Book Five

Let not the Dragon of the Deep annoy us, and gladly may he welcome our addresses. 17 Thus thinking, O ye Gods, the mortal wins you to give him increase of his herds of cattle: the mortal wins him, O ye Gods, your favour. Here he wins wholesome food to feed this body: as for mine old age, Nirrti consume it 18 O Gods, may we obtain from you this favour, strengthening food through the Cow's praise, ye Vasus. May she who gives good gifts, the gracious Goddes. s, come speeding nigh to us for our well-being. 19 May Ila, Mother of the herds of cattle, and Urvasi with all the streams accept us; May Urvasi in lofty heaven accepting, as she partakes the oblation of the living, 20 Visit us while she shares Urjavya's food. HYMN XLII. Visvedevas. 1. Now may our sweetest song with deep devotion reach Varuna, Mitra, Aditi, and Bhaga. May the Five Priests' Lord, dwelling in oblations, bliss-giving Asura, hear, whose paths are open. 2 May Aditi welcome, even as a mother her dear heart-gladdening son, my song that lauds her. The prayer they love, bliss-giving, God-appointed, I offer unto Varuna and Mitra. 3 In spirit him, the Sagest of the Sages; with sacrificial oil and meath bedew him So then let him, God Savitar, provide us excellent, ready, and resplendent treasures. 4 With willing mind, Indra, vouchsafe us cattle, prosperity, Lord of Bays! and pious patrons; And, with the sacred prayer by Gods appointed, give us the holy Deities' lovingkindness.

And, with the sacred prayer by Gods appointed, give us the holy Deities' lovingkindness. 5 God Bhaga, Savitar who deals forth riches, Indra, and they who conquer Vrtra's treasures, And Vaja and Rbhuksan and Purandhi, the Mighty and Immortal Ones, protect us! 6 Let us declare his deeds, the undecaying unrivalled Victor whom the Maruts follow. None of old times, O Maghavan, nor later, none of these days hath reached thy hero prowess. 7 Praise him the Chief who gives the boon of riches, Brhaspati distributor of treasures, Who, blessing most the man who sings and praises, comes with abundant wealth to his invoker. 8 Tended, Brhaspati, with thy protections, the princes are unharmed and girt by heroes. Wealth that brings bliss is found among the givers of horses and of cattle and of raiment. 9 Make their wealth flee who, through our hymns enjoying their riches, yield us not an ample guerdon. Far from the sun keep those who hate devotion, the godless, prospering in their vocation. 10 With wheelless chariots drive down him, O Maruts, who at the feasts of Gods regards the demons. May he, though bathed in sweat, form empty wishes, who blames his sacred rite who toils to serve you. 11 Praise him whose bow is strong and sure his arrow, him who is Lord of every balm that bealeth. Worship thou Rudra for his great good favour: adore the Asura, God, with salutations. 12 May the House-friends, the cunning-handed Artists, may the Steer's Wives, the streams carved out by Vibhvan,

12 May the House-friends, the cunning-handed Artists, may the Steer's Wives, the streams carved out by Vibhvan, And may the fair Ones honour and befriend us, Sarasvati, Brhaddiva, and Raka. 13 My newest song, thought that now springs within me, I offer to the Great, the Sure Protector, Who made for us this All, in fond love laying each varied form within his Daughter's bosom. 14 Now, even now, may thy fair praise, O Singer, attain Idaspati who roars and thunders, Who, rich in clouds and waters with his lightning speeds forth bedewing both the earth and heaven. 15 May this my laud attain the troop of Maruts, those who are youths in act, the Sons of Rudra. The wish calls me to riches and well-being: praise the unwearied Ones whose steeds are dappled. 16 May this my laud reach earth and air's mid-region, and forest trees and plants to win me riches. May every Deity be swift to listen, and Mother Earth with no ill thought regard me. 17 Gods, may we dwell in free untroubled bliss. 18 May we obtain the Asvins' newest favour, and gain their health-bestowing happy guidance. Bring riches hither unto us, and heroes, and all felicity and joy, Immortals! HYMN XLIII. Visvedevas. 1. MAY the Milch-cows who hasten to their object come harmless unto us with liquid sweetness. The Singer, lauding, calls, for ample riches, the Seven Mighty Ones who bring enjoyment. 2 With reverence and fair praise will I bring hither, for sake of strength, exhaustless Earth and Heaven.

2 With reverence and fair praise will I bring hither, for sake of strength, exhaustless Earth and Heaven. Father and Mother, sweetof speech, fairhanded, may they, far-famed, in every fight protect us. 3 Adhvaryus, make the sweet libations ready, and bring the beautiful bright juice to Vayu. God, as our Priest, be thou the first to drink it: we give thee of the mead to make thee joyful. 4 Two arms-the Soma's dexterous immo. lators-and the ten fingers set and fix the press-stone. The stalk hath poured, fair with its spreading branches, the mead's bright glittering juice that dwells on mountains. 5 The Soma hath been pressed for thee, its lover, to give thee power and might and high enjoyment. Invoked, turn hither in thy car, O Indra, at need, thy two well-trained and dear Bay Horses. 6 Bring by God-traversed paths, accordant, Agni, the great Aramati, Celestial Lady, Exalted, worshipped with our gifts and homage, who knoweth holy Law, to drink sweet Soma. 7 As on his father's lap the son, the darling, so on the fire is set the sacred caldron, Which holy singers deck, as if extending and heating that which holds the fatty membrane. 8 Hither, as herald to invite the Asvins, come the great lofty song, most sweet and pleasant! Come in one car, joy-givers! to the banquet, like the bolt binding pole and nave, come hither. 9 I have declared this speech of adoration to mightiest Pusan and victorious Vayu,

