4. Him
whose three places that are filled with sweetness, imperishable, joy as it may
list them,
Who verily alone upholds the threefold, the earth, the heaven, and all living creatures.
Who verily alone upholds the threefold, the earth, the heaven, and all living creatures.
5. May I
attain to that his well-loved mansion where men devoted to the Gods are happy.
For there springs, close akin to the Wide-Strider, the well of meath in Visnu’s highest footstep.
For there springs, close akin to the Wide-Strider, the well of meath in Visnu’s highest footstep.
6. Fain
would we go unto your dwelling-places where there are many-horned and nimble
oxen,
For mightily, there, shineth down upon us the widely-striding Bull’s sublimest mansion.
HYMN CLV. Visnu-Indra.
For mightily, there, shineth down upon us the widely-striding Bull’s sublimest mansion.
HYMN CLV. Visnu-Indra.
1. To
the great Hero, him who sets his mind thereon, and Visnu, praise aloud in song
your draught of juice,-
Gods ne’er beguiled, who borne as ’twere by noble steed, have stood upon the lofty ridges of the hills.
Gods ne’er beguiled, who borne as ’twere by noble steed, have stood upon the lofty ridges of the hills.
2. Your
Soma-drinker keeps afar your furious rush, Indra and Visnu, when ye come with
all your might.
That which hath been directed well at mortal man, bow-armed Krsanu’s arrow, ye turn far aside.
That which hath been directed well at mortal man, bow-armed Krsanu’s arrow, ye turn far aside.
3. These
offerings increase his mighty manly strength: he brings both Parents down to
share the genial flow.
He lowers, though a son, the Father’s highest name; the third is that which is high in the light of heaven.
He lowers, though a son, the Father’s highest name; the third is that which is high in the light of heaven.
4. We laud
this manly power of him the Mighty One, preserver, inoffensive, bounteous and
benign;
His who strode, widely pacing, with three steppings forth over the realms of earth for freedom and for life.
His who strode, widely pacing, with three steppings forth over the realms of earth for freedom and for life.
5. A
mortal man, when he beholds two steps of him who looks upon the light, is
restless with amaze.
But his third step doth no one venture to approach, no, nor the feathered birds of air who fly with wings.
But his third step doth no one venture to approach, no, nor the feathered birds of air who fly with wings.
6. He,
like a rounded wheel, hath in swift motion set his ninety racing steeds
together with the four.
Developed, vast in form, with those who sing forth praise, a youth, no more a child, he cometh to our call.
HYMN CLVI. Visnu
Developed, vast in form, with those who sing forth praise, a youth, no more a child, he cometh to our call.
HYMN CLVI. Visnu
1.
FAR-SHINING, widely famed, going thy wonted way, fed with the oil, be helpful.
Mitra-like, to us.
So, Visnu, e’en the wise must swell thy song of praise, and he who hath oblations pay thee solemn rites.
So, Visnu, e’en the wise must swell thy song of praise, and he who hath oblations pay thee solemn rites.
2. He
who brings gifts to him the Ancient and the Last, to Visnu who ordains,
together with his Spouse,
Who tells the lofty birth of him the Lofty One, shall verily surpass in glory e’en his peer.
Who tells the lofty birth of him the Lofty One, shall verily surpass in glory e’en his peer.
3. Him
have ye satisfied, singers, as well as ye know, primeval germ of Order even
from his birth.
Ye, knowing e’en his name, have told it forth: may we, Visnu, enjoy the grace of thee the Mighty One.
Ye, knowing e’en his name, have told it forth: may we, Visnu, enjoy the grace of thee the Mighty One.
4. The
Sovran Varuna and both the Asvins wait on this the will of him who guides the
Marut host.
Visnu hath power supreme and might iliat finds the day, and with his Friend unbars the stable of the kine.
Visnu hath power supreme and might iliat finds the day, and with his Friend unbars the stable of the kine.
5. Even
he the Heavenly One who came for fellowship, Visnu to Indra, godly to the
godlier,
Who Maker, throned in three worlds, helps the Aryan man, and gives the worshipper his share of Holy Law.
HYMN CLVII. Asvins.
Who Maker, throned in three worlds, helps the Aryan man, and gives the worshipper his share of Holy Law.
HYMN CLVII. Asvins.
1. AGNI
is wakened: Surya riseth from the earth. Mighty, refulgent Dawn hath shone with
all her light.
The Asvins have equipped their chariot for the course. God Savitar hath moved the folk in sundry ways.
The Asvins have equipped their chariot for the course. God Savitar hath moved the folk in sundry ways.
2. When,
Asvins, ye equip your very mighty car, bedew, ye Twain, our power with honey
and with oil.
To our devotion give victorious strength in war: may we win riches in the heroes’ strife for spoil.
To our devotion give victorious strength in war: may we win riches in the heroes’ strife for spoil.
3. Nigh
to us come the Asvins’ lauded three-wheeled car, the car laden with meath and
drawn by fleet-foot steeds,
Three-seated, opulent, bestowing all delight. may it bring weal to us, to cattle and to men.
Three-seated, opulent, bestowing all delight. may it bring weal to us, to cattle and to men.
4. Bring
hither nourishment for us, ye Asvins Twain; sprinkle us with your whip that
drops with honey-dew.
Prolong our days of life, wipe out our trespasses; destroy our foes, be our companions and our Friends.
Prolong our days of life, wipe out our trespasses; destroy our foes, be our companions and our Friends.
5. Ye
store the germ of life in female creatures, ye lay it up within all living
beings.
Ye have sent forth, O Asvins passing mighty, the fire, the sovrans of the wood, the waters,
Ye have sent forth, O Asvins passing mighty, the fire, the sovrans of the wood, the waters,
6.
Leeches are ye with medicines to heal us, and charioteers are ye with skill in
driving.
Ye Strong, give sway to him who brings oblation and with his heart pours out his gift before you.
HYMN CLVIII. Asvins.
Ye Strong, give sway to him who brings oblation and with his heart pours out his gift before you.
HYMN CLVIII. Asvins.
1. YE
Vasus Twain, ye Rudras full of counsel, grant us, Strong Strengtheners, when ye
stand beside us,
What wealth Aucathya craves of you, great Helpers when ye come forward with no niggard succour.
What wealth Aucathya craves of you, great Helpers when ye come forward with no niggard succour.
2. Who
may give you aught, Vasus, for your favour, for what, at the Cow’s place, ye
grant through worship?
Wake for us understanding full of riches, come with a heart that will fulfil our longing.
Wake for us understanding full of riches, come with a heart that will fulfil our longing.
3. As
erst for Tugra’s son your car, sea-crossing, strong, was equipped and set amid
the waters,
So may I gain your shelter and protection as with winged course a hero seeks his army.
So may I gain your shelter and protection as with winged course a hero seeks his army.
4. May
this my praise preserve Ucathya’s offispring: let not these Twain who fly with
wings exhaust me.
Let not the wood ten times up-piled consume me, when fixed for you it bites the ground it stands on.
Let not the wood ten times up-piled consume me, when fixed for you it bites the ground it stands on.
5. The
most maternal streams, wherein the Dilsas cast me securely bound, have not
devoured me.
When Traitana would cleave my head asunder, the Dasa wounded his own breast and shoulders.
When Traitana would cleave my head asunder, the Dasa wounded his own breast and shoulders.
6.
Dirghatamas the son of Mamati hath come to length of days in the tenth age of
human kind.
He is the Brahman of the waters as they strive to reach their end and aim: their charioteer is he.
HYMN CLIX. Heaven and Earth.
He is the Brahman of the waters as they strive to reach their end and aim: their charioteer is he.
HYMN CLIX. Heaven and Earth.
1. I
PRAISE with sacrifices mighty Heaven and Earth at festivals, the wise, the
Strengtheners of Law.
Who, having Gods for progeny, conjoined with Gods, through wonder-working wisdom bring forth choicest boons.
Who, having Gods for progeny, conjoined with Gods, through wonder-working wisdom bring forth choicest boons.
2. With
invocations, on the gracious Father’s mind, and on the Mother’s great inherent
power I muse.
Prolific Parents, they have made the world of life, and for their brood all round wide immortality.
Prolific Parents, they have made the world of life, and for their brood all round wide immortality.
3. These
Sons of yours well skilled in work, of wondrous power, brought forth to life
the two great Mothers first of all.
To keep the truth of all that stands and all that moves, ye guard the station of your Son who knows no guile.
To keep the truth of all that stands and all that moves, ye guard the station of your Son who knows no guile.
4. They
with surpassing skill, most wise, have measured out the Twins united in their
birth and in their home.
They, the refulgent Sages, weave within the sky, yea, in the depths of sea, a web for ever new.
They, the refulgent Sages, weave within the sky, yea, in the depths of sea, a web for ever new.
5. This
is to-day the goodliest gift of Savitar: this thought we have when now the God
is furthering us.
On us with loving-kindness Heaven and Earth bestow riches and various wealth and treasure hundredfold!
HYMN CLX. Heaven and Earth.
On us with loving-kindness Heaven and Earth bestow riches and various wealth and treasure hundredfold!
HYMN CLX. Heaven and Earth.
1.
THESE, Heaven and Earth, bestow prosperity on all, sustainers of the region,
Holy Ones and wise,
Two Bowls of noble kind: between these Goddesses the God, the fulgent Sun, travels by fixed decree.
Two Bowls of noble kind: between these Goddesses the God, the fulgent Sun, travels by fixed decree.
2.
Widely-capacious Pair, mighty, that never fail, the Father and the Mother keep
all creatures safe:
The two world-halves, the spirited, the beautiful, because the Father hath clothed them in goodly forms.
The two world-halves, the spirited, the beautiful, because the Father hath clothed them in goodly forms.
3. Son
of these Parents, he the Priest with power to cleanse, Sage, sanctifies the
worlds with his surpassing power.
Thereto for his bright milk he milked through all the days the party-coloured Cow and the prolific Bull.
Thereto for his bright milk he milked through all the days the party-coloured Cow and the prolific Bull.
4. Among
the skilful Gods most skilled is he, who made the two world-halves which bring
prosperity to all;
Who with great wisdom measured both the regions out, and stablished them with pillars that shall ne’er decay.
Who with great wisdom measured both the regions out, and stablished them with pillars that shall ne’er decay.
5.
Extolled in song, O Heaven and Earth, bestow on us, ye mighty Pair, great glory
and high lordly sway,
Whereby we may extend ourselves ever over the folk; and send us strength that shall deserve the praise of men.
HYMN CLXI. Rbhus.
Whereby we may extend ourselves ever over the folk; and send us strength that shall deserve the praise of men.
HYMN CLXI. Rbhus.
1. WHY
hath the Best, why hath the Youngest come to us? Upon what embassy comes he?
What have we said?
We have not blamed the chalice of illustrious birth. We, Brother Agni, praised the goodness of the wood.
We have not blamed the chalice of illustrious birth. We, Brother Agni, praised the goodness of the wood.
2. The
chalice that is single make ye into four: thus have the Gods commanded;
therefore am I come.
If, O Sudhanvan’s Children, ye will do this thing ye shall participate in sacrifice with Gods.
If, O Sudhanvan’s Children, ye will do this thing ye shall participate in sacrifice with Gods.
3. What
to the envoy Agni in reply ye spake, A courser must be made, a chariot
fashioned here,
A cow must be created, and the Twain made young. When we have done these things, Brother, we turn to you.
A cow must be created, and the Twain made young. When we have done these things, Brother, we turn to you.
4. When
thus, O Rbhus, ye had done ye questioned thus, Whither went he who came to us a
messenger?
Then Tvastar, when he viewed the four wrought chalices, concealed himself among the Consorts of the Gods.
Then Tvastar, when he viewed the four wrought chalices, concealed himself among the Consorts of the Gods.
5. As
Tvastar thus had spoken, Let us slay these men who have reviled the chalice,
drinking-cup of Gods,
They gave themselves new names when Soma juice was shed, and under these new names the Maiden welcomed them.
They gave themselves new names when Soma juice was shed, and under these new names the Maiden welcomed them.
6. Indra
hath yoked his Bays, the Asvins’ car is horsed, Brhaspati hath brought the Cow
of every hue.
Ye went as Rbhus, Vibhvan, Vaja to the Gods, and skilled in war, obtained your share in sacrifice.
Ye went as Rbhus, Vibhvan, Vaja to the Gods, and skilled in war, obtained your share in sacrifice.
