Book Four

Then downward bither fell a flying feather of the Bird hasting forward in his journey. 5 And now let Maghavan accept the beaker, white, filled with milk, filled with the shining liquid; The best of sweet meath which the priests have offered: that Indra to his joy may drink, the Hero, that he may take and drink it to his rapture. HYMN XXVIII. Indra-Soma. 1. ALLIED with thee, in this thy friendship, Soma, Indra for man made waters flow together, Slew Ahi, and sent forth the Seven Rivers, and opened as it were obstructed fountains. 2 Indu, with thee for his confederate, Indra swiftly with might pressed down the wheel of Surya. What rolled, all life's support, on heaven's high summit was separated from the great oppressor. 3 Indra smote down, Agni consumed, O Indu, the Dasyus ere the noontide in the conflict. Of those who gladly sought a hard-won dwelling he cast down many a thousand with his arrow. 4 Lower than all besides hast thou, O Indra, cast down the Dasyus, abject tribes of Dasas. Ye drave away, ye put to death the foemen, and took great vengeance with your murdering weapons. 5 So, of a truth, Indra and Soma, Heroes, ye burst the stable of the kine and horses, The stable which the bar or stone obstructed; and piercing through set free the habitations. HYMN XXIX. Indra. 1. COME, lauded, unto us with powers and succours, O Indra, with thy Tawny Steeds; exulting, Past even the foeman's manifold libations, glorified with our hymns, true Wealth-bestower.

Past even the foeman's manifold libations, glorified with our hymns, true Wealth-bestower. 2 Man's Friend, to this our sacrifice he cometh marking how he is called by Soma-pressers. Fearless, and conscious that his Steeds are noble, he joyeth with the Soma-pouring heroes. 3 Make his cars hear, that he may show his vigour and may be joyful in the way he loveth. May mighty Indra pouring forth in bounty bestow on us good roads and perfect safety; 4 He who with succour comes to his implorer, the singer here who with his song invites him; He who himself sets to the pole swift Coursers, he who hath hundreds, thousands, Thunder-wielder. 5 O Indra Maghavan, by thee protected may we be thine, princes and priests and singers, Sharing the riches sent from lofty heaven which yields much food, and all desire its bounty. HYMN XXX. Indra. 1. O INDRA, Vrtra-slayer, none is better, mightier than thou: Verily there is none like thee. 2 Like chariot-wheels these people all together follow after thee: Thou ever art renowned as Great. 3 Not even all the gathered Gods conquered thee, Indra, in the war, When thou didst lengthen days by night. 4 When for the sake of those oppressed, and Kutsa as he battled, Thou stolest away the Sun's car-wheel. 5 When, fighting singly, Indra. thou o'ercamest all the furious Gods, thou slewest those who strove with thee. 6 When also for a mortal man, Indra, thou speddest forth the Sun,

6 When also for a mortal man, Indra, thou speddest forth the Sun, And holpest Etasa with might. 7 What? Vrtra-slayer, art not thou, Maghavan, fiercest in thy wrath? So hast thou quelled the demon too. 8 And this heroic deed of might thou, Indra, also hast achieved, That thou didst smite to death the Dame, Heaven's Daughter, meditating ill. 9 Thou, Indra, Mighty One, didst crush Usas, though Daughter of the Sky. When lifting up herself in pride. 10 Then from her chariot Usas fled, affrighted, from her ruined car. When the strong God had shattered it. 11 So there this car of Usas lay, broken to pieces, in Vipas, And she herself fled far away. 12 Thou, Indra, didst. with magic power resist the overflowing stream Who spread her waters o'er the land. 13 Valiantly didst thou seize and take the store which Susna had amassed, When thou didst crush his fortresses. 14 Thou, Indra, also smotest down Kulitara's son Sambara, The Dasa, from the lofty hill. 15 Of Dasa Varcin's thou didst slay the hundred thousand and the five, Crushed like the fellies, of a car. 16 So Indra, Lord of Heroes, Powers, caused the unwedded damsel's son, The castaway, to share the lauds. 17 So sapient Indra, Lord of Might, brought Turvaga and Yadu, those Who feared the flood, in safel o'er. 18 Arpa and Citraratha, both Aryas, thou, Indra, slewest swift, On yonder side of Sarayu, 19 Thou, Vrtra-slayer, didst conduct those two forlorn, the blind, the lame.

19 Thou, Vrtra-slayer, didst conduct those two forlorn, the blind, the lame. None may attain this bliss of thine. 20 For Divodasa, him who brought oblationt, 1ndra overthrew A hundred fortresses of stone. 21 The thirty thousand Disas he with magic power and weapons sent To slumber, for Dabhiti's sake. 22 As such, O Vrtra-slayer, thou art general Lord of kine for all, Thou Shaker of all things that be. 23 Indra, whatever deed of might thou hast this day to execute, None be there now to hinder it. 24 O Watchful One, may Aryaman the God give thee all goodly things. May Risan, Bhaga, and the God Karulati give all things fair. HYMN XXXI. Indra. 1. WITH what help will he come to us, wonderful, ever-waxing Friend; With what most mighty company? 2 What genuine and most liberal draught will spirit thee with juice to burst Open e'en strongly-guarded wealth? 3 Do thou who art Protector of us thy friends who praise thee With hundred aids approach us. 4 Like as a courser's circling wheel, so turn thee hitherward to us, Attracted by the hymns of men. 5 Thou seekest as it were thine own stations with swift descent of powers: I share thee even with the Sun. 6 What time thy courage and his wheels together, Indra, run their course With thee and with the Sun alike, 7 So even, Lord of Power and Might, the people call thee Maghavan, Giver, who pauses not to think. 8 And verily to him who toils and presses Soma juice for thee