9 I have declared this speech of adoration to mightiest Pusan and victorious Vayu, Who by their bounty are the hymns' inspirers, and of themselves give power as a possession. 10 Invoked by us bring hither, jatavedas the Maruts all under their names and figures. Come to the sacrifice with aid all Maruts, all to the songs and praises of the singer! 11 From high heaven may Sarasvati the Holy visit our sacrifice, and from the mountain. Eager, propitious, may the balmy Goddess hear our effectual speech, our invocation. 12 Set in his seat the God whose back is dusky, Brhaspati the lofty, the Disposer. Him let us worship, set within the dwelling, the red, the golden-hued, the allresplendent. 13 May the Sustainer, high in heaven, come hither, the Bounteous One, invoked, with all his favours, Dweller with Dames divine, with plants, unwearied, the Steer with triple horn, the life-bestower. 14 The tuneful eloquent priests of him who liveth have sought the Mother's bright and loftiest station. As living men, with offered gifts and homage they deck the most auspicious Child to clothe him. 15 Agni, great vital power is thine, the mighty: pairs waxing old in their devotion seek thee. May every Deity be swift to listen, and Mother Earth with no ill thought regard me. 16 Gods, may we dwell in free untroubled bliss. 17 May we obtain the Asvins' newest favour, and gain their health-bestowing happy guidance.

17 May we obtain the Asvins' newest favour, and gain their health-bestowing happy guidance. Bring riches hither unto us, and heroes, and all felicity and joy, Immortals! HYMN XLIV. Visvedevas. 1. As in the first old times, as all were wont, as now, he draweth forth the power turned hitherward with song, The Princedom throned on holy grass, who findeth light, swift, conquering in the' plants wherein he waxeth strong. 2 Shining to him who leaves heaven's regions undisturbed, which to his sheen who is beneath show fair in light, Good guardian art thou, not to be deceived, Most Wise! Far from deceits thy name dwelleth in holy Law. 3 Truth waits upon oblation present and to come: naught checks him in his way, this vic tory- bringing Priest: The Mighty Child who glides along the sacred grass, the undecaying Youth set in the midst of plants. 4 These come, well-yoked, to you for furtherance in the rite: down come the twinborn strengtheners of Law for him, With reins easily guided and commanding all. In the deep fall the hide stealeth away their names. 5 Thou, moving beauteously in visibly pregnant ones, snatching with trees the branching plant that grasps the juice, Shinest, true Singer! mid the upholders of the voice. Increase thy Consorts thou, lively at sacrifice. 6 Like as he is beheld such is he said to be. They with effectual splendour in the floods have made Earth yield us room enough and amply wide extent, great might invincible, with store of hero sons.

Earth yield us room enough and amply wide extent, great might invincible, with store of hero sons. 7 Surya the Sage, as if unwedded, with a Spouse, in battle-loving spirit moveth o'er the foes. May he, self-excellent, grant us a sheltering home, a house that wards the fierce heat off on every side. 8 Thy name, sung forth by Rsis in these hymns of ours, goes to the loftier One with this swift mover's light. By skill he wins the boon whereon his heart is set: he who bestirs himself shall bring the thing to pass. 9 The chief and best of these abideth in the sea, nor doth libation fail wherein it is prolonged. The heart of him who praiseth trembleth not in fear there where the hymn is found connected with the pure. 10 For it is he: with though to of Ksatra, Manasa, of Yajata, and Sadhri, and Evavada, With Avatsara's sweet songs will we strive to win the mightiest strength which even he who knows should gain. 11 The Hawk is their full source, girth-stretching rapturous drink of Visvavara, of Mayin, and Yajata. They ever seek a fresh draught so that they may come, know when thy time to halt and drink thy fill is near. 12 Sadaprna the holy, Tarya, Srutavit, and Bahuvrkta, joined with you, have slain the foes. He gains his wish in both the worlds and brightly shines-when he adores the host with well-advancing steeds. 13 The worshipper's defender is Sutambhara, producer and uplifter of all holy thoughts.

13 The worshipper's defender is Sutambhara, producer and uplifter of all holy thoughts. The milch-cow brought, sweet-flavoured milk was dealt around. Who speaks the bidding text knows this, not he who sleeps. 11 The sacred hymns love him who wakes and watches: to him who watches come the Sama verses. This Soma saith unto the man who watches, I rest and have my dwelling in thy friendship. 15 Agni is watchful, and the gcas love him; Agni is watchful, Sama verses seek him. Agni is watchful, to him saith this Soma, I rest and have my dwelling in thy friendship. HYMN XLV. Visvedevas. 1. BARDS of approaching Dawn who know the heavens are come with hymns to throw the mountain open. The Sun hath risen and oped the stable portals: the doors of men, too, hath the God thrown open. 2 Surya hath spread his light as splendour: hither came the Cows' Mother, conscious, from the stable, To streams that flow with biting waves to deserts; and heaven is stablished like a firm-set pillar. 3 This laud hath won the burden of the mountain. To aid the ancient birth of mighty waters The mountain parted, Heaven performed his office. The worshippers were worn with constant serving. 4 With hymns and God-loved words will I invoke you, Indra and Agni, to obtain your favour, For verily sages, skilled in sacrificing, worship the Maruts and with lauds invite them. 5 This day approach us: may our thoughts be holy, far from us let us cast away misfortune.