7. Ye by
your wisdom brought a cow from out a hide; unto that ancient Pair ye gave again
their youth.
Out of a horse, Sudhanvan’s Sons, ye formed a horse: a chariot ye equipped, and went unto the Gods.
Out of a horse, Sudhanvan’s Sons, ye formed a horse: a chariot ye equipped, and went unto the Gods.
8. Drink
ye this water, were the words ye spake to them; or drink ye this, the rinsing
of the Munja-grass.
If ye approve not even this, Sudhanvan’s Sons, then at the third libation gladden ye yourselves.
If ye approve not even this, Sudhanvan’s Sons, then at the third libation gladden ye yourselves.
9. Most
excellent are waters, thus said one of you; most excellent is Agni, thus
another said.
Another praised to many a one the lightning cloud. Then did ye shape the cups, speaking the words of truth.
Another praised to many a one the lightning cloud. Then did ye shape the cups, speaking the words of truth.
10. One
downward to the water drives the crippled cow, another trims the flesh brought
on the carving-board.
One carries off the refuse at the set of sun. How did the Parents aid their children in their task!
One carries off the refuse at the set of sun. How did the Parents aid their children in their task!
11. On
the high places ye have made the grass for man, and water in the valleys, by
your skill, O Men.
Rbhus, ye iterate not to-day that act of yours, your sleeping in the house of him whom naught can hide.
Rbhus, ye iterate not to-day that act of yours, your sleeping in the house of him whom naught can hide.
12. As,
compassing them round, ye glided through the worlds, where had the venerable
Parents their abode?
Ye laid a curse on him who raised his arm at you: to him who spake aloud to you ye spake again.
Ye laid a curse on him who raised his arm at you: to him who spake aloud to you ye spake again.
13. When
ye had slept your fill, ye Rbhus, thus ye asked, O thou whom naught may hide,
who now hath wakened us?
The goat declared the hound to be your wakener. That day, in a full year, ye first unclosed our eyes.
The goat declared the hound to be your wakener. That day, in a full year, ye first unclosed our eyes.
14. The
Maruts move in heaven, on earth this Agni; through the mid-firmament the Wind
approaches.
Varuna comes in the sea’s gathered waters, O Sons of Strength, desirous of your presence.
Varuna comes in the sea’s gathered waters, O Sons of Strength, desirous of your presence.
Translator
Ralph T.H. Griffith
THE FIRST BOOK – Page 8
HYMN
CLXIL The Horse.
1.
SLIGHT us not Varuna, Aryaman, or Mitra, Rbhuksan, Indra, Ayu, or the Maruts,
When we declare amid the congregation the virtues of the strong Steed, God-descended.
When we declare amid the congregation the virtues of the strong Steed, God-descended.
2. What
time they bear before the Courser, covered with trappings and with wealth, the
grasped oblation,
The dappled goat goeth straightforward, bleating, to the place dear to Indra and to Pusan.
The dappled goat goeth straightforward, bleating, to the place dear to Indra and to Pusan.
3. Dear.
to all Gods, this goat, the share of Pusan, is first led forward with the
vigorous Courser,
While Tvastar sends him forward with the Charger, acceptable for sacrifice, to glory.
While Tvastar sends him forward with the Charger, acceptable for sacrifice, to glory.
4. When
thrice the men lead round the Steed, in order, who goeth to the Gods as meet
oblation,
The goat precedeth him, the share of Pusan, and to the Gods the sacrifice announceth.
The goat precedeth him, the share of Pusan, and to the Gods the sacrifice announceth.
5.
Invoker, ministering priest, atoner, fire-kindler Soma-presser, sage, reciter,
With this well ordered sacrifice, well finished, do ye fill full the channels of the rivers.
With this well ordered sacrifice, well finished, do ye fill full the channels of the rivers.
6. The
hewers of the post and those who carry it, and those who carve the knob to deck
the Horse’s stake;
Those who prepare the cooking-vessels for the Steed,-may the approving help of these promote our work.
Those who prepare the cooking-vessels for the Steed,-may the approving help of these promote our work.
7.
Forth, for the regions of the Gods, the Charger with his smooth back is come my
prayer attends him.
In him rejoice the singers and the sages. A good friend have we won for the Gods’ banquet.
In him rejoice the singers and the sages. A good friend have we won for the Gods’ banquet.
8. May
the fleet Courser’s halter and his heel-ropes, the head-stall and the girths
and cords about him.
And the grass put within his mouth to bait him,-among the Gods, too, let all these be with thee.
And the grass put within his mouth to bait him,-among the Gods, too, let all these be with thee.
9. What
part of the Steed’s flesh the fly hath eaten, or is left sticking to the post
or hatchet,
Or to the slayer’s hands and nails adhereth,-among the Gods, too, may all this be with thee.
Or to the slayer’s hands and nails adhereth,-among the Gods, too, may all this be with thee.
10. Food
undigested steaming from his belly, and any odour of raw flesh remaining,
This let the immolators set in order and dress the sacrifice with perfect cooking.
This let the immolators set in order and dress the sacrifice with perfect cooking.
11. What
from thy body which with fire is roasted, when thou art set upon the spit,
distilleth,
Let not that lie on earth or grass neglected, but to the longing Gods let all be offered.
Let not that lie on earth or grass neglected, but to the longing Gods let all be offered.
12. They
who observing that the Horse is ready call out and say, the smell is good;
remove it;
And, craving meat, await the distribution, -may their approving help promote labour.
And, craving meat, await the distribution, -may their approving help promote labour.
13. The
trial-fork of the flesh-cooking caldron, the vessels out of which the broth is
sprinkled,
The warming-pots, the covers of the dishes, hooks, carving-boards,-all these attend the Charger.
The warming-pots, the covers of the dishes, hooks, carving-boards,-all these attend the Charger.
14. The
starting-place, his place of rest and rolling, the ropes wherewith the
Charger’s feet were fastened,
The water that he drank, the food he tasted, -among the Gods, too, may all these attend thee.
The water that he drank, the food he tasted, -among the Gods, too, may all these attend thee.
15. Let
not the fire, smoke-scented, make thee crackle, nor glowing caldron smell and
break to pieces.
Offered, beloved, approved, and consecrated,-such Charger do the Gods accept with favour.
Offered, beloved, approved, and consecrated,-such Charger do the Gods accept with favour.
16. The
robe they spread upon the Horse to clothe him, the upper covering and the
golden trappings,
The halters which restrain the Steed, the heel-ropes,-all these, as grateful to the Gods, they offer.
The halters which restrain the Steed, the heel-ropes,-all these, as grateful to the Gods, they offer.
17. If
one, when seated, with excessive urging hath with his heel or with his whip distressed
thee,
All these thy woes, as with the oblations’ ladle at sacrifices, with my prayer I banish.
All these thy woes, as with the oblations’ ladle at sacrifices, with my prayer I banish.
18. The
four-and-thirty ribs of the. Swift Charger, kin to the Gods, the slayer’s
hatchet pierces.
Cut ye with skill, so that the parts be flawless, and piece by piece declaring them dissect them.
Cut ye with skill, so that the parts be flawless, and piece by piece declaring them dissect them.
19. Of
Tvastar’s Charger there is one dissector,-this is the custom-two there are who
guide him.
Such of his limbs as I divide in order, these, amid the balls, in fire I offer.
Such of his limbs as I divide in order, these, amid the balls, in fire I offer.
20. Let
not thy dear soul burn thee as thou comest, let not the hatchet linger in thy
body.
Let not a greedy clumsy immolator, missing the joints, mangle thy limbs unduly.
Let not a greedy clumsy immolator, missing the joints, mangle thy limbs unduly.
21. No,
here thou diest not, thou art not injured: by easy paths unto the Gods thou
goest.
Both Bays, both spotted mares are now thy fellows, and to the ass’s pole is yoked the Charger.
Both Bays, both spotted mares are now thy fellows, and to the ass’s pole is yoked the Charger.
22. May
this Steed bring us all-sustaining riches, wealth in good kine,good horses,
manly offspring.
Freedom from sin may Aditi vouchsafe us: the Steed with our oblations gain us lordship!
HYMN CLXIII. The Horse.
Freedom from sin may Aditi vouchsafe us: the Steed with our oblations gain us lordship!
HYMN CLXIII. The Horse.
1. WHAT
time, first springing into life, thou neighedst, proceeding from the sea or
upper waters,
Limbs of the deer hadst thou, and eagle pinions. O Steed, thy birth is nigh and must be lauded.
Limbs of the deer hadst thou, and eagle pinions. O Steed, thy birth is nigh and must be lauded.
2. This
Steed which Yama gave hath Trita harnessed, and him, the first of all, hath
Indra mounted.
His bridle the Gandharva grasped. O Vasus, from out the Sun ye fashioned forth the Courser.
His bridle the Gandharva grasped. O Vasus, from out the Sun ye fashioned forth the Courser.
3. Yama
art thou, O Horse; thou art Aditya; Trita art thou by secret operation.
Thou art divided thoroughly from Soma. They say thou hast three bonds in heaven
that hold thee.
Thou art divided thoroughly from Soma. They say thou hast three bonds in heaven
that hold thee.
4. Three
bonds, they say, thou hast in heaven that bind thee, three in the waters,
three within the ocean.
To me thou seernest Varuna , O Courser, there where they say is thy sublimest birth-place.
three within the ocean.
To me thou seernest Varuna , O Courser, there where they say is thy sublimest birth-place.
5.
Here-, Courser, are the places where they groomed thee, here are the traces of
thy hoofs as winner.
Here have I seen the auspicious reins that guide thee, which those who guard the holy Law keep safely.
Here have I seen the auspicious reins that guide thee, which those who guard the holy Law keep safely.
6.
Thyself from far I recognized in spirit,-a Bird that from below flew through
the heaven.
I saw thy head still soaring, striving upward by paths unsoiled by dust, pleasant to travel.
I saw thy head still soaring, striving upward by paths unsoiled by dust, pleasant to travel.
7. Here
I beheld thy form, matchless in glory, eager to win thee food at the Cow’s
station.
Whene’er a man brings thee to thine enjoyment, thou swallowest the plants most greedy eater.
Whene’er a man brings thee to thine enjoyment, thou swallowest the plants most greedy eater.
8. After
thee, Courser, come the car, the bridegroom, the kine come after, and the charm
of maidens.
Full companies have followed for thy friendship: the pattern of thy vigour Gods have copied.
Full companies have followed for thy friendship: the pattern of thy vigour Gods have copied.
9. Horns
made of gold hath he: his feet are iron: less fleet than he, though swift as
thought, is Indra.
The Gods have come that they may taste the oblation of him who mounted, first of all, the Courser.
The Gods have come that they may taste the oblation of him who mounted, first of all, the Courser.
10.
Symmetrical in flank, with rounded haunches, mettled like heroes, the Celestial
Coursers
Put forth their strength, like swans in lengthened order, when they, the Steeds, have reached the heavenly causeway.
Put forth their strength, like swans in lengthened order, when they, the Steeds, have reached the heavenly causeway.
11. A
body formed for flight hast thou, O Charger; swift as the wind in motion is thy
spirit.
Thy horns are spread abroad in all directions: they move with restless beat in wildernesses.
Thy horns are spread abroad in all directions: they move with restless beat in wildernesses.
12. The
strong Steed hath come forward to the slaughter, pondering with a mind directed
God-ward.
The goat who is his kin is led before him the sages and the singers follow after.
The goat who is his kin is led before him the sages and the singers follow after.
13. The
Steed is come unto the noblest mansion, is come unto his Father and his Mother.
This day shall he approach the Gods, most welcome: then he declares good gifts to him who offers
This day shall he approach the Gods, most welcome: then he declares good gifts to him who offers
HYMN
CLXIV. Visvedevas.
1. OF
this benignant Priest, with eld grey-coloured, the brother midmost of the three
is lightning.
The third is he whose back with oil is sprinkled. Here I behold the Chief with seven male children.
The third is he whose back with oil is sprinkled. Here I behold the Chief with seven male children.
2. Seven
to the one-wheeled chariot yoke the Courser; bearing seven names the single
Courser draws it.
Three-naved the wheel is, sound and undecaying, whereon are resting all these worlds of being.
Three-naved the wheel is, sound and undecaying, whereon are resting all these worlds of being.
3. The
seven who on the seven-wheeled car are mounted have horses, seven in tale, who
draw them onward.
Seven Sisters utter songs of praise together, in whom the names of the seven Cows are treasured.