8 And verily to him who toils and presses Soma juice for thee Thou quickly givest ample wealth. 9 No, not a hundred hinderers can check thy gracious bounty's flow, Nor thy great deeds when thou wilt act. 10 May thine assistance keep us safe, thy hundred and thy thousand aids: May all thy favours strengthen us. 11 Do thou elect us this place for friendship and prosperity, And great celestial opulence. 12 Favour us, Indra, evermore with overflowing store of wealth: With all thy succours aid thou us. 13 With new protections, Indra, like an archer, open thou forus The stables that are filled with kine. 14 Our chariot, Indra, boldly moves endued with splendour, ne'er repulsed, Winning for us both kine andsteeds. 15 O Surya, make our fame to be most excellent among the Gods, Most lofty as the heaven on high. HYMN XXXII. Indra. 1. O THOU who slewest Vrtra, come, O Indra, hither to our side, Mighty One with thy mighty aids. 2 Swift and impetuous art thou, wondrous amid the well-dressed folk: Thou doest marvels for our help. 3 Even with the weak thou smitest down him who is stronger, with thy strength The mighty, with the Friends thou hast. 4 O Indra, we are close to thee; to thee we sing aloud our songs: Help hnd defend us, even us. 5 As such, O Caster of the Stone, come with thy succours wonderful, Blameless, and irresistible. 6 May we be friends of one like thee, O Indra, with the wealth of kine,

6 May we be friends of one like thee, O Indra, with the wealth of kine, Comrades for lively energy. 7 For thou, O Indra, art alone the Lord of strength that comes from kine So grant thou us abundant food. 8 They turn thee not another way, when, lauded, Lover of the Song, Thou wilt give wealth to those who praise. 9 The Gotamas have sung their song of praise to thee that thou mayst give, Indra, for lively energy. 10 We will declare thy hero deeds, what Disa forts thou brakest down, Attacking them in rapturous joy. 11 The sages sing those manly deeds which, Indra, Lover of the Song, Thou wrougbtest when the Soma flowed. 12 Indra, the Gotamas who bring thee praises have grown strong by thee. Give them renown with hero sons. 13 For, Indra, verily thou art the general treasure even of all . Thee, therefore, do we invocate. 14 Excellent Indra, turn to us: glad thee among us with the juice Of Somas, Soma-drinker thou. 15 May praise from us who think Qn thee, O Indra, bring thee near to us. Turn thy two Bay Steeds hitherward. 16 Eat of our sacrificial cake: rejoice thee in the songs we sing. Even as a lover in his bride. 17 To India for a thousand steeds well-trained and fleet of foot we pray, And hundred jars of Soma juice. 18 We make a hundred of thy kine, yea, and a thousand, hasten nigh: So let thy bounty come to us. 19 We have obtained, a gift from thee, ten water-ewers wrought of gold:

19 We have obtained, a gift from thee, ten water-ewers wrought of gold: Thou, Vrtra-slayer, givest much. 20 A bounteous Giver, give us much, bring much and not a trifling gift: Much, Indra, wilt thou fain bestow. 21 O Vrtra-slayer, thou art famed in many a place as bountiful Hero, thy bounty let us share. 22 I praise thy pair of Tawny Steeds, wise Son of him who giveth kine Terrify not the cows with these. 23 Like two slight images of girls, unrobed, upon a new-wrought post, So shine the Bay Steeds in their course. 24 For me the Bays are ready when I start, or start not, with the dawn, Innocuous in the ways they take. HYMN XXXIII. Rbhus. I. I SEND my voice as herald to the Rbhus; I crave the white cow for the overspreading. Wind-sped, the Skillful Ones in rapid motion have in an instant compassed round the heaven. 2 What time the Rbus had with care and marvels done proper service to assist their Parents, They won the friendship of the Gods; the Sages carried away the fruit of their devotion. 3 May they who made their Parents, who were lying like posts that moulder, young again for ever,- May Vaja, Vibhvan, Rbhu, joined with Indra , protect our sacrifice, the Soma-lovers. 4 As for a year the Rbhus kept the Milch-cow, throughout a year fashioned and formed her body, And through a year's space still sustained her brightness, through these their labours they were made immortal. 5 Two beakers let us make,- thus said the eldest. Lct us make three,- this was the younger's sentence.

5 Two beakers let us make,- thus said the eldest. Lct us make three,- this was the younger's sentence. Four beakers let us make,- thus spoke the youngest. Tvastar approved this rede of yours, O Rbhus. 6 The men spake truth and even so they acted: this Godlike way of theirs the Rbhus followed. And Tvastar, when he looked on the four beakers resplendent as the day, was moved with envy. 7 When for twelve days the Rbhus joyed reposing as guests of him who never may be hidden, lley made fair fertile fields, they brought the rivers. Plants spread o'er deserts, waters filled the hollows. 8 May they who formed the swift car, bearing Heroes, and the Cow omniform and all-impelling, Even may they form wealth for us,-the Rbhus, dexterous-handed, deft in work and gracious. 9 So in their work the Gods had satisfaction, pondering it with thought and mental insight. The Gods' expert artificer was Vaja, Indra's Rbhuksan, Varuna's was Vibhvan. 10 They whol made glad with sacrifice and praises, wrought the two Bays, his docile Steeds, for Indra,- Rbhus, as those who wish a friend to prosper, bestow upon us gear and growth of riches. 11 This day have they set gladdening drink before you. Not without toil are Gods inclined to friendship. Therefore do ye who are so great, O Rbhus, vouchsafe us treasures at this third libation. HYMN XXXIV. Rbhus. 1. To this our sacrifice come Rbhu, Vibhvan, Vaja, and Indra with the gift of riches,