5 This day approach us: may our thoughts be holy, far from us let us cast away misfortune. Let us keep those who hate us at a distance, and haste to meet the man who sacrifices. 6 Come, let us carry out, O friends, the purpose wherewith the Mother threw the Cow's stall open, That wherewith Manu conquered Visisipra, wherewith the wandering merchant gained heaven's water. 7 Here, urged by hands, loudly hath rung the press-stone wherewith Navagvas through ten months sang praises. Sarama went aright and found the cattle. Angiras gave effect to all their labours. 8 When at the dawning of this mighty Goddess, Angirases all sang forth with the cattle,- Their spring is in the loftiest place of meeting,-Sarama found the kine by Order's pathway. 9 Borne by his Coursers Seven may Surya visit the field that spreadeth wide for his long journey. Down on the Soma swooped the rapid Falcon. Bright was the young Sage moving mid his cattle. 10 Surya hath mounted to the shining ocean when he hath yoked his fair-backed Tawny Horses. The wise have drawn him like a ship through water: the floods obedient have descended hither. 11 I lay upon the Floods your hymn, lightwinning, wherewith Navagvas their ten months completed. Through this our hymn may we have Gods to guard us: through this our hymn pass safe beyond affliction. HYMN XLVI. Visvedevas. 1. WELL knowing I have bound me, horselike, to the pole: I carry that which bears as on and gives us help.

1. WELL knowing I have bound me, horselike, to the pole: I carry that which bears as on and gives us help. I seek for no release, no turning back therefrom. May he who knows the way, the Leader, guide me straight. 2 O Agni, Indra, Varuna, and Mitra, give, O ye Gods, and Marut host, and Visnu. May both Nasatyas, Rudra, heavenly Matrons, Pusan, Sarasvati, Bhaga, accept us. 3 Indra and Agni, Mitra, Varuna, Aditi, the Waters, Mountains, Maruts, Sky, and Earth and Heaven, Visnu I call, Pusan, and Brahmanaspati, and Bhaga, Samsa, Savitar that they may help. 4 May Visnu also and Vata who injures none, and Soma granter of possessions give us joy; And may the Rbhus and the Asvins, Tvastar and Vibhvan remember us so that we may have wealth. 5 So may the band of Maruts dwelling in the sky, the holy, come to us to sit on sacred grass; Brhaspati and Pusan grant us sure defence, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman guard and shelter us. 6 And may the Mountains famed in noble eulogies, and the fair-gleaming Rivers keep us safe from harm. May Bhaga the Dispenser come with power and grace, and far-pervading Aditi listen to my call. 7 May the Gods' Spouses aid us of their own freewill, aid us to offspring and the winning of the spoil. Grant us protection, O ye gracious Goddesses, ye who are on the earth or in the waters' realm. 8 May the Dames, wives of Gods, enjoy our presents, Rat, Asvini, Agnayi, and Indrani.

8 May the Dames, wives of Gods, enjoy our presents, Rat, Asvini, Agnayi, and Indrani. May Rodasi and Varunani hear us, and Goddesses come at the Matrons' season. HYMN XLVII. Visvedevas. 1. URGING to toil and making proclamation, seeking Heaven's Daughter comes the Mighty Mother: She comes, the youthful Hymn, unto the Fathers, inviting to her home and loudly calling. 2 Swift in their motion, hasting to their duty, reaching the central point of life immortal, On every side about the earth and heaven go forth the spacious paths without a limit. 3 Steer, Sea, Red Bird with strong wings, he hath entered the dwelling-place of the Primeval Father. A gay-hued Stone set in the midst of heaven, he hath gone forth and guards mid-air's two limits. 4 Four bear him up and give him rest and quiet, and ten invigorate the Babe for travel. His kine most excellent, of threefold nature, pass swiftly round the boundaries of heaven. 5 Wondrous, O people, is the mystic knowledge that while the waters stand the streams are flowing: That, separate from his Mother, Two support him, closely-united, twins, here made apparent. 6 For him they lenghten prayers and acts of worship: the Mothers weave garments for him their offspring. Rejoicing, for the Steer's impregning contact, his Spouses move on paths or heaven to meet him. 7 Be this our praise, O Varuna and Mitra may this be health and force to us, O Agni.

7 Be this our praise, O Varuna and Mitra may this be health and force to us, O Agni. May we obtain firm ground and room for resting: Glory to Heaven, the lofty habitation! HYMN XLVIII. Visvedevas. 1. WHAT may we meditate for the beloved Power, mighty in native strength and glorious in itself, Which as a magic energy seeking waters spreads even to theimmeasurable middle region's cloud? 2 O'er all the region with their uniform advance these have spread out the lore that giveth heroes strength. Back, with their course reversed, the others pass away: the pious lengthens life with those that are before. 3 With pressing-stones and with the bright beams of the day he hurls his broadest bolt against the Guileful One. Even he whose hundred wander in his own abode, driving the days afar and bringing them again. 4 I, to enjoy the beauty of his form, behold that rapid rush of his as 'twere an axe's edge, What time he gives the man who calls on him in fight wealth like a dwelling-house filled full with store of food. 5 Four-faced and nobly clad, Varuna, urging on the pious to his task, stirs himself with the tongue. Naught by our human nature do we know of him, him from whom Bhaga Savitar bestows the boon. HYMN XLIX. Visvedevas. 1. THIS day I bring God Savitar to meet you, and Bhaga who allots the wealth of mortals. You, Asvins, Heroes rich in treasures, daily seeking your friendship fain would I turn hither.