Seven Sisters utter songs of praise together, in whom the names of the seven Cows are treasured.
4. Who
hath beheld him as he sprang to being, seen how the boneless One supports the
bony?
Where is the blood of earth, the life, the spirit? Who may approach the man who knows, to ask it?
Where is the blood of earth, the life, the spirit? Who may approach the man who knows, to ask it?
5.
Unripe in mind, in spirit undiscerning, I ask of these the Gods’ established
places; For up above the yearling Calf the sages, to form a web, their own
seven threads have woven.
6. I
ask, unknowing, those who know, the sages, as one all ignorant for sake of
knowledge,
What was that ONE who in the Unborn’s image hath stablished and fixed firm these worlds’ six regions.
What was that ONE who in the Unborn’s image hath stablished and fixed firm these worlds’ six regions.
7. Let
him who knoweth presently declare it , this lovely Bird’s securely founded
station.
Forth from his head the Cows draw milk, and, wearing his vesture, with their foot have drunk the water.
Forth from his head the Cows draw milk, and, wearing his vesture, with their foot have drunk the water.
8. The
Mother gave the Sire his share of Order: with thought, at first, she wedded him
in spirit.
She, the coy Dame, was filled with dew prolific: with adoration men approached to praise her.
She, the coy Dame, was filled with dew prolific: with adoration men approached to praise her.
9. Yoked
was the Mother to the boon Cow’s car-pole: in the dank rows of cloud the Infant
rested.
Then the Calf lowed, and looked upon the Mother, the Cow who wears all shapes in three directions.
Then the Calf lowed, and looked upon the Mother, the Cow who wears all shapes in three directions.
10.
Bearing three Mothers and three Fathers, single he stood erect: they never make
him weary.
There on the pitch of heaven they speak together in speech all-knowing but not all-impelling.
There on the pitch of heaven they speak together in speech all-knowing but not all-impelling.
11.
Formed with twelve spokes, by length of time, unweakened, rolls round the
heaven this wheel of during Order.
Herein established, joined in pairs together, seven hundred Sons and twenty stand, O Agni.
Herein established, joined in pairs together, seven hundred Sons and twenty stand, O Agni.
12. They
call him in the farther half of heaven the Sire five-footed, of twelve forms,
wealthy in watery store.
These others say that he, God with far-seeing eyes, is mounted on the lower seven-wheeled, six-spoked car.
These others say that he, God with far-seeing eyes, is mounted on the lower seven-wheeled, six-spoked car.
13. Upon
this five-spoked wheel revolving ever all living creatures rest and are
dependent.
Its axle, heavy-laden, is not heated: the nave from ancient time remains unbroken.
Its axle, heavy-laden, is not heated: the nave from ancient time remains unbroken.
14. The
wheel revolves, unwasting, with its felly: ten draw it, yoked to the
far-stretching car-pole.
The Sun’s eye moves encompassed by the region: on him dependent rest all living creatures.
The Sun’s eye moves encompassed by the region: on him dependent rest all living creatures.
15. Of
the co-born they call the seventh single-born; the six twin pairs are called
Rsis, Children of Gods.
Their good gifts sought of men are ranged in order due, and various in their form move for the Lord who guides.
Their good gifts sought of men are ranged in order due, and various in their form move for the Lord who guides.
16. They
told me these were males, though truly females: he who hath eyes sees this, the
blind discerns not.
The son who is a sage hath comprehended: who knows this rightly is his father’s father.
The son who is a sage hath comprehended: who knows this rightly is his father’s father.
17.
Beneath the upper realm, above this lower, bearing her calf at foot the Cow
hath risen.
Witherward, to what place hath she departed? Where calves she? Not amid this herd of cattle.
Witherward, to what place hath she departed? Where calves she? Not amid this herd of cattle.
18. Who,
that the father of this Calf discerneth beneath the upper realm, above the
lower,
Showing himself a sage, may here declare it? Whence hath the Godlike spirit had its rising?
Showing himself a sage, may here declare it? Whence hath the Godlike spirit had its rising?
19.
Those that come hitherward they call departing, those that depart they call
directed hither.
And what so ye have made, Indra and Soma, steeds bear as ’twere yoked to the region’s car-pole.
And what so ye have made, Indra and Soma, steeds bear as ’twere yoked to the region’s car-pole.
20. Two
Birds with fair wings, knit with bonds of friendship, in the same sheltering
tree have found a refuge.
One of the twain eats the sweet Fig-tree’s fruitage; the other eating not regardeth only.
One of the twain eats the sweet Fig-tree’s fruitage; the other eating not regardeth only.
21.
Where those fine Birds hymn ceaselessly their portion of life eternal, and the
sacred synods,
There is the Universe’s mighty Keeper, who, wise, hath entered into me the simple.
There is the Universe’s mighty Keeper, who, wise, hath entered into me the simple.
22. The,
tree whereon the fine Birds eat the sweetness, where they all rest and
procreate their offspring,-
Upon its top they say the fig is luscious none gaineth it who knoweth not the Father.
Upon its top they say the fig is luscious none gaineth it who knoweth not the Father.
23. How
on the Gayatri. the Gayatri was based, how from the Tristup they fashioned the
Tristup forth,
How on the Jagati was based the Jagati,- they who know this have won themselves immortal life.
How on the Jagati was based the Jagati,- they who know this have won themselves immortal life.
24. With
Gayatri he measures out the praise-song, Sama with praise-song, triplet with
the Tristup.
The triplet witli the two or four-foot measure, and with the syllable they form seven metres.
The triplet witli the two or four-foot measure, and with the syllable they form seven metres.
25. With
Jagati the flood in heaven he stablished, and saw the Sun in the Rathantara
Saman.
Gavatri hath, they say, three brands for kindling: hence it excels in majesty and vigour.
Gavatri hath, they say, three brands for kindling: hence it excels in majesty and vigour.
26. I
invocate the milch-cow good for milking so that the milker, deft of hand, may
drain her.
May Savitar give goodliest stimulation. The caldron is made hot; I will proclaim it.
May Savitar give goodliest stimulation. The caldron is made hot; I will proclaim it.
27. She,
lady of all treasure, is come hither yearning in spirit for her calf and
lowing.
May this cow yield her milk for both the Asvins, and may she prosper to our high advantage.
May this cow yield her milk for both the Asvins, and may she prosper to our high advantage.
28. The
cow hath lowed after her blinking youngling; she licks his forehead, as she
lows, to form it.
His mouth she fondly calls to her warm udder, and suckles him with milk while gently lowing.
His mouth she fondly calls to her warm udder, and suckles him with milk while gently lowing.
29. He
also snorts, by whom encompassed round the Cow laws as she clings unto the
shedder of the rain.
She with her shrilling cries hath humbled mortal man, and, turned to lightning, hath stripped off her covering robe.
She with her shrilling cries hath humbled mortal man, and, turned to lightning, hath stripped off her covering robe.
30. That
which hath breath and speed and life and motion lies firmly stablished in the
midst of houses.
Living, by offerings to the Dead he moveth Immortal One, the brother of the mortal.
Living, by offerings to the Dead he moveth Immortal One, the brother of the mortal.
31. I
saw the Herdsman, him who never stumbles, approaching by his pathways and departing.
He, clothed with gathered and diffusive splendour, within the worlds continually travels.
He, clothed with gathered and diffusive splendour, within the worlds continually travels.
32. He
who hath made him cloth not comprehend him: from him who saw him surely is he
hidden.
He, yet enveloped in his Mother’s bosom, source of much life, hath sunk into destruction.
He, yet enveloped in his Mother’s bosom, source of much life, hath sunk into destruction.
33.
Dyaus is my Father, my begetter: kinship is here. This great earth is my kin
and Mother.
Between the wide-spread world-halves is the birthb-place: the Father laid the Daughter’s germ within it.
Between the wide-spread world-halves is the birthb-place: the Father laid the Daughter’s germ within it.
34. I
ask thee of the earth’s extremest limit, where is the centre of the world, I
ask
thee. I ask thee of the Stallion’s seed prolific, I ask of highest heaven where Speech abideth.
thee. I ask thee of the Stallion’s seed prolific, I ask of highest heaven where Speech abideth.
35. This
altar is the earth’s extremest limit; this sacrifice of ours is the world’s
centre.
The Stallion’s seed prolific is the Soma; this Brahman highest heaven where Speech abideth.
The Stallion’s seed prolific is the Soma; this Brahman highest heaven where Speech abideth.
36.
Seven germs unripened yet are heaven’s prolific, seed: their functions they
maintain by Visnu’s ordinance.
Endued with wisdom through intelligence and thought, they compass us about present on every side.
Endued with wisdom through intelligence and thought, they compass us about present on every side.
37. What
thing I truly am I know not clearly: mysterious, fettered in my mind I wander.
When the first-born of holy Law approached me, then of this speech I first obtain a portion.
When the first-born of holy Law approached me, then of this speech I first obtain a portion.
38.
Back, forward goes he, grasped by strength inherent, the Immortal born the
brother of the mortal
Ceaseless they movelnopposite directions: men mark the one, and fail to mark the other.
Ceaseless they movelnopposite directions: men mark the one, and fail to mark the other.
39. Upon
what syllable of holy praise-song, as twere their highest heaven, the Gods
repose them,-
Who knows not this, what will he do with praise-song? But they who know it well sit here assembled.
Who knows not this, what will he do with praise-song? But they who know it well sit here assembled.
40.
Forunate mayst thou be with goodly pasture, and may we also be exceeding
wealthy.
Feed on the grass, O Cow, at every season, and coming hitherward drink limpid water.
Feed on the grass, O Cow, at every season, and coming hitherward drink limpid water.
41.
Forming the water-floods, the buffalo hath lowed, one-footed or two-footed or
four-
footed, she, Who hath become eight-footed or hath got nine feet, the thou sand-syllabled in the sublimest heaven.
footed, she, Who hath become eight-footed or hath got nine feet, the thou sand-syllabled in the sublimest heaven.
42. From
her descend in streams the seas of water; thereby the world’s four regions have
their being,
Thence flows the imperishable flood and thence the universe hath life.
Thence flows the imperishable flood and thence the universe hath life.
43. I
saw from far away the smoke of fuel with spires that rose on high o’er that
beneath it.
The Mighty Men have dressed the spotted bullock. These were the customs in the days aforetime,
The Mighty Men have dressed the spotted bullock. These were the customs in the days aforetime,
44.
Three with long tresses show in ordered season. One of them sheareth when the
year is ended.
One with his powers the universe regardeth: Of one, the sweep is seen, but his figure.
One with his powers the universe regardeth: Of one, the sweep is seen, but his figure.
45.
Speech hath been measured out in four divisions, the Brahmans who have
understanding know them.
Three kept in close concealment cause no motion; of speech, men speak only the fourth division.
Three kept in close concealment cause no motion; of speech, men speak only the fourth division.
46. They
call him Indra, Mitra, Varuna, Agni, and he is heavenly nobly-winged Garutman.
To what is One, sages give many a title they call it Agni, Yama, Matarisvan.
To what is One, sages give many a title they call it Agni, Yama, Matarisvan.
47. Dark
the descent: the birds are golden-coloured; up to the heaven they fly robed in
the waters.
Again descend they from the seat of Order, and all the earth is moistened with their fatness.
Again descend they from the seat of Order, and all the earth is moistened with their fatness.
48.
Twelve are the fellies, and the wheel is single; three are the naves. What man
hath understood it?
Therein are set together spokes three hundred and sixty, which in nowise can be loosened.
Therein are set together spokes three hundred and sixty, which in nowise can be loosened.
49. That
breast of thine exhaustless, spring of pleasure, wherewith thou feedest all
things that are choicest,
Wealth-giver, treasure. finder, free bestower,-bring that, Sarasvati, that we may drain it.
Wealth-giver, treasure. finder, free bestower,-bring that, Sarasvati, that we may drain it.
50. By
means of sacrifice the Gods accomplished their sacrifice: these were the
earliest ordinances.
These Mighty Ones attained the height of heaven, there where the Sadhyas, Gods of old, are dwelling.
These Mighty Ones attained the height of heaven, there where the Sadhyas, Gods of old, are dwelling.
51.
Uniform, with the passing days, this water mounts and fails again.
The tempest-clouds give life to earth, and fires re-animate the heaven.
52 The Bird Celestial, vast with noble pinion, the lovely germ of plants, the germ of waters,
Him who delighteth us with rain in season, Sarasvan I invoke that he may help us.