1. To this our sacrifice come Rbhu, Vibhvan, Vaja, and Indra with the gift of riches, Because this day hath Dhisana the Goddess set drink for you: the gladdening draughts have reached you. 2 Knowing your birth and rich in gathered treasure, Rbhus, rejoice together with the Rtus. The gladdening draughts and wisdom have approached you: send ye us riches with good store of heroes. 3 For you was made this sacrifice, O Rbhus, which ye, like men, won for yourselves aforetime. To you come all who find in you their pleasure: ye all were-even the two elder-Vajas. 4 Now for the mortal worshipper, O Heroes, for him who served you, was the gift of riches. Drink, Vajas, Rbhus! unto you is offered, to gladden you, the third and great libation. 5 Come to us, Heroes, Vajas and Rbhuksans, glorified for the sake of mighty treasure. These draughts approach you as the day is closing, as cows, whose calves are newly-born, their stable. 6 Come to this sacrifice of ours, ye Children of Strength, invoked with humble adoration. Drink of this meath, Wealth-givers, joined with Indra with whom ye are in full accord, ye Princes. 7 Close knit with Varuna drink the Soma, Indra; close-knit, ilymn-lover! with the Maruts drink it: Close-knit with drinkers first, who drink in season; close-knit with heavenly Dames who give us treasures. 8 Rejoice in full accord with the Adityas, in concord with the Parvatas, O Rbhus;

8 Rejoice in full accord with the Adityas, in concord with the Parvatas, O Rbhus; In full accord with Savitar, Divine One; in full accord with floods that pour forth riches. 9 Rbhus, who helped their Parents and the Asvins, who formed the Milch-cow and the pair of horses, Made armour, set the heaven and earth asunder,-far- reaching Heroes, they have made good offspring. 10 Ye who have wealth in cattle and in booty, in heroes, in rich sustenance and treasure, Such, O ye Rbhus, first to drink, rejoicing, give unto us and those who laud our present. 11 Ye were not far: we have not left you thirsting, blameless in this our sacrifice, O Rbhus. Rejoice you with the Maruts and with Indra, with the Kings, Gods! that ye may give us riches. HYMN XXXV. Rbhus. 1. Come hither, O ye Sons of Strength, ye Rbhus; stay not afar, ye Children of Sudhanvan. At this libation is your gift of treasure. Let gladdening draughts approach you after Indra's. 2 Hither is come the Rbhus' gift of riches; here was the drinking of the well-pressed Soma, Since by dexterity and skill as craftsmen ye made the single chalice to be fourfold 3 Ye made fourfold the chalice that wag single: ye spake these words and said, O Friend, assist us; Then, Vajas! gained the path of life eternal, deft-handed Rbhus, to the Gods' assembly. 4 Out of what substance was that chalice fashioned which ye made fourfold by your art and wisdom?

4 Out of what substance was that chalice fashioned which ye made fourfold by your art and wisdom? Now for the gladdening draught press out the liquor, and drink, O Rbhus, of die meath of Soma. 5 Ye with your cunning made your Parents youthful; the cup, for Gods to drink, ye formed with cunning; With cunning, Rbhus, rich in treasure, fashioned the two swift Tawny Steeds who carry Indra. 6 Whoso pours out for you, when days are closing, the sharp libation for your joy, O Vajas, For him, O mighty Rbhus, ye, rejoicing, have fashioned wealth with plenteous store of heroes. 7 Lord of Bay Steeds, at dawn thejuice thou drankest: thine, only thine, is the noonday libation. Now drink thou with the wealth-bestowing Rbhus, whom for their skill thou madest friends, O Indra. 8 Ye, whom your artist skill hath raised to Godhead have set you down above in heaven like falcons. So give us riches, Children of Sudhanvan, O Sons of Strength; ye have become immortal. 9 The third libation, that bestoweth treasure, which ye have won by skill, ye dexterous-handed,- This drink hath been effused for you, O Rbhus . drink it with high delight, with joy like Indra's. HYMN XXXVI. Rbhus. 1. THia car that was not made for horses or for reins, three-wheeled, worthy of lauds, rolls round the firmament. That is the great announcement of your Deity, that, O ye Rbhus, ye sustain the earth and heaven. 2 Ye Sapient Ones who made the lightly-rolling car out of your mind, by thought, the car that never errs,

2 Ye Sapient Ones who made the lightly-rolling car out of your mind, by thought, the car that never errs, You, being such, to drink of this drinkoffering, you, O ye Vajas, and ye Rbhus, we invoke. 3 O Vajas, Rbhus, reaching far, among the Gods this was your exaltation gloriously declared, In that your aged Parents, worn with length of days, ye wrought again to youth so that they moved at will. 4 The chalice that wag single ye have made fourfold, and by your wisdom brought the Cow forth from the hide. So quickly, mid the Gods, ye gained immortal life. Vajas and Rbhus, your great work must be extolled. 5 Wealth from the Rbhus is most glorious in renown, that which the Heroes, famed for vigour, have produced. In synods must be sung the car which Vibhvan wrought: that which ye favour, Gods! is famed among mankind. 6 Strong is the steed, the man a sage in eloquence, the bowman is a hero hard to beat in fight, Great store of wealth and manly power hath he obtained whom Vaja, Vibhvan, Rbhus have looked kindly on. 7 To you hath been assigned the fairest ornament, the hymn of praise: Vajas and Rbhus, joy therein; For ye have lore and wisdom and poetic skill: as such, with this our prayer we call on you to come. 8 According to the wishes of our hearts may ye, who have full knowledge of all the delights of men, Fashion for us, O Rbhus, power and splendid wealth, rich in high courage, excellent, and vital strength.