You, Asvins, Heroes rich in treasures, daily seeking your friendship fain would I turn hither. 2 Knowing full well the Asura's time of coming, worship God Savitar with hymns and praises. Let him who rightly knoweth speak with homage to him who dealeth out man's noblest treasure. 3 Not for reward doth Pusan send his blessings, Bhaga, or Aditi: his garb is splendour. May Indra, Visniu, Varuna, Mitra, Agni produce auspicious days, the Wonder-Workers. 4 Sending the shelter which we ask, the foeless Savitar and the Rivers shall approach us. When I, the sacrifice's priest, invite them, may we he lords of wealth and rich possessions. 5 They who devote such worship to the Vasus, singing their hymns to Varuna and Mitra, Vouchsafe them ample room, far off be danger. Through grace of Heaven and Earth may we be happy. HYMN L. Visvedevas. 1. LET every mortal man elect the friendship of the guiding God. Each one solicits him for wealth and seeks renown to prosper him. 2 These, leading God, are thine, and these here ready to speak after us. As such may we attain to wealth and wait with services on thee. 3 So further honour as our guests the Hero Gods and then the Dames. May he remove and keep afar our foes and all who block our path. 4 Where fire is set, and swiftly runs the victim dwelling in the trough, He wins, with heroes in his home, friendly to man, like constant streams. 5 May these thy riches, Leader God! that rule the car, be blest to us,

5 May these thy riches, Leader God! that rule the car, be blest to us, Yea, blest to us for wealth and weal. This will we ponder praising strength, this ponder as we praise the God. HYMN LI. Visvedevas. 1. WITH all assistants, Agni, come hither to drink the Soma-juice; With Gods unto our sacred gifts. 2 Come to the sacrifice, O ye whose ways are right, whose laws are true, And drink the draught with Agni's tongue. 3 O Singer, with the singers, O Gracious, with those who move at dawn, Come to the Soma-draught with Gods. 4 To Indra and to Vayu dear, this Soma, by the mortar pressed, Is now poured forth to fill the jar. 5 Vayu, come hither to the feast, wellpleased unto our sacred gifts: Drink of the Soma juice effused come to the food. 6 Ye, Indra, Vayu, well deserve to drink the juices pressed by us. Gladly accept them, spotless Pair come to the food. 7 For Indra and for Vayu pressed are Soma juices blent with curd, As rivers to the lowland flow: come to the food. 8 Associate with all the Gods, come, with the Asvins and with Dawn, Agni, as erst with Atri, so enjoy the juice. 9 Associate with Varuna, with Mitra, Soma, Visnu, come, Agni, as erstwith Atri, so enjoy the juice. 10 Associate with Vasus, with Adityas, Indra, Viyu, come, Agni as erst with Atri, so enjoy the juice. 11 May Bhaga and the Asvins grant us health and wealth, and Goddess Adid and he whom none resist. The Asura Pusan grant us all prosperity, and Heaven and Earth most wise vouchsafe us happiness.

The Asura Pusan grant us all prosperity, and Heaven and Earth most wise vouchsafe us happiness. 12 Let us solicit Vayu for prosperity, and Soma who is Lord of all the world for weal; For weal Brhaspati with all his company. May the Adityas bring us health and happiness. 13 May all the Gods, may Agni the beneficent, God of all men, this day be with us for our weal. Help us the Rbhus, the Divine Ones, for our good. May Rudra bless and keep us from calamity. 14 Prosper us, Mitra, Varuna. O wealthy Pathya, prosper us. Indra and Agni, prosper us; prosper us thou, O Aditi. 15 Like Sun and Moon may we pursue in full prosperity our path, And meet with one who gives again, -who knows us well and slays us not. HYMN LII Maruts. 1. SING boldly forth, Syavasva, with the Maruts who are loud in song, Who, holy, as their wont is, joy in glory that is free from guile. 2 For in their boldness they are friends of firm and sure heroic strength. They in their course, bold-spirited, guard all men of their own accord. 3 Like steers in rapid motion they advance and overtake the nights; And thus the Maruts' power in heaven and on the earth we celebrate. 4 With boldness to your Maruts let us offer laud and sacrifice: Who all, through ages of mankind, guard mortal man from injury. 5 Praiseworthy, givers of good gifts, Heroes with full and perfect strength - To Maruts, Holy Ones of heaven, will I extol the sacrifice.

To Maruts, Holy Ones of heaven, will I extol the sacrifice. 6 The lofty Heroes cast their spears and weapons bright with gleaming gold. After these Maruts followed close, like laughing lightning from the sky, a splendour of its own accord. 7 They who waxed mighty, of the earth, they who are in the wide mid-air, Or in the rivers' compass, or in the abode of ample heaven. 8 Praise thou the Maruts' company, the valorous and truly strong, The Heroes, hasting, by themselves have yoked their deer for victory. 9 Fair-gleaming, on Parusni they have clothed themselves in robes of wool, And with their chariot tires they cleave the rock asunder in their might. 10 Whether as wanderers from the way or speeders on or to the path, Under these names the spreading band tend well the sacrifice for me. 11 To this the Heroes well attend, well do their teams attend to this. Visible are their varied forms. Behold, they are Paravatas. 12 Hymn-singing, seeking water, they, praising, have danced about the spring. What are they unto me? No thieves, but helpers, splendid to behold. 13 Sublime, with lightnings for their spears, Sages and Orderers are they. Rsi, adore that Marut host, and make them happy with thy song. 14 Rsi, invite the Marut band with offerings, as a maid her friend. From heaven, too, Bold Ones, in your might haste hither glorified with songs. 15 Thinking of these now let him come, as with the escort of the Gods,