HYMN CLXV. Indra. Maruts.
The tempest-clouds give life to earth, and fires re-animate the heaven.
52 The Bird Celestial, vast with noble pinion, the lovely germ of plants, the germ of waters,
Him who delighteth us with rain in season, Sarasvan I invoke that he may help us.
HYMN CLXV. Indra. Maruts.
1. WITH
what bright beauty are the Maruts jointly invested, peers in age, who dwell
together?
From what place have they come? With what intention? Sing they their strength through love of wealth, these Heroes?
From what place have they come? With what intention? Sing they their strength through love of wealth, these Heroes?
2. Whose
prayers have they, the Youthful Ones, accepted? Who to his sacrifice hath
turned the Maruts?
We will delay them on their journey sweeping-with what high spirit!-through the air like eagles.
We will delay them on their journey sweeping-with what high spirit!-through the air like eagles.
3.
Whence comest thou alone, thou who art mighty, Indra, Lord of the Brave? What
is thy purpose?
Thou greetest us when meeting us the Bright Ones. Lord of Bay Steeds, say what thou hast against us.
Thou greetest us when meeting us the Bright Ones. Lord of Bay Steeds, say what thou hast against us.
4. Mine
are devotions, hymns; sweet are libations. Strength stirs, and hurled forth is
my bolt of thunder.
They call for me, their lauds are longing for me. These my Bay Steeds bear me to these oblations.
They call for me, their lauds are longing for me. These my Bay Steeds bear me to these oblations.
5.
Therefore together with our strong companions, having adorned our bodies, now
we harness,
Our spotted deer with might, for thou, O Indra, hast learnt and understood our Godlike nature.
Our spotted deer with might, for thou, O Indra, hast learnt and understood our Godlike nature.
6. Where
was that nature then of yours, O Maruts, that ye charged me alone to slay the
Dragon?
For I in truth am fierce and strong and mighty. I bent away from every foeman’s weapons.
For I in truth am fierce and strong and mighty. I bent away from every foeman’s weapons.
7. Yea,
much hast thou achieved with us for comrades, with manly valour like thine own,
thou Hero.
Much may we too achieve, O mightiest Indra, with our great power, we Maruts, when we will it.
Much may we too achieve, O mightiest Indra, with our great power, we Maruts, when we will it.
8. Vrtra
I slew by mine own strength, O Maruts, having waxed mighty in mine indignation.
I with the thunder in my hand created for man these lucid softly flowing waters.
I with the thunder in my hand created for man these lucid softly flowing waters.
9.
Nothing, O Maghavan, stands firm before thee; among the Gods not one is found
thine equal. None born or springing into life comes nigh thee. Do what thou hast to do, exceeding mighty?
thine equal. None born or springing into life comes nigh thee. Do what thou hast to do, exceeding mighty?
10. Mine
only be transcendent power, whatever I, daring in my spirit, may accomplish.
For I am known as terrible, O Maruts I, Indra, am the Lord of what I ruined.
For I am known as terrible, O Maruts I, Indra, am the Lord of what I ruined.
11. Now,
O ye Maruts, hath your praise rejoiced me, the glorious hymn which ye have made
me, Heroes!
For me, for Indra, champion strong in battle, for me, yourselves, as lovers for a lover.
For me, for Indra, champion strong in battle, for me, yourselves, as lovers for a lover.
12.
Here, truly, they send forth their sheen to meet me, wearing their blameless
glory and their vigour.
When I have seen you, Matuts, in gay splendour, ye have delighted me, so now delight me.
When I have seen you, Matuts, in gay splendour, ye have delighted me, so now delight me.
13. Who
here hath magnified you, O ye Maruts? speed forward, O ye lovers, to your
lovers.
Ye Radiant Ones, assisting their devotions, of these my holy rites he ye regardful.
Ye Radiant Ones, assisting their devotions, of these my holy rites he ye regardful.
14. To
this hath Minya’s wisdom brought us, so as to aid, as aids the poet him who
worships.
Bring hither quick! On to the sage, ye Maruts! These prayers for you the singer hath recited.
Bring hither quick! On to the sage, ye Maruts! These prayers for you the singer hath recited.
15. May
this your praise, may this your song, O Maruts, sung by the poet, Mana’s son,
Mandarya,
Bring offspring for ourselves with food to feed us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance!
Bring offspring for ourselves with food to feed us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance!
HYMN
CLXVI. Maruts.
1. Now let
us publish, for the vigorous company the herald of the Strong One, their
primeval might.
With fire upon your way, O Maruts loud of voice, with battle, Mighty Ones, achieve your deeds of strength.
With fire upon your way, O Maruts loud of voice, with battle, Mighty Ones, achieve your deeds of strength.
2.
Bringing the pleasant mcath as ’twere their own dear son, they sport in
sportive wise gay at their gatherings.
The Rudras come with succour to the worshipper; self-strong they fail not him who offers sacrifice.
The Rudras come with succour to the worshipper; self-strong they fail not him who offers sacrifice.
3. To
whomsoever, bringer of oblations, they immortal guardians, have given plenteous
wealth,
For him, like loving friends, the Maruts bringing bliss bedew the regions round with milk abundantly.
For him, like loving friends, the Maruts bringing bliss bedew the regions round with milk abundantly.
4. Ye
who with mighty powers have stirred the regions up, your coursers have sped
forth directed by themselves.
All creatures of the earth, all dwellings are afraid, for brilliant is your coming with your spears advanced.
All creatures of the earth, all dwellings are afraid, for brilliant is your coming with your spears advanced.
5. When
they in dazzling rush have made the mountains roar, and shaken heaven’s high
back in their heroic strength,
Each sovran of the forest fears as ye drive near, aid the shrubs fly before you swift as whirling wheels.
Each sovran of the forest fears as ye drive near, aid the shrubs fly before you swift as whirling wheels.
6.
Terrible Maruts, ye with ne’er-diminished host, with grcat benevolence fulfil
our heart’s desire.
Where’er your lightning bites armed with its gory teeth it crunches up the cattle like a well-aimed dart.
Where’er your lightning bites armed with its gory teeth it crunches up the cattle like a well-aimed dart.
7.
Givers of during gifts whose bounties never fail, free from ill-will, at
sacrifices glorified,
They sing their song aloud that they may drink sweet juice: well do they know the Hero’s first heroic deeds.
They sing their song aloud that they may drink sweet juice: well do they know the Hero’s first heroic deeds.
8. With
castles hundredfold, O Maruts, guard ye well the man whom ye have loved from
ruin and from sin,-
The man whom ye the fierce, the Mighty ones who roar, preserve from calumny by cherishing his seed.
The man whom ye the fierce, the Mighty ones who roar, preserve from calumny by cherishing his seed.
9. O
Maruts, in your cars are all things that are good: great powers are set as
’twere in rivalry therein.
Rings are upon your shoulders when ye journey forth: your axle turns together both the chariot wheels.
Rings are upon your shoulders when ye journey forth: your axle turns together both the chariot wheels.
10. Held
in your manly arms are many goodly things, gold chains are on your chests, and
glistering ornaments,
Deer-skins are on their shoulders, on their fellies knives: they spread their glory out as birds spread out their wings.
Deer-skins are on their shoulders, on their fellies knives: they spread their glory out as birds spread out their wings.
11.
Mighty in mightiness, pervading, passing strong, visible from afar as ’twere
with stars of heaven,
Lovely with pleasant tongues, sweet singers with their mouths, the Maruts, joined with Indra, shout forth all around.
Lovely with pleasant tongues, sweet singers with their mouths, the Maruts, joined with Indra, shout forth all around.
12. This
is your majesty, ye Maruts nobly born, far as the sway of Adid your bounty
spreads.
Even Indra by desertion never disannuls the boon bestowed by you upon the pious man.
Even Indra by desertion never disannuls the boon bestowed by you upon the pious man.
13. This
is your kinship, Maruts, that, Immortals, ye were oft in olden time regardful
of our call,
Having vouchsafed to man a hearing through this prayer, by wondrous deeds the Heroes have displayed their might.
Having vouchsafed to man a hearing through this prayer, by wondrous deeds the Heroes have displayed their might.
14.
That, O ye Maruts, we may long time flourish through your abundant riches, O
swift movers,
And that our men may spread in the encampment, let me complete the rite with these oblations.
And that our men may spread in the encampment, let me complete the rite with these oblations.
15. May
this your laud, may this your song, O Maruts, sung by the poet, Mana’s son,
Mandarya,
Bring offspring for ourselves with food to feed us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXVII. Indra. Maruts.
Bring offspring for ourselves with food to feed us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXVII. Indra. Maruts.
1. A
THOUSAND are thy helps for us, O Indra: a thousand, Lord of Bays, thy choice
refreshments.
Wealth of a thousand sorts hast thou to cheer us: may precious goods come nigh to us in thousands.
Wealth of a thousand sorts hast thou to cheer us: may precious goods come nigh to us in thousands.
2. May
the most sapient Maruts, with protection, with best boons brought from lofty
heaven, approach us,
Now when their team of the most noble horses speeds even on the sea’s extremest limit.
Now when their team of the most noble horses speeds even on the sea’s extremest limit.
3. Close
to them clings one moving in seclusion, like a man’s wife, like a spear carried
rearward,
Well grasped, bright, decked with gold there is Vak also, like to a courtly, eloquent dame, among them.
Well grasped, bright, decked with gold there is Vak also, like to a courtly, eloquent dame, among them.
4. Far
off the brilliant, never-weary Maruts cling to the young Maid as a joint
possession.
The fierce Gods drave not Rodasi before them, but wished for her to grow their friend and fellow.
The fierce Gods drave not Rodasi before them, but wished for her to grow their friend and fellow.
5. When
chose immortal Rodasi to follow- she with loose tresses and heroic spirit-
She climbed her servant’s chariot, she like Surya with cloud-like motion and refulgent aspect.
She climbed her servant’s chariot, she like Surya with cloud-like motion and refulgent aspect.
6. Upon
their car the young men set the Maiden wedded to glory, mighty in assemblies,
When your song, Maruts, rose, and, with oblation, the Soma-pourer sang his hymn in worship.
When your song, Maruts, rose, and, with oblation, the Soma-pourer sang his hymn in worship.
7. I
will declare the greatness of these Maruts, their real greatness, worthy to be
lauded,
How, with them, she though firm, strong-minded, haughty, travels to women happy in their fortune.
How, with them, she though firm, strong-minded, haughty, travels to women happy in their fortune.
8. Mitra
and Varuna they guard from censure: Aryaman too, discovers worthless sinners
Firm things are overthrown that ne’er were shaken: he prospers, Maruts, who
gives choice oblations.
9. None
of us, Maruts, near or at a distance, hath ever reached the limit of your
vigour.
They in courageous might still waxing boldly have compassed round their foemen like an ocean.
They in courageous might still waxing boldly have compassed round their foemen like an ocean.
10. May
we this day be dearest friends of Indra, and let us call on him in fight
to-morrow.
So were we erst. New might attend us daily! So be with us! Rbhuksan of the Heroes!
So were we erst. New might attend us daily! So be with us! Rbhuksan of the Heroes!
11. May
this your laud, may this your song, O Maruts, sung by the poet, Mana’s
son, Mandarya,
Bring offspring for ourselves with. food to feed us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXVIII. Maruts.
son, Mandarya,
Bring offspring for ourselves with. food to feed us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXVIII. Maruts.
1. SWIFT
gain is his who hath you near at every rite: ye welcome every song of himwho
serves the Gods.
So may I turn you hither with fair hymns of praise to give great succour for the weal of both the worlds.
So may I turn you hither with fair hymns of praise to give great succour for the weal of both the worlds.
2.
Surrounding, as it were, self-born, self-powerful, they spring to life the
shakers-down of food and light;
Like as the countess undulations of the floods, worthy of praise when near, like bullocks and like kine.
Like as the countess undulations of the floods, worthy of praise when near, like bullocks and like kine.
3. They
who, like Somas with their well-grown stalks pressed out, imbibed within the
heart, dwell there in friendly wise.
Upon their shoulders rests as ’twere a warrior’s spear and in their hand they hold a dagger and a ring.
Upon their shoulders rests as ’twere a warrior’s spear and in their hand they hold a dagger and a ring.
4. Self-yoked
they have descended lightly from the sky. With your own lash, Immortals, urge
yourselve’s to speed.
Unstained by dust the Maruts, mighty in their strength, have cast down e’en firm things, armed with their shining spears.