Fashion for us, O Rbhus, power and splendid wealth, rich in high courage, excellent, and vital strength. 9 Bestowing on us here riches and offspring, here fashion fame for us befitting heroes. Vouchsafe us wealth of splendid sort, O Rbhus, that we may make us more renowned than others. HYMN XXXVII. Rbhus. 1. COME to our sacrifice, Vajas, Rbhuksans, Gods, by the paths which Gods are wont to travel, As ye, gay Gods, accept in splendid weather the sacrifice among these folk of Manus. 2 May these rites please you in your heart and spirit; may the drops clothed in oil this day approach you. May the abundant juices bear you onward to power and strength, and, when imbibed, delight you. 3 Your threefold going near is God-appointed, so praise is given you, Vajas and Rbhuksans. So, Manus-like, mid younger folk I offer, to you who are aloft in heaven, the Soma. 4 Strong, with fair chains of gold and jaws of iron, ye have a splendid car and well-fed horses. Ye Sons of Strength, ye progeny of Indra, to you the best is offered to delight you. 5 Rbhuksans! him, for handy wealth, the mightiest comrade in the fight, Him, Indra's equal, we invoke, most bounteous ever, rich in steeds. 6 The mortal man whom, Rbhus, ye and Indra favour with your help, Must be successful, by his thoughts, at sacrifice and with the steed. 7 O Vajas and Rbhuksans, free for us the paths to sacrifice, Ye Princes, lauded, that we may press forward to each point of heaven.

Ye Princes, lauded, that we may press forward to each point of heaven. 8 O Vajas and Rbhuksans, ye Nasatyas, Indra, bless this wealth, And, before other men's, the steed, that ample riches may be won. HYMN XXXVIII. Dadhikris. 1. FROM you two came the gifts in days aforetime which Trasadasyu granted to the Purus. Ye gave the winner of our fields and plough-lands, and the strong smiter who subdued the Dasytis. 2 And ye gave mighty Dadhikras, the giver of many gifts, who visiteth all people, Impetuous hawk, swift and of varied colour, like a brave King whom each true man must honour. 3 Whom, as 'twere down a precipice, swift rushing, each Puru praises and his heart rejoices,- Springing forth like a hero fain for battle, whirling the car and flying like the tempest. 4 Who gaineth precious booty in the combats and moveth, winning spoil, among the cattle; Shown in bright colour, looking on the assemblies, beyond the churl, to worship of the living. 5 Loudly the folk cry after him in battles, as 'twere a thief who steals away a garment; Speeding to glory, or a herd of cattle, even as a hungry falcon swooping downward. 6 And, fain to come forth first amid these armies, this way and that with rows of cars he rushes, Gay like a bridesman, making him a garland, tossing the dust, champing the rein that holds him. 7 And that strong Steed, victorious and faithful, obedient with his body in the combat,

7 And that strong Steed, victorious and faithful, obedient with his body in the combat, Speeding straight on amid the swiftly ressing, casts o'er his brows the dust he tosses upward. 8 And at his thunder, like the roar of heaven, those who attack tremble and are affrighted; For when he fights against embattled thousands, dread is he in his striving; none may stay him. 9 The people praise the overpowering swiftness of this fleet Steed who giveth men abundance. Of him they say when drawing back from battle. Dadhikras hath sped forward with his thousands. 10 Dadhikras hath o'erspread the Fivefold People with vigour, as the Sun lightens the waters. May the strong Steed who winneth bundreds, thousands, requite with sweetness these my words and praises. HYMN XXXIX Dadhikras. 1. Now give we praise to Dadhikras the rapid, and mention in our laud the Earth and Heaven. May the Dawns flushing move me to exertion, and bear me safely over every trouble. 2 I praise the mighty Steed who fills my spirit, the Stallion Dadhikravan rich in bounties, Whom, swift of foot aind shining bright as Agni, ye, Varuna and Mitra, gave to Purus. 3 Him who hath honoured, when the flame is kindled at break of dawn, the Courser Dadhikrivan, Him, of one mind with Varuna and Mitra may Aditi make free from all transgression. 4 When we remember mighty Dadhikravan our food and strength, then the blest name of Maruts,

4 When we remember mighty Dadhikravan our food and strength, then the blest name of Maruts, Varuna, Mitra, we invoke for welfare, and Agni, and the thunder-wielding Indra. 5 Both sides invoke him as they call on Indra when they stir forth and turn to sacrificing. To us have Varuna and Mitra granted the Courser Dadhikris, a guide for mortals. 6 So have I glorified with praise strong Dadhikravan, conquering Steed. Sweet may he make our mouths; may he prolong the days we have to live. HYMN XL. Dadhikravan. 1. LET us recite the praise of Dadhikravan: may all the Mornings move me to exertion; Praise of the Lord of Waters, Dawn, and Agni, Brhaspati Son of Angiras, and Surya. 2 Brave, seeking war and booty, dwelling with the good and with the swift, may he hasten the food of Dawn. May he the true, the fleet, the lover of the course, the bird-like Dadhikravan, bring food, strength, and light. 3 His pinion, rapid runner, fans him m his way, as of a bird that hastens onward to its aim, And, as it were a falcon's gliding through the air, strikes Dadhikravan's side as he speeds on with might. 4 Bound by the neck and by the flanks and by the mouth, the vigorous Courser lends new swiftness to his speed. Drawing himself together, as his strength allows, Dadhikras springs along the windings of the paths. 5 The Hamsa homed in light, the Vasu in mid-air, the priest beside the altar, in the house the guest,

5 The Hamsa homed in light, the Vasu in mid-air, the priest beside the altar, in the house the guest, Dweller in noblest place, mid men, in truth, in sky, born of flood, kine, truth, mountain, he is holy Law. HYMN XLI. Indra-Varuna. 1. WHAT laud, O Indra-Varuna, with oblation, hath like the Immortal Priest obtained your favour? Hath our effectual laud, addressed with homage, touched you, O Indra-Varuna, in spirit? 2 He who with dainty food hath won you, Indra and Varuna, Gods, as his allies to friendship, Jayeth the Vrtras and his foes in battles, and through your mighty favours is made famous. 3 Indra and Varuna are most liberal givers of treasure to the men who toil to serve them, When they, as Friends inclined to friendship, honoured with dainty food, delight in flowing Soma. 4 Indra and Varuna, ye hurl, O Mighty, on him your strongest flashing bolt of thunder Who treats us ill, the robber and oppressor: measure on him your overwhelming vigour. 5 O Indra-Varuna, be ye the lovers of this my song, as steers who love the milch-Cow. Milk may it yield us as, gone forth to pasture, the great Cow pouring out her thousand rivers. 6 For fertile fields, for worthy sons and grandsons, for the Sun's beauty and for steer-like vigour, May Indra-Varuna with gracious favours work marvels for us in the stress of battle. 7 For you, as Princes, for your ancient kindness, good comrades of the man who seeks for booty,