15 Thinking of these now let him come, as with the escort of the Gods, And with the splendid Princes, famed for rapid courses, to the gifts. 16 Princes, who, when I asked their kin, named Prsni as their Mother-cow, And the impetuous Rudra they, the Mighty Ones, declared their Sire. 17 The mighty ones, the seven times seven, have singly given me hundred gifts. I have obtained on Yamuna famed wealth in kine and wealth in steeds. HYMN LIII. Maruts. 1. Who knows the birth of these, or who lived in the Maruts' favour in the days of old What time their spotted deer were yoked? 2 Who, when they stood upon their cars, hath heard them tell the way they went? Who was the bounteous man to whom their kindred rains flowed down with food of sacrifice? 3 To me they told it, and they came with winged steeds radiant to the draught, Youths, Heroes free from spot or stain: Behold us here and praise thou us; 4 Who shine self-luminous with ornaments and swords, with breastplates, armlets, and with wreaths, Arrayed on chariots and with bows. 5 O swift to pour your bounties down, ye Maruts, with delight I look upon your cars, Like splendours coming through the rain. 6 Munificent Heroes, they have cast heaven's treasury down for the worshipper's behoof: They set the storm-cloud free tostream through both the worlds, and rainfloods flow o'er desert spots. 7 The bursting streams m billowy flood have spread abroad, like milch-kine, o'er the firmament.

7 The bursting streams m billowy flood have spread abroad, like milch-kine, o'er the firmament. Like swift steeds hasting to their journey's resting-place, to every side run glittering brooks. 8 Hither, O Maruts, come from heaven, from mid-air, or from near at hand Tarry not far away from us. 9 So let not Rasa, Krumu, or Anitabha, Kubha, or Sindhu hold you back. Let not the watery Sarayti obstruct your way. With us be all the bliss ye give. 10 That brilliant gathering of your cars, the company of Maruts, of the Youthful Ones, The rain-showers, speeding on, attend. 11 With eulogies and hymns may we follow your army, troop by troop, and band by band, And company by company. 12 To what oblation-giver, sprung of noble ancestry, have sped The Maruts on this course to-day? 13 Vouchsafe to us the bounty, that which we implore, through which, for child and progeny, Ye give the seed of corn that wasteth not away, and bliss that reacheth to all life. 14 May we in safety pass by those who slander us, leaving behind disgrace and hate. Maruts, may we be there when ye, at dawn, in rest and toil, rain waters down and balm. 15 Favoured by Gods shall he the man, O Heroes, Marutr! and possessed of noble sons, Whom ye protect. Such may we be. 16 Praise the Free-givers. At this liberal patron's rite they joy like cattle in the mead. So call thou unto them who come as ancient Friends: hymn those who love thee with a song.

So call thou unto them who come as ancient Friends: hymn those who love thee with a song. HYMN LIV. Maruts. 1. THIS hymn will I make for the Marut host who bright in native splendour cast the mountains down. Sing the great strength of those illustrious in renown, who stay the heat, who sacrifice on heights of heaven. 2 O Maruts, rich in water, strengtheners of life are your strong bands with harnessed steeds, that wander far. Trita roars out at him who aims the lightning-flash. The waters sweeping round are thundering on their way. 3 They gleam with lightning, Heroes, Casters of the Stone, wind-rapid Maruts, overthrowers of the bills, Oft through desire to rain coming with storm of hail, roaring in onset, violent and exceeding strong. 4 When, mighty Rudras, through the nights and through the days, when through the sky and realms of air, shakers of all, When over the broad fields ye drive along like ships, e'en to strongholds ye come, Maruts, but are not harmed. 5 Maruts, this hero strength and majesty of yours hath, like the Sun, extended o'er a lengthened way, When in your course like deer with splendour unsubdued ye bowed the hill that gives imperishable rain. 6 Bright shone your host, ye Sages, Maruts, when ye smote the waving tree as when the worm consumeth it. Accordant, as the eye guides him who walks, have ye led our devotion onward by an easy path. 7 Never is he, O Maruts, slain or overcome, never doth he decay ne'er is distressed or harmed;

7 Never is he, O Maruts, slain or overcome, never doth he decay ne'er is distressed or harmed; His treasures, his resources, never waste away, whom. whether he be prince or Rsi, ye direct. 8 With harnessed team like heroes overcoming troops, the friendly Maruts, laden with their water-casks, Let the spring flow, and when impetuous' they roar they inundate the earth with floods of pleasant meath. 9 Free for the Maruts is the earth with sloping ways, free for the rushing Ones is heaven with steep descents. The paths of air's mid-region are precipitous, precipitous the mountains with their running streams. 10 When, as the Sun hath risen up, ye take delight, O bounteous radiant Maruts, Heroes of the sky, Your coursers weary not when speeding on.their way, and rapidly ye reach the end of this your path. 11 Lances are on your shoulders, anklets on your feet, gold chains are on your breasts, gems, Maruts, on your car. Lightnings aglow with flame are flashing in your hands, and visors wroughtof gold are laid upon your heads. 12 Maruts, in eager stir ye shake the vault of heaven, splendid beyond conception, for its shining fruit. They gathered when they let their deeds of might flash forth. The Pious Ones send forth a far-resounding shout. 13 Sage Maruts, may we be the drivers of the car of riches ful I of life that have been given by you. O Maruts, let that wealth in thousands dwell with us which never vanishes like Tisya from the sky.