Unstained by dust the Maruts, mighty in their strength, have cast down e’en firm things, armed with their shining spears.
5. Who
among you, O Maruts armed with lightning-spears, moveth you by himself, as with
the tongue his jaws?
Ye rush from heaven’s floor as though ye sought for food, on many errands like the Sun’s diurnal Steed.
Ye rush from heaven’s floor as though ye sought for food, on many errands like the Sun’s diurnal Steed.
6. Say
where, then, is this mighty region’s farthest bound, where, Maruts, is the
lowest depth that ye have reached,
When ye cast down like chaff the firmly stablished pile, and from the mountain send the glittering water-flood?
When ye cast down like chaff the firmly stablished pile, and from the mountain send the glittering water-flood?
7. Your
winning is with strength, dazzling, with heavenly light, with fruit mature, O
Maruts, fall of plenteousness.
Auspicious is your gift like a free giver’s meed, victorious, spreading far, as of immortal Gods.
Auspicious is your gift like a free giver’s meed, victorious, spreading far, as of immortal Gods.
8. The
rivers roar before your chariot fellies when they are uttering the voice of
rain-clouds.
The lightnings laugh upon the earth beneath them, what time the Maruts scatter forth their fatness.
The lightnings laugh upon the earth beneath them, what time the Maruts scatter forth their fatness.
9. Prani
brought forth, to fight the mighty battle, the glittering army of the restless
Maruts.
Nurtured together they begat the monster, and then looked round them for the food that strengthens.
Nurtured together they begat the monster, and then looked round them for the food that strengthens.
10. May
this your laud, may this your song O Maruts, sung by the poet Mana’s son,
Mandarya,
Bring offspring for ourselves with food to feed us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXIX. Indra.
Mandarya,
Bring offspring for ourselves with food to feed us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXIX. Indra.
1. As,
Indra, from great treason thou protectest, yea, from great treachery these who
approach us,
So, marking well, Controller of the Maruts grant us their blessings, for they are thy dearest.
So, marking well, Controller of the Maruts grant us their blessings, for they are thy dearest.
2. The
various doings of all mortal people by thee are ordered, in thy wisdom, Indra.
The host of Marutg goeth forth exulting to win the light-bestowing spoil of battle.
The host of Marutg goeth forth exulting to win the light-bestowing spoil of battle.
3. That
spear of thine sat firm for us, O Indra: the Maruts set their whole dread power
in motion.
E’en Agni shines resplendent in the brush-wood: the viands hold him as floods hold an island.
E’en Agni shines resplendent in the brush-wood: the viands hold him as floods hold an island.
4.
Vouchsafe us now that opulence, O Indra, as guerdon won by mightiest donation.
May hymns that please thee cause the breast of Vayu to swell as with the mead’s refreshing sweetness.
May hymns that please thee cause the breast of Vayu to swell as with the mead’s refreshing sweetness.
5. With
thee, O Indra, are most bounteous riches that further every one who lives
uprightly.
Now may these Maruts show us loving-kindness, Gods who of old were ever prompt to help us.
Now may these Maruts show us loving-kindness, Gods who of old were ever prompt to help us.
6. Bring
forth the Men who rain down boons, O Indra: exert thee in the great terrestrial
region;
For their broad-chested speckled deer are standing like a King’s armies on the field of battle.
For their broad-chested speckled deer are standing like a King’s armies on the field of battle.
7. Heard
is the roar of the advancing Maruts, terrific, glittering, and swiftly moving,
Who with their rush o’erthrow as ’twere a sinner the mortal who would fight with those who love him
Who with their rush o’erthrow as ’twere a sinner the mortal who would fight with those who love him
8. Give
to the Manas, Indra with Maruts, gifts universal, gifts of cattle foremost.
Thou, God, art praised with Gods who must be lauded. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXX. Indra. Maruts.
Thou, God, art praised with Gods who must be lauded. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXX. Indra. Maruts.
1.
NAUGHT is to-day, to-morrow naught. Who comprehends the mystery?
We must address ourselves unto another’s thought, and lost is then the hope we formed.
We must address ourselves unto another’s thought, and lost is then the hope we formed.
2. The
Maruts are thy brothers. Why, O Indra, wouldst thou take our lives?
Agree with them in friendly wise, and do not slay us in the fight.
Agree with them in friendly wise, and do not slay us in the fight.
3.
Agastya, brother, why dost thou neglect us, thou who art our friend?
We know the nature of thy mind. Verity thou wilt give us naught.
We know the nature of thy mind. Verity thou wilt give us naught.
4. Let
them prepare the altar, let them kindle fire in front: we two
Here will spread sacrifice for thee, that the Immortal may observe.
Here will spread sacrifice for thee, that the Immortal may observe.
5. Thou,
Lord of Wealth, art Master of all treasures, thou, Lord of friends, art thy
friends’ best supporter.
O Indra, speak thou kindly with the Maruts, and taste oblations in their proper season.
HYMN CLXXI. Maruts.
friends’ best supporter.
O Indra, speak thou kindly with the Maruts, and taste oblations in their proper season.
HYMN CLXXI. Maruts.
1. To
you I come with this mine adoration, and with a hymn I crave the Strong Ones’
favour
A hymn that truly makes you joyful, Maruts. Suppress your anger and unyoke your horses.
A hymn that truly makes you joyful, Maruts. Suppress your anger and unyoke your horses.
2.
Maruts, to you this laud with prayer and worship, formed in the mind and heart,
ye Gods, is offered.
Come ye to us, rejoicing in your spirit, for ye are they who make our prayer effective.
Come ye to us, rejoicing in your spirit, for ye are they who make our prayer effective.
3. The
Maruts, praised by us, shall show us favour; Maghavan, lauded, shall be most
propitious.
Maruts,, may all our days that are to follow be very pleasant, lovely and triumphant.
Maruts,, may all our days that are to follow be very pleasant, lovely and triumphant.
4. I
fled in terrror from this mighty Indra, my body trembling in alarm, O Maruts.
Oblations meant for you had been made ready; these have we set aside: for this forgive us.
Oblations meant for you had been made ready; these have we set aside: for this forgive us.
5. By
whom the Manas recognize the day-springs, by whose strength at the dawn of
endless mornings,
Give us, thou Mighty, glory with Maruts. fierce with the fierce, the Strong who givest triumph.
Give us, thou Mighty, glory with Maruts. fierce with the fierce, the Strong who givest triumph.
6. Do
thou, O Indra, guard the conquering Heroes, and rid thee of thy wrath against
the Maruts,
With them, the wise, victorious and bestowing. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
With them, the wise, victorious and bestowing. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN
CLXXII. Maruts.
1.
WONDERFUL let your coming be, wondrous with help, ye Bounteous Ones,
Maruts, who gleam as serpents gleam.
Maruts, who gleam as serpents gleam.
2. Far
be from us, O Maruts, ye free givers, your impetuous shaft;
Far from us be the stone ye hurl.
Far from us be the stone ye hurl.
3. O
Bounteous Givers, touch ye not, O Maruts, Trnskanda’s folk;
Lift ye us up that we may live.
HYMN CLXXIII. Indra.
Lift ye us up that we may live.
HYMN CLXXIII. Indra.
1. THE
praise-song let him sing forth bursting bird-like: sing we that hymn which like
heaven’s light expandeth,
That the milk-giving cows may, unimpeded call to the sacred grass the Gods’ assembly.
That the milk-giving cows may, unimpeded call to the sacred grass the Gods’ assembly.
2. Let
the Bull sing with Bulls whose toil is worship, with a loud roar like some wild
beast that hungers.
Praised God! the glad priest brings his heart’s devotion; the holy youth presents twofold oblation.
Praised God! the glad priest brings his heart’s devotion; the holy youth presents twofold oblation.
3. May
the Priest come circling the measured stations, and with him bring the earth’s
autumnal fruitage.
Let the Horse neigh led near, let the Steer bellow: let the Voice go between both worlds as herald,
Let the Horse neigh led near, let the Steer bellow: let the Voice go between both worlds as herald,
4. To
him we offer welcomest oblations, the pious bring their strength-inspiring
praises.
May Indra, wondrous in his might, accept them, car-borne and swift to move like the Nasatyas.
May Indra, wondrous in his might, accept them, car-borne and swift to move like the Nasatyas.
5.
Praise thou that Indra who is truly mighty, the car-borne Warrior, Maghavan the
Hero;
Stronger in war than those who fight against him, borne by strong steeds, who kills enclosing darkness;
Stronger in war than those who fight against him, borne by strong steeds, who kills enclosing darkness;
6. Him
who surpasses heroes in his greatness: the earth and heavens suffice not for
his girdles.
Indra endues the earth to be his garment, and, God-like, wears the heaven as ’twere a frontlet,
Indra endues the earth to be his garment, and, God-like, wears the heaven as ’twere a frontlet,
7. Thee,
Hero, guardian of the brave in battles, who roamest in the van,-to draw thee
hither,
Indra, the hosts agree beside the Soma, and joy, for his great actions, in the Chieftain.
Indra, the hosts agree beside the Soma, and joy, for his great actions, in the Chieftain.
8.
Libations in the sea to thee are pleasant, when thy divine Floods come to cheer
these people.
To thee the Cow is sum of all things grateful when with the wish thou seekest men and princes.
To thee the Cow is sum of all things grateful when with the wish thou seekest men and princes.
9. So
may we in this One be well befriended, well aided as it were through praise of
chieftains,
That Indra still may linger at our worship, as one led swift to work, to hear our praises.
That Indra still may linger at our worship, as one led swift to work, to hear our praises.
10. Like
men in rivalry extolling princes, our Friend be Indra, wielder of the thunder.
Like true friends of some city’s lord within them held in good rule with sacrifice they help him.
Like true friends of some city’s lord within them held in good rule with sacrifice they help him.
11. For
every sacrifice makes Indra stronger, yea, when he goes around angry in spirit;
As pleasure at the ford invites the thirsty, as the long way brings him who gains his object.
As pleasure at the ford invites the thirsty, as the long way brings him who gains his object.
12. Let
us not here contend with Gods, O Indra, for here, O Mighty One, is thine own
portion,
The Great, whose Friends the bounteous Maruts honour, as with a stream, his song who pours oblations.
The Great, whose Friends the bounteous Maruts honour, as with a stream, his song who pours oblations.
13.
Addressed to thee is this our praise, O Indra: Lord of Bay Steeds, find us
hereby advancement.
So mayst thou lead us on, O God, to comfort. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXIV. Indra.
So mayst thou lead us on, O God, to comfort. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXIV. Indra.
1. THOU
art the King of all the Gods, O Indra: protect the men, O Asura, preserve us.
Thou Lord of Heroes, Maghavan, our saver, art faithful, very rich, the victory-giver.
Thou Lord of Heroes, Maghavan, our saver, art faithful, very rich, the victory-giver.
2.
Indra, thou humbledst tribes that spake with insult by breaking down seven
autumn forts, their refuge.
Thou stirredst, Blameless! billowy floods, and gavest his foe a prey to youthful Purukutsa.
Thou stirredst, Blameless! billowy floods, and gavest his foe a prey to youthful Purukutsa.
3. With
whom thou drivest troops whose lords are heroes, and bringest daylight now,
much worshipped Indra,
With them guard lion-like wasting active Agni to dwell in our tilled fields and in our homestead.
With them guard lion-like wasting active Agni to dwell in our tilled fields and in our homestead.
4. They
through the greatness of thy spear, O Indra, shall, to thy praise, rest in this
earthly station.
To loose the floods, to seek, for kine, the battle, his Bays he mounted boldly seized the booty.
To loose the floods, to seek, for kine, the battle, his Bays he mounted boldly seized the booty.
5.
Indra, bear Kutsa, him in whom thou joyest: the dark-red horses of the Wind are
docile.
Let the Sun roll his chariot wheel anear us, and let the Thunderer go to meet the foemen.
Let the Sun roll his chariot wheel anear us, and let the Thunderer go to meet the foemen.
6. Thou
Indra, Lord of Bays, made strong by impulse, hast slain the vexers of thy
friends, who give not.
They who beheld the Friend beside the living were cast aside by thee as they rode onward.
They who beheld the Friend beside the living were cast aside by thee as they rode onward.
7.
Indra, the bard sang forth in inspiration: thou madest earth a covering for the
Dasa.
Maghavan made the three that gleam with moisture, and to his home brought Kuyavac to slay him.
Maghavan made the three that gleam with moisture, and to his home brought Kuyavac to slay him.