7 For you, as Princes, for your ancient kindness, good comrades of the man who seeks for booty, We choose to us for the dear bond of friendship, most liberal Heroes bringing bliss like parents. 8 Showing their strength, these hymns for grace, Free-givers I have gone to you, devoted, as to battle. For glory have they gone, as milk to Soma, to Indra-Varuna my thoughts and praises. 9 To Indra and to Varuna, desirous of gaining wealth have these my thoughts proceeded. They have come nigh to you as treasurelovers, like mares, fleet-footed, eager for the glory. 10 May we ourselves be lords of during riches, of ample sustenance for car and hones. So may the Twain who work with newest succours bring yoked teams hitherward to us and riches. 11 Come with your mighty succours, O ye Mighty; come, Indra-Varuna, to us in battle. What time the flashing arrows play in combat, may we through you be winners in the contest. HYMN XLIL Indra-Varuna. 1. I AM the royal Ruler, mine is empire, as mine who sway all life are all Immortals. Varuna's will the Gods obey and follow. I am the King of men's most lofty cover. 2 I am King Varuna. To me were given these first existinghigh celestial powers. Varuna's will the Gods obey and follow. I am the King of men's most lofty cover. 3 I Varuna am Indra: in their greatness, these the two wide deep fairly-fashioned regions, These the two world-halves have I, even as Tvastar knowing all beings, joined and held together.

These the two world-halves have I, even as Tvastar knowing all beings, joined and held together. 4 I made to flow the moisture-shedding waters, and set the heaven firm in the scat of Order. By Law the Son of Aditi, Law Observer, hath spread abroad the world in threefold measure. 5 Heroes with noble horses, fain for battle, selected warriors, call on me in combat. I Indra Maghavan, excite the conflict; I stir the dust, Lord of surpassing vigour. 6 All this I did. The Gods' own conquering power never impedeth me whom none opposeth. When lauds and Soma juice have made me joyful, both the unbounded regions are affrighted. 7 All beings know these deeds of thine thou tellest this unto Varuna, thou great Disposer! Thou art renowned as having slain the Vrtras. Thou madest flow the floods that were obstructed. 8 Our fathers then were these, the Seven his, what time the son of Durgaha was captive. For her they gained by sacrifice Trasadasyu, a demi-god, like Indra, conquering foemen. 9 The spouse of Purukutsa gave oblations to you, O Indra-Varuna, with homage. Then unto her ye gave King Trasadasyu, the demi-god, the slayer of the foeman. 10 May we, possessing much, delight in riches, Gods in oblations and the kine in pasture; And that Milch-cow who ahrinks not from the milking, O Indra-Varuna, give to us daily. HYMN XLIII. Asvins. 1. WHO will hear, who of those who merit worship, which of all Gods take pleasure in our homage?

1. WHO will hear, who of those who merit worship, which of all Gods take pleasure in our homage? On whose heart shall we lay this laud celestial, rich with fair offerings, dearest to Immortals? 2 Who will be gracious? Who will come most uickly of all the Gods? Who will bring liss most largely? What car do they call swift with rapid coursers? That which the Daughter of the Sun elected. 3 So many days do ye come swiftly hither, as Indra to give help in stress of battle. Descended from the sky, divine, strong-pinioned, by which of all your powers are ye most mighty? 4 What is the prayer that we should bring you, Asvins, whereby ye come to us when invocated? Whether of you confronts e'en great betrayal? Lovers of sweetness, Dasras, help and save us. 5 In the wide space your chariot reacheth heaven, what time it turneth hither from the ocean. Sweets from your sweet shall drop, lovers of sweetness! These have they dressed for you as dainty viands. 6 Let Sindhu with his wave bedew your horses: in fiery glow have the red birds come hither. Observed of all was that your rapid going, whereby ye were the Lords of Siirya's Daughter. 7 Whene'er I gratified you here together, your grace was given us, O ye rich in booty. Protect, ye Twain, the singer of your praises: to you, Nasatyas, is my wish directed. HYMN XLIV. Asvins. 1. WE will invoke this day your car, farspreading, O Asvins, even the gathering, of the sunlight,-

1. WE will invoke this day your car, farspreading, O Asvins, even the gathering, of the sunlight,- Car praised in hymns, most ample, rich in treasure, fitted with seats, the car that beareth Surya. 2 Asvins, ye gained that glory by your Godhead, ye Sons of Heaven, by your own might and power. Food followeth close upon your bright appearing when stately horses in your chariot draw you. 3 Who bringeth you to-day for help with offered oblation, or with hymns to drink the juices? Who, for the sacrifice's ancient lover, turneth you hither, Asvins, offering homage? 4 Borne on your golden car, ye omnipresent! come to this sacrifice of ours, Nasatyas. Drink of the pleasant liquor of the Soma give riches to the people who adore you. 5 Come hitherward to us from earth, from heaven, borne on your golden chariot rolling lightly. Suffer not other worshippers to stay you here are ye bound by earlier bonds of friendship. 6 Now for us both, mete out, O WonderWorkers, riches exceeding great with store of heroes, Because the men have sent you praise, O Asvins, and Ajamilhas come to the laudation. 7 Whene'er I gratified you here together, your grace was given us, O ye rich in booty. Protect, ye Twain, the singer of your praises: to you, Nasatyas, is my wish directed. HYMN XLV. Asvins 1. YONDER goes up that light: your chariot is yoked that travels round upon the summit of this heaven. Within this car are stored three kindred shares of food, and a skin filled with meath is rustling as the fourth.