O Maruts, let that wealth in thousands dwell with us which never vanishes like Tisya from the sky. 14 Maruts, ye further wealth with longedfor heroes, further the Rsi skilled in chanted verses. Ye give the Bharata as his strength, a charger, and ye bestow a king who quickly listens. 15 Of you, most swift to succour! I solicit wealth wherewith we may spread forth mid men like as the Sun. Accept, O Maruts, graciously this hymn of mine that we may live a hundred winters through its power. HYMN LV. Maruts. 1. WITH gleaming lances, with their breasts adorned with gold, the Maruts, rushing onward, hold high power of life. They hasten with swift steeds easy to be controlled. Their cars moved onward as they went to victory. 2 Ye, as ye wist, have gained of your own selves your power: high, O ye Mighty Ones, and wide ye shine abroad. They with their strength have even measured out the sky. Their cars moved onward as they went to victory. 3 Strong, born together, they together have waxed great: the Heroes more and more have grown to majesty Resplendent as the Sun's beams in their light are they. Their cars moved onward as they went to victory. 4 Maruts, your mightiness deserves to be adored, sight to be longed for like the shining of the Sun. So lead us with your aid to immortality. Their cars moved onward as they went to victory. 5 O Maruts, from the Ocean ye uplift the rain, and fraught with vaporous moisture pour the torrents down.

5 O Maruts, from the Ocean ye uplift the rain, and fraught with vaporous moisture pour the torrents down. Never, ye Wonder-Workers, are your Milch-kine dry. Their cars moved onward as they went to victory. 6 When to your car-poles ye have yoked your spotted deer to be your steeds, and put your golden mantles on, O Maruts, ye disperse all enemies abroad. Their cars moved onward as they went to victory. 7 Neither the mountains nor the rivers keep you back: whither ye have resolved thither ye, Maruts, go. Ye compass round about even the heaven and earth. Their cars moved onward as they went to victory. Whate'er is ancient, Maruts, what of recent time, whate'er is spoken, Vasus, what is chanted forth, They who take cognizance of all of this are ye. Their cars moved onward as they went to victory. 9 Be gracious unto us, ye Maruts, slay us not extend ye unto us shelter of many a sort. Pay due regard unto our friendship and our praise. Their cars moved onward as they went to victory. 10 O Maruts, lead us on to higher fortune deliver us, when lauded, from afflictions. Accept, ye Holy Ones, the gifts we bring you. May we be masters of abundant riches. HYMN LVI. Maruts. 1. AGNI, that valorous company adorned with ornaments of gold, The people of the Maruts, I call down to-day even from the luminous realm of heaven. 2 Even as thou thinkest in thy heart, thither my wishes also tend. Those who have come most near to thine invoking calls, strengthen them fearful to behold.

Those who have come most near to thine invoking calls, strengthen them fearful to behold. 3 Earth, like a bounteous lady, liberal of her gifts, struck down and shaken, yet exultant, comes to us. Impetuous as a bear, O Maruts, is youi rush terrible as a dreadful bull.. 4 They who with mighty strength o'erthrow like oxen difficult to yoke, Cause e'en the heavenly stone to shake ' yea, shake the rocky mountain as they race along. 5 Rise up! even now with lauds I call the very numerous company, Unequalled, of these Maruts, like a herd of kine, grown up together in their strength. 6 Bind to your car the bright red mares, yoke the red coursers to your car. Bind to the pole, to draw, the fleet-foot tawny steeds, the best at drawing, to the pole. 7 Yea, and this loudly-neighing bright red vigorous horse who hath been sutioned, fair to see, Let him not cause delay, O Maruts,, in your course, urge ye him onward in your cars. 8 The Maruts' chariot, ever fain to gather glory, we invoke, Which Rodasi hath mounted, bringing pleasant gifts, with Maruts in her company. 9 I call that brilliant band of yours, adorable, rapid on the car Whereon the bounteous Dame, auspicious, nobly born, shows glorious with the Marut host. HYMN LVII. Maruts. 1. OF one accord, with Indra, O ye Rudras, come borne on your golden car for our prosperity. An offering from us, this hymn is brought to you, as, unto one who th irsts for water, heavenly springs.

An offering from us, this hymn is brought to you, as, unto one who th irsts for water, heavenly springs. 2 Armed with your daggers, full of wisdom, armed with spears, armed with your quivers, armed with arrows, with good bows, Good horses and good cars have ye, O Prsni's Sons: ye, Maruts, with good weapons go to victory. 3 From hills and heaven ye shake wealth for the worshipper: in terror at your coming low the woods bow down. Ye make the earth to tremble, Sons of Prsni, when for victory ye have yoked, fierce Ones! your spotted deer. 4 Bright with the blasts of wind, wrapped in their robes of rain, like twins of noble aspect and of lovely form, The Maruts, spotless, with steeds tawnyhued and red, strong in their mightiness and spreading wide like heaven. 5 Rich in adornment, rich in drops, munificent, bright in their aspect, yielding bounties that endure, Noble by birth, adorned with gold upon their breasts, the Singers of the sky have won immortal fame. 6 Borne on both shoulders, O ye Maruts, are your spears: within your arms is laid your energy and 3trength. Bold thoughts are in your heads, your weapons in your cars, all glorious majesty is moulded on your forms. 7 Vouchsafe to us, O Maruts, splendid bounty in cattle and in steeds, in cars and heroes. Children of Rudra, give us high distinction: may I enjoy your Godlike help and favour. 8 Ho! Maruts, Heroes, skilled in Law, immortal, be gracious unto us, ye rich in treasures,