8. These
thine old deeds new bards have sung, O Indra. Thou conqueredst, boundest many
tribes for ever.
Like castles thou hast crushed the godless races, and bowed the godless scorner’s deadly weapon.
Like castles thou hast crushed the godless races, and bowed the godless scorner’s deadly weapon.
9. A
Stormer thou hast made the stormy waters flow down, O Indra, like the running
rivers.
When o’er the flood thou broughtest them, O Hero, thou keptest Turvaga and Yadu safely.
When o’er the flood thou broughtest them, O Hero, thou keptest Turvaga and Yadu safely.
10.
Indra, mayst thou be ours in all occasions, protector of the men, most
gentle-hearted,
Giving us victory over all our rivals. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXV. Indra.
Giving us victory over all our rivals. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXV. Indra.
1. GLAD
thee: thy glory hath been quaffed, Lord of Bay Steeds, as ’twere the bowl’s
enlivening mead.
For thee the Strong there is strong drink, mighty, omnipotent to win.
For thee the Strong there is strong drink, mighty, omnipotent to win.
2. Let
our strong drink, most excellent, exhilarating, come to thee,
Victorious, Indra1 bringing gain, immortal conquering in fight,
Victorious, Indra1 bringing gain, immortal conquering in fight,
3. Thou,
Hero, winner of the spoil, urgest to speed the car of man.
Burn, like a vessel with the flame, the lawless Dasyu, Conqueror!
Burn, like a vessel with the flame, the lawless Dasyu, Conqueror!
4.
Empowered by thine own might, O Sage, thou stolest Sarya’s chariot wheel.
Thou barest Kutsa with the steeds of Wind to Susna as his death.
Thou barest Kutsa with the steeds of Wind to Susna as his death.
5. Most
mighty is thy rapturous joy, most splendid is thine active power,
Wherewith, foe-slaying, sending bliss, thou art supreme in gaining steeds.
Wherewith, foe-slaying, sending bliss, thou art supreme in gaining steeds.
6. As
thou, O Indra, to the ancient singers wast ever joy, as water to the thirsty,
So unto thee I sing this invocation. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXVI. Indra.
So unto thee I sing this invocation. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXVI. Indra.
1. CHEER
thee with draughts to win us bliss: Soma, pierce Indra in thy strength.
Thou stormest trembling in thy rage, and findest not a foeman nigh.
Thou stormest trembling in thy rage, and findest not a foeman nigh.
2. Make
our songs penetrate to him who is the Only One of men;
For whom the sacred food is spread, as the steer ploughs the barley in.
For whom the sacred food is spread, as the steer ploughs the barley in.
3.
Within whose hands deposited all the Five Peoples’ treasures rest.
Mark thou the man who injures us and kill him like the heavenly bolt.
Mark thou the man who injures us and kill him like the heavenly bolt.
4 Slay
everyone who pours no gift, who, hard to reach, delights thee not.
Bestow on us what wealth he hath: this even the worshipper awaits.
Bestow on us what wealth he hath: this even the worshipper awaits.
5. Thou
helpest him the doubly strong whose hymns were sung unceasingly.
When Indra fought, O Soma, thou helpest the mighty in the fray.
When Indra fought, O Soma, thou helpest the mighty in the fray.
6. As
thou, O Indra, to the ancient singers wast ever joy, like water to the thirsty,
So unto thee I sing this invocation. May we find strengthenifig food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXVII. Indra.
So unto thee I sing this invocation. May we find strengthenifig food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXVII. Indra.
1. THE
Bull of men, who cherishes all people, King of the Races, Indra, called of
many,
Fame-loving, praised, hither to me with succour turn having yoked both vigorous Bay Horses!
Fame-loving, praised, hither to me with succour turn having yoked both vigorous Bay Horses!
2. Thy
mighty Stallions, yoked by prayer, O Indra, thy. Coursers to thy mighty chariot
harnessed,-
Ascend thou these, and borne by them come hither: with Soma juice out. poured, Indra, we call thee.
Ascend thou these, and borne by them come hither: with Soma juice out. poured, Indra, we call thee.
3.
Ascend thy mighty car: the mighty Soma is poured for thee and sweets are
sprinkled round us.
Come down to us-ward, Bull of human races,come, having harnessed them, with strong Bay Horses.
Come down to us-ward, Bull of human races,come, having harnessed them, with strong Bay Horses.
4. Here
is God-reaching sacrifice, here the victim; here, Indra,are the prayers, here
is the Soma.
Strewn is thesacred grass: come hither, Sakra; seatthee and drink: unyoke thy two Bay Coursers.
Strewn is thesacred grass: come hither, Sakra; seatthee and drink: unyoke thy two Bay Coursers.
5 Come
to us, Indra, come thou highly lauded to the devotions of the singer Mana.
Singing, may we find early through thy succour, may we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXVIII. Indra.
Singing, may we find early through thy succour, may we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXVIII. Indra.
1. IF,
Indra, thou hast given that gracious hearing where with thou helpest those who
sang thy praises.
Blast not the wish that would exalt us may I gain all from thee, and pay all man’s devotions.
Blast not the wish that would exalt us may I gain all from thee, and pay all man’s devotions.
2. Let
not the Sovran Indra disappoint us in what shall bring both Sisters to our
dwelling.
To him have run the quickly flowing waters.May Indra come to us with life and friendship.
To him have run the quickly flowing waters.May Indra come to us with life and friendship.
3.
Victorious with the men, Hero in battles, Indra, who hearsthe singer’s
supplication,
Will bring his car nigh to the man who offers, if he himself upholds the songs that praise him.
Will bring his car nigh to the man who offers, if he himself upholds the songs that praise him.
4.
Yea,Indra, with the men, through love of gloryconsumes the sacred food which
friends have offered.
The ever-strengthening song of him who worships is sung in fight amid the clash of voices.
The ever-strengthening song of him who worships is sung in fight amid the clash of voices.
5. Aided
by thee, O Maghavan, O Indra, may we subdue our foes who count them mighty.
Be our protector, strengthen and increase us.May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
Be our protector, strengthen and increase us.May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN
CLXXIX. Rati.
The
deified object of this omitted hymn is said to be Rati or Love, and its Rsis or
authors are Lopamudrd, Agastya, and a disciple. Lopamudra is represented as
inviting the caresses of her aged husband Agastya, and complaining of his
coldness and neglect. Agastya responds in stanza 3, and in the second half of
stanza 4 the disciple or the poet briefly tells the result of the dialogue.
Stanza 5 is supposed to be spoken by the disciple who has overheard the
conversation, but its connexion with the rest of the hymn is not very apparent.
In stanza 6 ‘toiling with strong endeavour’ is a paraphrase and not a translation
of the original khanamanah khanitraib (ligonibus fodiens) which Sayana explains
by ‘obtaining the desired result by means of lauds and sacrifices.’
M. Bergaigne is of opinion that the hymn has a mystical meaning, Agastya being identifiable with the celestial Soma whom Lopamudra, representing fervent Prayer, succeeds after long labour in drawing down from his secret dwelling place. See La Religion Vedique, ii. 394 f.
M. Bergaigne is of opinion that the hymn has a mystical meaning, Agastya being identifiable with the celestial Soma whom Lopamudra, representing fervent Prayer, succeeds after long labour in drawing down from his secret dwelling place. See La Religion Vedique, ii. 394 f.
1
‘Through many autumns have I toiled and laboured, at night and morn, through
age-inducing dawnings.
Old age impairs the beauty of our bodies. Let husbands still come near unto their spouses.
Old age impairs the beauty of our bodies. Let husbands still come near unto their spouses.
2. For
even the men aforetime, law-fulfillers, who with the Gods declared eternal
statutes,–
They have decided, but have not accomplished: so now let Wives come near unto their husbands.
They have decided, but have not accomplished: so now let Wives come near unto their husbands.
3. Non
inutilis est labor cui Dii favent: nos omnes aemulos et aemulas vincamus.
Superemus in hac centum artium pugna in qua duas partes convenientes utrinque commovemus.
Superemus in hac centum artium pugna in qua duas partes convenientes utrinque commovemus.
4.
Cupido me cepit illius tauri [viri] qui me despicit, utrum hinc utrum illinc ab
aliqua parte nata sit.
Lopamudra taururn [mariturn suum] ad se detrahit: insipiens illa sapientem anhelantern absorbet.
Lopamudra taururn [mariturn suum] ad se detrahit: insipiens illa sapientem anhelantern absorbet.
5. This
Soma I address that is most near us, that which hath been imbibed within the
spirit,
To pardon any sins we have committed. Verily mortal man is full of longings.
To pardon any sins we have committed. Verily mortal man is full of longings.
6.
Agastya thus, toiling with strong endeavor, wishing for children, progeny and.
power,
Cherished – a sage of mighty strength – both classes, and with the Gods obtained his prayer’s fulfilment.
By ‘both classes’ probably priests and princes, or institutors of sacrifices, are meant. M. Bergaigne understands the expression to mean the two forms or essences of Soma, the celestial and the terrestrial.
Cherished – a sage of mighty strength – both classes, and with the Gods obtained his prayer’s fulfilment.
By ‘both classes’ probably priests and princes, or institutors of sacrifices, are meant. M. Bergaigne understands the expression to mean the two forms or essences of Soma, the celestial and the terrestrial.
5.
Membrum suum virile, quod vrotentum fuerat, mas ille retraxit. Rursus illud
quod in juvenem filiam sublatum fuerat, non aggressurus, ad se rerahit.
6. Quum
jam in medio connessu, semiperfecto opere, amorem in puellam pater impleverat,
ambo discedentes seminis paulum in terrae superficiem sacrorum sede effusum
emiserunt.
7. Quum
pater suam nilam adiverat, cum ed congressus suum semen supra wrrarn effudit.
Tum Dii benigni precem (brahma) prgeduerunt, et Vastoshpatim, legum sacrarum
custodem, formaverunt.
8. Ille
tauro similis spumam in certamine jactavit, tunc discedens pusillaximis huc
profectus est. Quasi dextro pede claudus processit, “inutiles fuerunt illi mei
complexus,” ita locutus.
9. ‘The
fire, burning the people, does not approach quickly (by day): the naked
(Rakasas approach) not Agni by night; the giver of fuel, and the giver of food,
he, the upholder (of the rite), is born, overcoming enemies by his might.’
HYMN CLXXX. Asvins.
HYMN CLXXX. Asvins.
1.
LIGHTLY your coursers travel through the regions when round thesea of air your
car is flying.
Your golden fellies scatter drops of moisture: drinking the sweetness ye atend the Mornings.
Your golden fellies scatter drops of moisture: drinking the sweetness ye atend the Mornings.
2. Ye as
ye travel overtake the Courser who flies apart, the Friend of man, most holy.
The prayer is that the Sister may convey you, all praised, meath-drinkers! to support and strengthen.
The prayer is that the Sister may convey you, all praised, meath-drinkers! to support and strengthen.
3. Ye
have deposited, matured within her, in the raw cow the first milk of the
milch-cow,
Which the bright offerer, shining like a serpent mid trees, presents to you whose form is perfect.
Which the bright offerer, shining like a serpent mid trees, presents to you whose form is perfect.
4. Ye
made the fierce heat to be full of sweetness for Atri at his wish, like
streaming water.
Fire-offering thence is yours, O Asvins, Heroes: your car-wheels speed to us like springs of honey.
Fire-offering thence is yours, O Asvins, Heroes: your car-wheels speed to us like springs of honey.
5. Like
Tugra’s ancient son may I, ye Mighty, bring you to give your gifts with
milk-oblations.
Your greatness compasseth Earth, Heaven, and Waters: decayed for you is sorrow’s net, ye Holy.
Your greatness compasseth Earth, Heaven, and Waters: decayed for you is sorrow’s net, ye Holy.
6. When,
Bounteous Ones, ye drive your yoked team downward, ye send, by your own
natures, understanding.
Swift as the wind let the prince please and feast you: he, like a pious man, gains strength for increase.
Swift as the wind let the prince please and feast you: he, like a pious man, gains strength for increase.
7. For
verily we truthful singers praise you the niggard trafficker is here excluded.
Now, even now do ye O blameless Advins, ye Mighty, guard the man whose God is near him.
Now, even now do ye O blameless Advins, ye Mighty, guard the man whose God is near him.
8. You
of a truth day after day, O Asvins, that he might win the very plenteous
torrent,
Agastya, famous among mortal heroes, roused with a thousand lauds like sounds of music.