Within this car are stored three kindred shares of food, and a skin filled with meath is rustling as the fourth. 2 Forth come your viands rich with store of pleasant meath, and cars and horses at the flushing of the dawn, Stripping the covering from the surrounded gloom, and spreading through mid-air bright radiance like the Sun. 3 Drink of the meath with lips accustomed to the draught; harness for the meath's sake the chariot that ye love. Refresh the way ye go, refresh the paths with meath: hither, O Asvins, bring the skin that holds the meath. 4 The swans ye have are friendly, rich in store of mcath, gold-pinioned, strong to draw, awake at early morn, Swimming the flood, exultant, fain for draughts that cheer: ye come like flies to our libations of-the meath. 5 Well knowing solemn rites and rich in meath, the fires sing to the morning Asvins at the break of day, When with pure hands the prudent energetic priest hath with the stones pressed out the Soma rich in meath. 6 The rays advancing nigh, chasing with day the gloom, spread through the firmament bright radiance like the Sun; And the Sun harnessing his horses goeth forth: ye through your Godlike nature let his paths be known. 7 Devout in thought I have declared, O Asvins, your chariot with good steeds, which lasts for ever, Wherewith ye travel swiftly through the regions to the prompt worshipper who brings oblation. HYMN XLVI. Vayu. Indra-Vayu

HYMN XLVI. Vayu. Indra-Vayu 1. DRINK the best draught of Soma-juice, O Vayu, at our holy rites: For thou art he who drinketh first. 2 Come, team-drawn, with thy hundred helps, with Indra, seated in the car, Vaya, and drink your fill of juice. 3 May steeds a thousand bring you both, Indra. and Vayu, hitherward To drink the Soma, to the feagt. 4 For ye, O Indra-Vayu, mount the goldenseated car that aids The sacrifice, that reaches heaven. 5 On far-refulgent chariot come unto the man who offers gifts: Come, Indra-Vayu, hitherward. 6 Here, Indra-Vayu, is the juice: drink it, accordant with the Gods, Within the giver's dwelling-place. 7 Hither, O Indra-Vayu, be your journey here unyoke your steeds, Here for your draught of Soma juice. HYMN XLVIL Vayu. Indra-Vayu. 1. Vayu, the bright is offered thee, best of the meath at holy rites. Come thou to drink the Soma juice, God, longed-for, on thy team-drawn car. 2 O Vayu, thou and Indra are meet drinkers of these Soma-draughts, For unto you the drops proceed as waters gather to the vale. 3 O Indra-Vayu, mighty Twain, speeding together, Lords of Strength, Come to our succour with your team, that ye may drink the Soma juice. 4 The longed-for teams which ye possess, O Heroes, for the worshipper, Turn to us, Indra-Vayu, ye to whom the sacrifice is paid. HYMN XLVIII. Vayu. 1. TASTE offerings never tasted yet, as bards enjoy the foeman's wealth.

1. TASTE offerings never tasted yet, as bards enjoy the foeman's wealth. O Vayu, on refulgent car come to the drinking of the juice. 2 Removing curses, drawn by teams, with 1ndra, seated by thy side, O Vayu, on refulgent car come to the drinking of the juice. 3 The two dark treasuries of wealth that wear all beauties wait on thee. O Vayu, on refulgent car come to the drinking of the juice. 4 May nine-and-ninety harnessed steeds who yoke them at thy will bring thee. O Vayu, on refulgent car come to the drinking of the juice. 5 Harness, O Vayu, to thy car a hundred well-fed tawny steeds, Yea, or a thousand steeds, and let thy chariot come to us with might. HYMN XLIX. Indra-Brhaspati. 1. DEAR is this offering in your mouth, O Indra and Brhaspati: Famed is the laud, the gladdening draught. 2 This lovely Soma is effused, O Indra and Brhaspati, For you, to drink it and rejoice. 3 As Soma-drinkers to our house come, Indra and Brhaspati-and Indra-to drink Soma juice. 4 Vouchsafe us riches hundredfold, O Indra, and Brhaspati, With store of horses, thousandfold. 5 O Indra. and Brhaspati, we call you when the meath is shed, With songs, to drink the Soma juice. 6 Drink, Indra and Brhaspati, the Soma in the giver's house: Delight yourselves abiding there. HYMN L. Brhaspati. 1. Him who with might hath propped earth's ends, who sitteth in threefold seat, Brhaspati, with thunder, Him of the pleasant tongue have ancient sages, deep-thinking, holy singers, set before them.

Him of the pleasant tongue have ancient sages, deep-thinking, holy singers, set before them. 2 Wild in their course, in well-marked wise rejoicing were they, Brhaspati, who pressed around us. Preserve Brhaspati, the stall uninjured, this company's raining, ever-moving birthplace. 3 Brhaspati, from thy remotest distance have they sat down who love the law eternal. For thee were dug wells springing from the mountain, which murmuring round about pour streams of sweetness. 4 Brhaspati, when first he had his being from mighty splendour in supremest heaven, Strong, with his sevenfold mouth, with noise of thunder, with his seven rays, blew and dispersed the darkness. 5 With the loud-shouting band who sang his praises, with thunder, he destroyed obstructive Vala. Brhaspati thundering drave forth the cattle, the lowing cows who make oblations ready. 6 Serve we with sacrifices, gifts, and homage even thus the Steer of all the Gods, the Father. Brhaspati, may we be lords of riches, with noble progeny and store of heroes. 7 Surely that King by power and might heroic hath made him lord of all his foes' posses-ions, Who cherishes Brhaspati well-tended, adorns and worships him as foremost sharer. 8 In his own house he dwells in peace and comfort: to him for ever holy food flows richly. To him the people with free will pay homage-the King with whom the Brahman hatb precedence. 9 He, unopposed, is master of the riches.of his own subjects and of hostile people.