8 Ho! Maruts, Heroes, skilled in Law, immortal, be gracious unto us, ye rich in treasures, Ye hearers of the truth, ye sage and youthful, grown mighty, dwelling on the lofty mountains. HYMN LVIII. Maruts. 1. Now do I glorify their mighty cohort, the company of these the youthful Maruts, Who ride impetuous on with rapid horses, and radiant in themselves, are Lords of Amrta. 2 The mighty glittering band, arm-bound with bracelets, givers of bliss, unmeasured in their greatness, With magical powers, bountiful, ever-roaring,-these, liberal Heroes, venerate thou singer. 3 This day may all your water-bringers, Maruts, they who impel the falling rain, approach us. This fire, O Maruts, hath been duly kindled; let it find favour with you, youthful Sages. 4 Ye raise up for the folk an active ruler whom, Holy Ones! a Master's hand hath fashioned. Ye send the fighter hand to hand, armmighty, and the brave hero, Maruts with good horses. 5 They spring forth more and more, strong in their glories, like days, like spokes where none are last in order. Highest and mightiest are the Sons of Prsni. Firm to their own intention cling the Maruts. 6 When ye have hastened on with spotted coursers, O Maruts, on your cars with strong-wrought fellies, The waters are disturbed, the woods are shattered. Let Dyaus the Red Steer send his thunder downward. 7 Even Earth hath spread herself wide at their coming, and they as husbands have with power impregned her.

7 Even Earth hath spread herself wide at their coming, and they as husbands have with power impregned her. They to the pole have yoked the winds for coursers: their sweat have they made rain, these Sons of Rudra. 8 Ho! Maruts, Heroes, skilled in Law, immortal, be gracious unto us, ye rich in treasures, Ye hearers of the truth, ye sage and youthful, grown mighty, dwelling on the lofty mountains. HYMN LIX. Maruts. 1. YOUR spy hath called to you to give prosperity. I sing to Heaven and Earth and offer sacrifice. They bathe their steeds and hasten through the firmament: they spread abroad their radiance through the sea of cloud. 2 Earth shakes and reels in terror at their onward rush, like a full ship which, quivering, lets the water in. Marked on their ways are they, visible from afar: the Heroes press between in mighty armament. 3 As the exalted horn of bulls for splendid might, as the Sun's eye set in the firmament's expanse, Like vigorous horses ye are beauteous to behold, and for your glory show like bridegrooms, O ye Men. 4 Who, O ye Maruts, may attain the mighty lore of you the mighty, who may reach your manly deeds? Ye, verily, make earth tremble like a ray of light what time ye bring your boons to give prosperity, 5 Like steeds of ruddy colour, scions of one race, as foremost champions they have battled in the van. The Heroes have waxed strong like we.1grown manly youths; with floods of rain they make the Sun's eye fade away,

The Heroes have waxed strong like we.1grown manly youths; with floods of rain they make the Sun's eye fade away, 6 Having no eldest and no youngest in their band, no middlomost, preeminent they have waxed in might, These Sons of Prsni, sprung of noble ancestry: come hitberward to us, ye bridegrooms of the sky. 7 Like birds of air they flew with might in lengthened lines from heaven's high ridges to the borders of the sky. The steeds who carry them, as Gods and mortals know, have caused the waters of the mounuains to desGend. 8 May Dyaus, the Infinite, roar for our banquet: may Dawns toil for us, glittering with moisture. Lauded by thee, these Maruts, Sons o Rudra, O Rsi, have sent down the heavenly treasure. HYMN LX. Maruts. 1. I LAUD with reverence the gracious Agni: here may he sit and part our meed among us. As with spoil-seeking cars I bring oblation: turned rightward I will swell the Marut's, praise-song. 2 The Maruts, yea, the Rudras, who have mounted their famous spotted deer and cars swift-moving,- Before you, fierce Ones! woods bow down in terror: Earth, even the mountain, trembles at your coming. 3 Though vast and tall, the mountain is affrighted, the height of heaven is shaken at your roaring When, armed with lances, ye are sporting, Maruts, and rush along together like the waters. 4 They, like young suitors, sons of wealthy houses, have with their golden natures decked their bodies.

4 They, like young suitors, sons of wealthy houses, have with their golden natures decked their bodies. Strong on their cars, the lordly Ones, for glory, have set their splendours on their forms for ever. 5 None being eldest, none among them youngest, as brothers they have grown to happy fortune. May their Sire Rudra, young and deft, and Prsni pouring much milk, bring fair days to the Maruts. 6 Whether, O blessed Maruts, ye be dwelling in highest, midmost, or in lowest heaven, Thence, O ye Rudras, and thou also, Agni, notice the sacrificial food we offer. 7 O Maruts, Lords of all, when Agni and when ye drive downward from sublimest heaven along the heights, Shakers of all, rejoicing, slayers of the foe, give riches to the Soma-pressing worshipper. 8 O Agni, with the Maruts as they gleam and sing, gathered in troop, rejoicing drink the Soma juice; With these the living ones who cleanse and further all, joined with thy banner, O Vaisvanara, from of old. HYMN LXI. Maruts. 1. O HEROES lordliest of all, who are ye that have singly come Forth from a region most remote? 2. Where are your horses, where the reins? How came ye? how had ye the power? Rein was on nose and seat on back. 3 The whip is laid upon the flank. The heroes stretch their thighs apart, Like women when the babe is born. 4 Go ye, O Heroes, far away, ye bridegrooms with a lovely Spouse That ye may warm you at the fire.