Agastya, famous among mortal heroes, roused with a thousand lauds like sounds of music.
9. When
with the glory of your car ye travel, when we go speeding like the priest of
mortals,
And give good horses to sacrificers, may we, Nasatyas! gain our share of riches.
And give good horses to sacrificers, may we, Nasatyas! gain our share of riches.
10. With
songs of praise we call to-day, O Asvins, that your new chariot, for our own
well-being,
That circles heaven with never-injured fellies. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXXI. Asvins
That circles heaven with never-injured fellies. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXXI. Asvins
1. WHAT,
dearest Pair, is this in strength and riches that ye as Priests are bring from
the waters?
This sacrifice is your glorification, ye who protect mankind and give them treasures.
This sacrifice is your glorification, ye who protect mankind and give them treasures.
2. May
your pure steeds, rain-drinkers, bring you hither, swift as the tempest, your
celestial coursers,
Rapid as thought, with fair backs, full of vigour, resplendent in their native light, O Asvins.
Rapid as thought, with fair backs, full of vigour, resplendent in their native light, O Asvins.
3. Your
car is like a torrent rushing downward: may it come nigh, broad-seated, for our
welfare,-
Car holy, strong, that ever would be foremost, thought-swift, which ye, for whom we long, have mounted.
Car holy, strong, that ever would be foremost, thought-swift, which ye, for whom we long, have mounted.
4. Here
sprung to life, they both have sung together, with bodies free from stain, with
signs that mark them;
One of you Prince of Sacrifice, the Victor, the other counts as Heaven’s auspicious offspring.
One of you Prince of Sacrifice, the Victor, the other counts as Heaven’s auspicious offspring.
5. May
your car-seat, down-gliding, golden-coloured, according to your wish approach
our dwellings.
Men shall feed full the bay steeds of the other, and, Asvins they with roars shall stir the regions.
Men shall feed full the bay steeds of the other, and, Asvins they with roars shall stir the regions.
6. Forth
comes your strong Bull like a cloud of autumn, sending abundant food of liquid
sweetness.
Let them feed with the other’s ways and vigour: the upper streams have come and do us service.
Let them feed with the other’s ways and vigour: the upper streams have come and do us service.
7. Your
constant song hath been sent forth, Disposers! that flows threefold in mighty
strength, O Asvins.
Thus lauded, give the suppliant protection moving or resting hear mine invocation.
Thus lauded, give the suppliant protection moving or resting hear mine invocation.
8. This
song of bright contents for you is swelling in the men’s hall where three-fold
grass is.ready.
Your strong rain-cloud, ye Mighty Ones, hath swollen, honouring men as ’twere with milk’s outpouring.
Your strong rain-cloud, ye Mighty Ones, hath swollen, honouring men as ’twere with milk’s outpouring.
9. The
prudent worshipper, like Pusan, Asvins! praises you as he praises Dawn and
Agni,
When, singing with devotion, he invokes you. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXXII. Asvins.
When, singing with devotion, he invokes you. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXXII. Asvins.
1. THIS
was the task. Appear promptly, ye prudent Ones. Here is the chariot drawn by
strong steeds: be ye glad.
Heart-stirring, longed for, succourers of Vispala, here are Heaven’s Sons whose sway blesses the pious man.
Heart-stirring, longed for, succourers of Vispala, here are Heaven’s Sons whose sway blesses the pious man.
2.
Longed for, most Indra-like, mighty, most Marut-like, most w6nderful in deed,
car-borne, best charioteers,
Bring your full chariot hither heaped with liquid sweet: thereon, ye Mvins, come to him who offers gifts.
Bring your full chariot hither heaped with liquid sweet: thereon, ye Mvins, come to him who offers gifts.
3. What
make ye there, ye Mighty? Wherefore linger ye with folk who, offering not, are
held in high esteem?
Pass over them; make ye the niggard’s life decay: give light unto the singer eloquent in praise.
Pass over them; make ye the niggard’s life decay: give light unto the singer eloquent in praise.
4.
Crunch up on. every side the dogs who bark at us: slay ye our foes, O Asvins
this ye understand.
Make wealthy every word of him who praises you: accept with favour, both Nasatyas, this my laud.
Make wealthy every word of him who praises you: accept with favour, both Nasatyas, this my laud.
5. Ye
made for Tugra’s son amid the water-floods that animated ship with wings to fly
withal,
Whereon with God-devoted mind ye brought him forth, and fled with easy flight from out the mighty surge.
Whereon with God-devoted mind ye brought him forth, and fled with easy flight from out the mighty surge.
6. Four
ships most welcome in the midst of ocean, urged by the Asvins, save the son of
Tugra,
Him who was cast down headlong in the waters, plunged in the thick inevitable darkness.
Him who was cast down headlong in the waters, plunged in the thick inevitable darkness.
7. What
tree was that which stood fixed in surrounding sea to which the son of Tugra
supplicating clung?
Like twigs, of which some winged creature may take hold, ye, Asvins, bore him off safely to your renown.
Like twigs, of which some winged creature may take hold, ye, Asvins, bore him off safely to your renown.
8.
Welcome to you be this the hymn of praises uttered by Manas, O Nasatyas,
Heroes,
From this our gathering where we offer Soma. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXXIII. Asvins.
From this our gathering where we offer Soma. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXXIII. Asvins.
1. MAKE
ready that which passes thought in swiftness, that hath three wheels and triple
seat, ye Mighty,
Whereon ye seek the dwelling of the pious, whereon, threefold, ye fly like birds with pinions.
Whereon ye seek the dwelling of the pious, whereon, threefold, ye fly like birds with pinions.
2. Light
rolls your easy chariot faring earthward, what time, for food, ye, full of
wisdom, mount it.
May this song, wondrous fair, attend your glory: ye, as ye travel, wait on Dawn Heaven’s Daughter.
May this song, wondrous fair, attend your glory: ye, as ye travel, wait on Dawn Heaven’s Daughter.
3. Ascend
your lightly rolling car, approaching the worshipper who turns him to his
duties,-
Whereon ye come unto the house to quicken man and his offspring, O Nasatyas, Heroes.
Whereon ye come unto the house to quicken man and his offspring, O Nasatyas, Heroes.
4. Let
not the wolf, let not the she-wolf harm you. Forsake me not, nor pass me by or
others.
Here stands your share, here is your hymn, ye Mighty: yours are these vessels, full of pleasant juices.
Here stands your share, here is your hymn, ye Mighty: yours are these vessels, full of pleasant juices.
5.
Gotama, Purumilha, Atri bringing oblations all invoke you for protection.
Like one who goes strai ht to the point directed, ye Nasatyas, to mine invocation.
Like one who goes strai ht to the point directed, ye Nasatyas, to mine invocation.
6. We
have passed o’er the limit of this darkness: our praise hath been bestowed on
you, O Asvins.
Come hitherward by paths which Gods have travelled. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
Come hitherward by paths which Gods have travelled. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN
CLXXXIV Asvins.
1. LET
us invoke you both this day and after the priest is here with lauds when morn
is breaking:
Nasatyas, wheresoe’er ye be, Heaven’s Children, for him who is more liberal than the godless.
Nasatyas, wheresoe’er ye be, Heaven’s Children, for him who is more liberal than the godless.
2. With
us, ye Mighty, let yourselves be joyful, glad in our stream of Soma slay the
niggards.
Graciously hear my hymns and invitations, marking, O Heroes, with your cars my longing.
Graciously hear my hymns and invitations, marking, O Heroes, with your cars my longing.
3.
Nasatyas, Pusans, ye as Gods for glory arranged and set in order Surya’s
bridal.
Your giant steeds move on, sprung from the waters, like ancient times of Varuna the Mighty.
Your giant steeds move on, sprung from the waters, like ancient times of Varuna the Mighty.
4. Your
grace be with us, ye who love sweet juices: further the hymn sung by the poet
Mana,
When men are joyful in your glorious actions, to win heroic strength, ye Bounteous Givers.
When men are joyful in your glorious actions, to win heroic strength, ye Bounteous Givers.
5. This
praise was made, O liberal Lords, O Asvins, for you with fair adornment by the
Manas.
Come to our house for us and for our children, rejoicing, O Nasatyas, in Agastya.
Come to our house for us and for our children, rejoicing, O Nasatyas, in Agastya.
6. We
have passed o’er the limit of this darkness: our praise hath been’bestowed on
you, O Asvins.
Come hitherward by paths which Gods have travelled. may we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXXV. Heaven and Earth.
Come hitherward by paths which Gods have travelled. may we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXXV. Heaven and Earth.
1.
WHETHER of these is elder, whether later? How were they born? Who knoweth it,
ye sages?
These of themselves support all things existing: as on a car the Day and Night roll onward.
These of themselves support all things existing: as on a car the Day and Night roll onward.
2. The
Twain uphold, though motionless and footless, a widespread offspring having
feet and moving.
Like your own fon upon his parents’ bosom, protect us, Heaven and earth, from fearful danger.
Like your own fon upon his parents’ bosom, protect us, Heaven and earth, from fearful danger.
3. I
call for Aditi’s unrivalled bounty, perfect, celestial, deathless, meet for
worship.
Produce this, ye Twain Worlds, for him who lauds you. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger.
Produce this, ye Twain Worlds, for him who lauds you. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger.
4. May
we be close to both the Worlds who suffer no pain, Parents of Gods, who aid
with favour,
Both mid the Gods, with Day and Night alternate. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger.
Both mid the Gods, with Day and Night alternate. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger.
5.
Faring together, young, with meeting limits, Twin Sisters lying in their
Parents’ bosom,
Kissing the centre of the world together. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger.
Kissing the centre of the world together. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger.
6. Duly
I call the two wide seats, the mighty, the general Parents, with the God’s
protection.
Who, beautiful to look on, make the nectar. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger.
Who, beautiful to look on, make the nectar. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger.
7. Wide,
vast, and manifold, whose bounds are distant,-these, reverent, I address at
this our worship,
The blessed Pair, victorious, all-sustaining. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger.
The blessed Pair, victorious, all-sustaining. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger.
8. What
sin we have at any time committed against the Gods, our friend, our house’s
chieftain,
Thereof may this our hymn be expiation. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger.
Thereof may this our hymn be expiation. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger.
9. May
both these Friends of man, who bless, preserve me, may they attend me with
their help and favour.
Enrich the man more liberal than the godless. May we, ye Gods, be strong with food rejoicing.
Enrich the man more liberal than the godless. May we, ye Gods, be strong with food rejoicing.
10.
Endowed with understanding, I have uttered this truth, for all to hear, to
Earth and Heaven.
Be near us, keep us from reproach and trouble. Father and Mother, with your help preserve us.
Be near us, keep us from reproach and trouble. Father and Mother, with your help preserve us.
11. Be
this my prayer fulfilled, O Earth and Heaven, wherewith, Father and Mother, I
address you.
Nearest of Gods be ye with your protection. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXXVI. Visvedevas.
Nearest of Gods be ye with your protection. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXXVI. Visvedevas.
1. LOVED
of all men, may Savitar, through praises offered as sacred food, come to our
synod,
That you too, through-our hymn, ye ever-youthful, may gladden, at your visit, all our people.
That you too, through-our hymn, ye ever-youthful, may gladden, at your visit, all our people.
2. To us
may all the Gods come trooped together, Aryaman, Mitra, Varuna concordant,
That all may be promoters of our welfare, and with great might preserve our strength from slackness.
That all may be promoters of our welfare, and with great might preserve our strength from slackness.
3. Agni
I sing, the guest you love most dearly: the Conqueror through our lauds is
friendly-minded.
That he may be our Varuna rich in glory and send food like a prince praised by the godly.
That he may be our Varuna rich in glory and send food like a prince praised by the godly.
4. To
you I seek with reverence, Night and Morning, like a cow good to milk, with
hope to conquer,
Preparing on a common day the praise. song with milk of various hues within this udder.
Preparing on a common day the praise. song with milk of various hues within this udder.
5. May
the great Dragon of the Deep rejoice us: as one who nourishes her young comes
Sindhu,
With whom we will incite the Child of Waters whom vigorous course swift as thought bring hither.
With whom we will incite the Child of Waters whom vigorous course swift as thought bring hither.
6.
Moreover Tvastar also shall approach us, one-minded with the princes at his
visit.
Hither shall come the Vrtra-slayer Indra, Ruler of men, as strongest of the Heroes.