9 He, unopposed, is master of the riches.of his own subjects and of hostile people. The Gods uphold that King with their protection who helps the Brahman when he seeks his favour. 10 Indra, Brhaspati, rainers of treasure, rejoicing at this sacrifice drink the Soma. Let the abundant drops sink deep within you: vouchsafe us riches with full store of heroes. 11 Brhaspati and Indra, make us prosper may this be your benevolence to usward. Assist our holy thoughts, wake up our spirit: weaken the hatred of our foe and rivals. HYMN LI. Dawn. 1. FORTH from the darkness in the region eastward this most abundant splendid light hatb mounted. Now verily the far-refulgent Mornings, Daughters of Heaven, bring welfare to the people. 2 The richly-coloured Dawns have mounted eastward, like pillars planted at our sacrifices, And, flushing far, splendid and purifying, unbarred the portals of the fold of darkness. 3 Dispelling gloom this day the wealthy Mornings urge liberal givers to present their treasures. In the unlightened depth of darkness round them let niggard traffickers sleep unawakened. 4 O Goddesses, is this your car, I ask you, ancient this day, or is it new, ye Mornings, Wherewith, rich Dawns, ye seek with wealth Navagva, Dasagva Angira, the seven-toned singer? 5 With horses harnessed by eternal Order, Goddesses, swiftly round the worlds ye travel, Arousing from their rest, O Dawns, the sleeping, and all that lives, man, bird, and beast, to motion.

Arousing from their rest, O Dawns, the sleeping, and all that lives, man, bird, and beast, to motion. 6 Which among these is eldest, and where is she through whom they fixed the Rbhus' regulations? What time the splendid Dawns go forth for splendour, they are not known aparto alike, unwasting. 7 Blest were these Dawns of old, shining with succour, true with the truth that springs from holy Order; With whom the toiling worshipper, by praises, hymning and lauding, soon attained to riches. 8 Hither from eastward all at once they travel, from one place spreading in the selfsame manner. Awaking, from the seat of holy Order the Godlike Dawns come nigh like troops of cattle. 9 Thus they go forth with undiminished colours, these Mornings similar, in self-same fashion, Concealing the gigantic might of darkness with radiant bodies bright and pure and shining. 10 O Goddesses, O Heaven's refulgent Daughters, bestow upon us wealth with store of children. As from our pleasant place of rest ye rouse us may we be masters of heroic vigour. 11 Well-skilled in lore of sacrifice, ye Daughters of Heaven, refulgent Dawns, I thus address you. May we be glorious among the people. May Heaven vouchsafe us this, and Earth the Goddess, HYMN LIL Dawm. 1. THIS Lady, giver of delight, after her Sister shining forth, Daughter of Heaven, hath shown herself.- 2 Unfailing, Mother of the Kine, in colour like a bright red mare,

2 Unfailing, Mother of the Kine, in colour like a bright red mare, The Dawn became the Asvins' Friend. 3 Yea, and thou art the Asvins' Friend, the Mother of the Kine art thou: O Dawn thou rulest over wealth. 4 Thinking of thee, O joyous One, as her who driveth hate away, We woke to meet thee with our lauds. 5 Our eyes behold thy blessed rays like troops of cattle loosed to feed. Dawn hath filled full the wide expanse. 6 When thou hast filled it, Fulgent One! thou layest bare the gloom with light. After thy nature aid us, Dawn. 7 Thou overspreadest heaven with rays, the dear wide region of mid-air. With thy bright shining lustre, Dawn. HYMN LIII. Savitar. 1. OF Savitar the God, the sapient Asura, we crave this great gift which is worthy of our choice, Wherewith he freely grants his worshiper defence. This with his rays the Great God hath vouchsafed to us. 2 Sustainer of the heaven, Lord of the whole world's life, the Sage, he putteth on his golden-coloured mail. Clear-sighted, spreading far, filling the spacious realm, Savitar hath brought forth bliss that deserveth laud. 3 He hath filled full the regions of the heaven and earth: the God for his own strengthening waketh up the hymn. Savitar hath stretched out his arms to cherish life, producing with his rays and lulling all that moves. 4 Lighting all living creatures, neer to be deceived, Savitar, God, protects each holy ordinance.

4 Lighting all living creatures, neer to be deceived, Savitar, God, protects each holy ordinance. He hath stretched out his arms to all the folk of earth, and, with his laws observed, rules his own mighty course. 5 Savitar thrice surrounding with his mightiness mid-air, three regions, and the triple sphere of light, Sets the three heavens in motion and the threefold earth, and willingly protects us with his triple law. 6 Most gracious God, who brings to life and lulls to rest, he who controls the world, what moves not and what moves, May he vouchsafe us shelter, -Savitar the God,- for tranquil life, with triple bar against distress. 7 With the year's seasons hath Savitar, God, come nigh: may he prosper our home, give food and noble sons. May he invigorate us through the days and nights, and may he send us opulence with progeny. HYMN LIV. Savitar. 1. Now must we praise and honour Savitar the God: at this time of the day the men must call to him, Him who distributes wealth to Manu's progeny, that he may grant us here riches most excellent. 2 For thou at first producest for the holy Gods the noblest of all portions, immor-tality: Thereafter as a gift to men, O Savitar, thou openest existence, life succeeding life. 3 If we, men as we are, have sinned against the Gods through want of thought, in weakness, or through insolence, Absolve us from the guilt and make us free from sin, O Savitar, alike among both Gods and men.