Hither shall come the Vrtra-slayer Indra, Ruler of men, as strongest of the Heroes.
7. Him
too our hymns delight, that yoke swift horses, like mother cows who lick their
tender youngling.
To him our songs shall yield themselves like spouses, to him the most delightful of the Heroes.
To him our songs shall yield themselves like spouses, to him the most delightful of the Heroes.
8. So
may the Maruts, armed with mighty weapons, rest here on heaven and earth with
hearts in concord,
As Gods whose cars have dappled steeds like torrents, destroyers of the foe allies of Mitra.
As Gods whose cars have dappled steeds like torrents, destroyers of the foe allies of Mitra.
9. They
hasten on to happy termination their orders when they are made known by
glory.
As on a fair bright day the arrow flieth o’er all the barren soil their missiles sparkle.
glory.
As on a fair bright day the arrow flieth o’er all the barren soil their missiles sparkle.
10.
Incline the Asvins to show grace, and Pusan, for power and might have they,
their own possession.
Friendly are Visnu, Vata, and Rbhuksan so may I bring the Gods to make us happy.
Friendly are Visnu, Vata, and Rbhuksan so may I bring the Gods to make us happy.
11. This
is my reverent thought of you, ye Holy; may it inspire you, make you dwell
among us,-
Thought, toiling for the Gods and seeking treasure. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXXVII. Praise of Food.
Thought, toiling for the Gods and seeking treasure. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CLXXXVII. Praise of Food.
1. Now
will I glorify Food that upholds great strength,
By whose invigorating power Trita rent Vrtra limb frorn limb.
By whose invigorating power Trita rent Vrtra limb frorn limb.
2. O
pleasant Food, O Food of meath, thee have we chosen for our own,
So be our kind protector thou.
So be our kind protector thou.
3. Come
hitherward to us, O Food, auspicious with auspicious help,
Health-bringing, not unkind, a dear and guileless friend.
Health-bringing, not unkind, a dear and guileless friend.
4. These
juices which, O Food, are thine throughout the regions are diffused.
like winds they have their place in heaven.
like winds they have their place in heaven.
5. These
gifts of thine, O Food, O Food most sweet to taste,
These savours of thy juices work like creatures that have mighty necks.
These savours of thy juices work like creatures that have mighty necks.
6. In
thee, O Food, is set the spirit of great Gods.
Under thy flag brave deeds were done he slew the Dragon with thy help.
Under thy flag brave deeds were done he slew the Dragon with thy help.
7. If
thou be gone unto the splendour of the clouds,
Even from thence, O Food of meath, prepared for our enjoyment, come.
Even from thence, O Food of meath, prepared for our enjoyment, come.
8.
Whatever morsel we consume from waters or from plants of earth, O Soma, wax
thou fat thereby.
9. What
Soma, we enjoy from thee in milky food or barley-brew, Vatapi, grow thou fat
thereby.
10. O
Vegetable, Cake of meal, he wholesome, firm, and strengthening: Vatapi, grow
thou fat thereby.
11. O
Food, from thee as such have we drawn forth with lauds, like cows, our
sacrificial gifts,
From thee who banquetest with Gods, from thee who banquetest with us.
HYMN CLXXXVIII. April
From thee who banquetest with Gods, from thee who banquetest with us.
HYMN CLXXXVIII. April
1.
WINNER of thousands, kindled, thou shinest a God with Gods to-day.
Bear out oblations, envoy, Sage.
Bear out oblations, envoy, Sage.
2. Child
of Thyself the sacrifice is for the righteous blent with meath,
Presenting viands thousandfold.
Presenting viands thousandfold.
3.
Invoked and worthy of our praise bring Gods whose due is sacrifice:
Thou, Agni, givest countless gifts.
Thou, Agni, givest countless gifts.
4. To
seat a thousand Heroes they eastward have strewn the grass with might,
Whereon, Adityas, ye shine forth.
Whereon, Adityas, ye shine forth.
5. The
sovran all-imperial Doors, wide, good, many and manifold,
Have poured their streams of holy oil.
Have poured their streams of holy oil.
6. With
gay adornment, fair to see, in glorious beauty shine they forth:
Let Night and Morning rest them here.
Let Night and Morning rest them here.
7. Let
these two Sages first of all, heralds divine and eloquent,
Perform for us this sacrifice.
Perform for us this sacrifice.
8. You I
address, Sarasvati, and Bharati, and Ila, all:
Urge ye us on to glorious fame.
Urge ye us on to glorious fame.
9.
Tvastar the Lord hath made all forms and all the cattle of the field
Cause them to multiply for us.
Cause them to multiply for us.
10. Send
to the Gods, Vanaspati, thyself, the sacrificial draught:
Let Agni make the oblations sweet.
Let Agni make the oblations sweet.
11.
Agni, preceder of the Gods, is honoured with the sacred song:
He glows at offerings blest with Hail!
HYMN CLXXXIX. Agni.
He glows at offerings blest with Hail!
HYMN CLXXXIX. Agni.
1. BY
goodly paths lead us to riches, Agni, God who knowest every sacred duty.
Remove the sin that makes us stray and wander. most ample adoration will we bring thee.
Remove the sin that makes us stray and wander. most ample adoration will we bring thee.
2. Lead
us anew to happiness, O Agni; lead us beyond all danger and affliction.
Be unto us a wide broad ample castle bless, prosper on their way our sons and offspring.
Be unto us a wide broad ample castle bless, prosper on their way our sons and offspring.
3. Far from
us, Agni, put thou all diseases let them strike lauds that have no saving Agni.
God, make our home again to be a b1ess ing, with all the Immortal Deities, O Holy.
God, make our home again to be a b1ess ing, with all the Immortal Deities, O Holy.
4.
Preserve us, Agni, with perpetual succour, refulgent in the dwelling which thou
lovest.
O Conqueror, most youthful, let no danger touch him who praises thee to-day or after.
O Conqueror, most youthful, let no danger touch him who praises thee to-day or after.
5. Give
not us up a prey to sin, O Agni, the greedy enemy that brings us trouble;
Not to the fanged that bites, not to the toothless: give not us up, thou Conqueror, to the spoiler.
Not to the fanged that bites, not to the toothless: give not us up, thou Conqueror, to the spoiler.
6. Such
as thou art, born after Law, O Agni when lauded give protection to our bodies,
From whosoever would reproach or injure: for thou, God, rcscuest from all oppression.
From whosoever would reproach or injure: for thou, God, rcscuest from all oppression.
7. Thou,
well discerning both these classes, comest to men at early morn, O holy Agni.
Be thou obedient unto man at evening, to be adorned, as keen, by eager suitors.
Be thou obedient unto man at evening, to be adorned, as keen, by eager suitors.
8. To
him have we addressed our pious speeches, I, Mana’s son, to him victorious
Agni.
May we gain countless riches with the sages. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CXC. Brhaspati.
May we gain countless riches with the sages. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CXC. Brhaspati.
1.GLORIFY
thou Brhaspati, the scatheless, who must be praised with hymns, sweet-tongued
and mighty,
To whom as leader of the song, resplendent, worthy of lauds, both Gods and mortals listen.
To whom as leader of the song, resplendent, worthy of lauds, both Gods and mortals listen.
2. On
him wait songs according to the season even as a stream of pious men set
moving.
Brhaspati-for helaid out the expanses- was, at the sacrifice, vast Matarisvan.
Brhaspati-for helaid out the expanses- was, at the sacrifice, vast Matarisvan.
3. The
praise, the verse that offers adoration, may he bring forth, as the Sun sends
his arms out,
He who gives daily light through this God’s wisdom, strong as a dread wild beast, and inoffensive.
He who gives daily light through this God’s wisdom, strong as a dread wild beast, and inoffensive.
4. His
song of praise pervades the earth and heaven – let the wise worshipper draw it,
like a courser.
These of Brhaspati, like hunters’ arrows, go to the skies that change their hue like serpents.
These of Brhaspati, like hunters’ arrows, go to the skies that change their hue like serpents.
5.
Those, God, who count thee as a worthless bullock, and, wealthy sinners, live
on thee the Bounteous,-
On fools like these no blessing thou bestowest: Brhaspati, thou punishest the spiteful.
On fools like these no blessing thou bestowest: Brhaspati, thou punishest the spiteful.
6. Like
a fair path is he, where grass is pleasant, though hard to win, a Friend
beloved most early.
Those who unharmed by enemies behold us, while: they would make them bare, stood closely compassed.
Those who unharmed by enemies behold us, while: they would make them bare, stood closely compassed.
7. He to
whom songs of praise go forth like torrents, as rivers eddying under banks flow
sea-ward-
Brhaspati the wise, the eager, closely looks upon both, the waters and the vessel.
Brhaspati the wise, the eager, closely looks upon both, the waters and the vessel.
8. So
hath Brhaspati, great, strong and mighty, the God exceeding powerful, been
brought hither.
May he thus lauded give us kine and horses. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CXCI Water. Grass. Sun.
May he thus lauded give us kine and horses. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.
HYMN CXCI Water. Grass. Sun.
1.
VENOMOUS, slightly venomous, or venomous aquatic worm,-
Both creatures, stinging, unobserved, with poison have infected me.
Both creatures, stinging, unobserved, with poison have infected me.
2.
Coming, it kills the unobserved; it kills them as it goes away,
It kills them as it drives them off, and bruising bruises them to death.
It kills them as it drives them off, and bruising bruises them to death.
3. Sara
grass, Darbha, Kusara, and Sairya, Munja, Virana,
Where all these creatures dwell unseen, with poison have infected me.
Where all these creatures dwell unseen, with poison have infected me.
4. The
cows had settled in their stalls, the beasts of prey had sought their lairs,
Extinguished were the lights of men, when things unseen infected me.
Extinguished were the lights of men, when things unseen infected me.
5. Or
these, thesereptiles, are observed, like lurking thieves at evening time.
Seers of all, themselves unseen: be therefore very vigilant.
Seers of all, themselves unseen: be therefore very vigilant.
6.
Heaven is your Sire, your Mother Earth, Soma your Brother, Aditi
Your Sister: seeing all, unseen, keep still and dwell ye happily.
Your Sister: seeing all, unseen, keep still and dwell ye happily.
7.
Biters of shoulder or of limb, with needle-stings, most venomous,
Unseen, whatever ye may be, vanish together and be gone.
Unseen, whatever ye may be, vanish together and be gone.
8.
Slayer of things unseen, the Sun, beheld of all, mounts, eastward, up,
Consuming all that are not seen, and evil spirits of the night.
Consuming all that are not seen, and evil spirits of the night.
9. There
hath the Sun-God mounted up, who scorches much and everything.
Even the Aditya from the hills, all-seen, destroying things unseen.
Even the Aditya from the hills, all-seen, destroying things unseen.
10. I
hang the poison in the Sun, a wine-skin in a vintner’s house,
He will not die, nor shall we die: his path is far: he whom Bay Horses bear hath turned thee to sweet meath.
He will not die, nor shall we die: his path is far: he whom Bay Horses bear hath turned thee to sweet meath.
11. This
little bird, so very small, hath swallowed all thy poison up.
She will not die, nor shall we die: his path is far: he whom Bay Horses bear hath turned thee to sweet meath.
She will not die, nor shall we die: his path is far: he whom Bay Horses bear hath turned thee to sweet meath.
12. The
three-times-seven bright sparks of fire have swallowed up the poison’s
strength.
They will not die, nor shall we die: his path is far: he whom Bay Horses bear hath turned thee to sweet meath.
They will not die, nor shall we die: his path is far: he whom Bay Horses bear hath turned thee to sweet meath.
13. Of
ninety rivers and of nine with power to stay the venom’s course,-
The names of all I have secured: his path is far: he whom Bay Horses bear hath turned thee to sweet meath.
The names of all I have secured: his path is far: he whom Bay Horses bear hath turned thee to sweet meath.
14. So
have the peahens three-times-seven, so have the maiden Sisters Seven
Carried thy venom far away, as girls bear water in their jars.
Carried thy venom far away, as girls bear water in their jars.
15. The
poison-insect is so small; I crush the creature with a stone.
I turn the poison hence away, departed unto distant lands.
I turn the poison hence away, departed unto distant lands.
16 Forth
issuing from the mountain’s side the poison-insect spake and said:
The scorpion’s venom hath no strength Scorpion, thy venom is but weak.
The scorpion’s venom hath no strength Scorpion, thy venom is but weak.
(I am grateful to Sree Ralph TH. Griffith for the collection)
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