Absolve us from the guilt and make us free from sin, O Savitar, alike among both Gods and men. 4 None may impede that power of Savitar the God whereby he will maintain the universal world. What the fair-fingered God brings forth on earth's expanse or in the heightof heaven, that work of his stands sure. 5 To lofty hills thou sendest those whom Indra leads, and givest fixed abodes with houses unto these. However they may fly and draw themselves apart, still, Savitar, they stand obeying thy behest. 6 May the libations poured to thee thrice daily, day after day, O Savitar, bring us blessing. May Indra, Heaven, Earth, Sindhu with the Waters, Aditi with Adityas, give us shelter. HYMN LV. Visvedevas. 1. WHO of you, Vasus, saveth? who protecteth? O Heaven and Earth and Aditi, preserve us, Varuna., Mitra, from the stronger mortal. Gods, which of you at sacrifice giveth comfort? 2 They who with laud extol the ancient statutes, when they shine forth infallible dividers, Have ordered as perpetual Ordainers, and beamed as holy-thoughted WonderWorkers. 3 The Housewife Goddess, Aditi, and Sindhu, the Goddess Svasti I implore for friendship: And may the unobstructed Night and Morning both, day and night, provide for our protection. 4 Aryaman, Varuna have disclosed the pathway, Agni as Lord of Strength the road to welfare. Lauded in manly mode may Indra-Visnu grant us their powerful defence and shelter.

Lauded in manly mode may Indra-Visnu grant us their powerful defence and shelter. 5 I have besought the favourof the Maruts, of Parvata, of Bhaga God who rescues. From trouble caused by man the Lord preserve us; from woe sent by his friend let Mitra save us. 6 Agree, through these our watery oblations, Goddesses, Heaven and Earth, with Ahibudhnya. As if to win the sea, the Gharma-heaters have opened, as they come anear, the rivers. 7 May Goddess Aditi with Gods defend us, save us the saviour God with care unceasing. We dare not stint the sacred food of Mitra and Varuna upon the back of Agni. 8 Agni is Sovran Lord of wealth, Agni of great prosperity: May he bestow these gifts on us. 9 Hither to us, rich pleasant Dawn, bring many things to be desired, Thou who hast ample store of wealth. 10 So then may Bhaga, Savitar, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, Indra, with bounty come to us. HYMN LVI. Heaven and Earth. 1. MAY mighty Heaven and Earth, most meet for honour, be present here with light and gleaming splendours; When, fixing them apart, vast, most extensive, the Steer roars loudly in far-reaching courses. 2 The Goddesses with Gods, holy with holy, the Two stand pouring out their rain, exhaustless: Faithful and guileless, having Gods for children, leaders of sacrifice with shining splendours. 3 Sure in the worlds he was a skilful Craftsman, he who produced these Twain the Earth and Heaven.

3 Sure in the worlds he was a skilful Craftsman, he who produced these Twain the Earth and Heaven. Wise, with his power he brought both realms, together spacious and deep, wellfashioned, unsupported. 4 O Heaven and Earth, with one accord promoting, with high protection as of Queens, our welfare, Far-reaching, universal, holy, guard us. May we, car-borne, through song be victors ever. 5 To both of you, O Heaven and Earth, we bring our lofty song of praise, Pure Ones! to glorify you both. 6 Ye sanctify each other's form, by your own proper might ye rule, And from of old observe the Law. 7 Furthering and fulfilling, ye, O Mighty, perfect Mitra's Law. Ye sit around our sacrifice. HYMN LVII. Ksetrapati, Etc. 1. WE through the Master of the Field, even as through a friend, obtain What nourisheth our kine and steeds. In such may he be good to us. 2 As the cow yieldeth milk, pour for us freely, Lord of the Field, the wave that beareth sweetness, Distilling meath, well-purified like butter, and let the. Lords of holy Law be gracious. 3 Sweet be the plants for us. the heavens, the waters, and full of sweets for us be air's mid-region. May the Field's Lord for us be full of sweetness, and may we follow after him uninjured. 4 Happily work our steers and men, may the plough furrow happily. Happily be the traces bound; happily may he ply the goad. 5 Suna and Sira, welcome ye this laud, and with the milk which ye have made in heaven

5 Suna and Sira, welcome ye this laud, and with the milk which ye have made in heaven Bedew ye both this earth of ours. 6 Auspicious Sita, come thou near: we venerate and worship thee That thou mayst bless and prosper us and bring us fruits abundantly. 7 May Indra press the furrow down, may Pusan guide its course aright. May she, as rich in milk, be drained for us through each succeeding year. 8 Happily let the shares turn up the ploughland, happily go the ploughers with the oxen. With meath and milk Parjanya make us happy. Grant us prosperity, Suna and Sira. HYMN LVIII. Ghrta. 1. FORTH from the ocean sprang the wave of sweetness: together with the stalk it turned to Amrta, That which is holy oil's mysterious title: but the Gods' tongue is truly Amrta's centre. 2 Let us declare aloud the name of Ghrta, and at this sacrifice hold it up with homage. So let the Brahman hear the praise we utter. This hath the four-horned Buffalo emitted. 3 Four are his horns, three are the feet that bear him; his heads are two, his hands are seven in number. Bound with a triple bond the Steer roars loudly: the mighty God hath entered in to mortals. 4 That oil in triple shape the Gods discovered laid down within the Cow, concealed by Panis. Indra produced one shape, Surya another: by their own power they formed the third from Vena. 5 From inmost reservoir in countless channels flow down these rivers which the foe beholds not.

I look upon the streams of oil descending, and lo! the Golden Reed is there among them. 6 Like rivers our libations flow together, cleansing themselves in inmost heart and spirit. The streams of holy oil pour swiftly downward like the wild beasts that fly before the bowman. 7 As rushing down the rapids of a river, flow swifter than the wind the vigorous currents, The streams of oil in swelling fluctuation like a red courser bursting through the fences. 8.Like women at a gathering fair to look on and gently smiling, they incline to Agni. The streams of holy oil attain the fuel, and Jatavedas joyfully receives them. 9 As maidens dock themselves with gay adornment to join the bridal feast, I now behold them. Where Soma flows and sacrifice is ready, thither the streams of holy oil are running. 10 Send to our eulogy a herd of cattle bestow upon us excellent possessions. Bear to the Gods the sacrifice we offer the streams of oil flow pure and full of sweetness. 11 The universe depends upon thy power and might within the sea, within the heart, within all life. May we attain that sweetly-flavoured wave of thine, brought, at its gathering, o'er the surfaceof the floods.