That ye may warm you at the fire. 5 May she gain cattle for her meed, hundreds of sheep and steeds and kine, Who threw embracing arms around the hero whom gyavaiva praised. 6 Yea, many a woman is more firm and better than the man who turns Away from Gods, andoffers not. 7 She who discerns the weak and worn, the man who thirsts and is in want She sets her mind upon the Gods. 8 And yet full many a one, unpraised, mean niggard, is entitled man: Only in weregild is he such. 9 And she, the young, the joyous-spirited, divulged the path to Syava, yea, to me. Two red steeds carried me to Purumilha's side, that sage of far-extended fame, 10 Him who, like Vaidadasvi, like Taranta, hath bestowed on me A hundred cows in liberal gift. 11 They who are borne by rapid steeds, drinking the meath that gives delight, They have attained high glories here. 12 They by whose splendour both the worlds are over-spread they shine on cars As the gold gleams above in heaven. 13 That Marut band is ever young, borne on bright cars, unblamable, Moving to victory, checked by none. 14 Who knoweth, verily, of these where the All-shakers take delight, Born, spotless, after sacred Law? 15 Guides are ye, lovers of the song to mortal man through holy hymn, And hearers when he cries for help. 16 Do ye, destroyers of the foe, worshipful and exceeding bright, Send down the treasures that we crave. 17 OUrmya, bear thou far away to Darbhya this my hymn of praise,

17 OUrmya, bear thou far away to Darbhya this my hymn of praise, Songs, Goddess, as if chariot-borne. 18 From me to Rathaviti say, when he hath pressed the Soma juice, The wish I had departeth not. 19 This wealthy Rathaviti dwells among the people rich in kine, Among the mountains, far withdrawn. HYMN LXII. Mitra-Varuna 1. BY your high Law firm order is established there where they loose for travel Surya's horses. Ten hundred stood together: there I looked on this the most marvellous Deities' one chief glory. 2 This, Mitra-Varuna, is your special greatness: floods that stood there they with the days attracted. Ye cause to flow all voices of the cowpen: your single chariotfelly hath rolled hither. 3 O Mitra-Varuna, ye by your greatness, both Kings, have firmly stablished earth and heaven, Ye caused the cows to stream, the plants to flourish, and, scattering swift drops, sent down the rain-flood. 4 Let your well-harnessed horses bear you hither: hitherward let them come with reins drawn tightly. A covering cloud of sacred oil attends you, and your streams flow to us from days aforetime. 5 To make the lustre wider and more famous, guarding the sacred grass with veneration, Ye, Mitra-Varuna, firm, strong, awe-inspiring, are seated on a throne amid oblations. 6 With hands that shed no blood, guarding the pious, whom, Varuni3, ye save amid oblations. Ye Twain, together, Kings of willing spirit, uphold dominion based on thousand pillars.

Ye Twain, together, Kings of willing spirit, uphold dominion based on thousand pillars. 7 Adorned with gold, its columns are of iron. in heaven it glitters like a whip for horses; Or stablished on a field deep-spoiled and fruitful. So may we share the meath that loads your car-seat. 8 Ye mount your car gold-hued at break of morning, and iron-pillared when the Sun is setting, And from that place, O Varuna and Mitra, behold infinity and limit~tion. 9 Bountiful guardians of the world! the shelter that is impenetrable, strongest, flawless, Aid us with that, O Varuna and Mitra, and when we long to win may we be victors. HYMN LXIII. Mitra-Varuna. 1. GUARDIANS of Order, ye whose Laws are ever true, in the sublimest heaven your chariot ye ascend. O Mitra-Varuna whomsoe'er ye: favour, here, to him the rain with sweetness streameth down from heaven. 2 This world's imperial Kings, O Mitra-Varuna, ye rule in holy synod, looking on the light. We pray for rain, your boon, and immortality. Through heaven and over earth the thunderers take their way. 3 Imperial Kings, strong, Heroes, Lords of earth and heaven, Mitra and Varuna, ye ever active Ones, Ye wait on thunder with the many-tinted clouds, and by the Asura's magic power cause Heaven to rain. 4 Your magic, Mitra-Varuna, resteth in the heaven. The Sun, the wondrous weapon, cometh forth as light. Ye hide him in the sky with cloud and flood of rain, and water-drops, Parjanya! full of sweetness flow.

Ye hide him in the sky with cloud and flood of rain, and water-drops, Parjanya! full of sweetness flow. 5 The Maruts yoke their easy car for victory, O Mitra-Varuna, as a hero in the wars. The thunderers roam through regions varied in their hues. Imperial Kings, bedew us with the milk of heaven. 6 Refreshing is your voice, O Mitra-Varuna: Parjanya sendeth out a wondrous mighty voice. With magic power the Maruts clothe them with the clouds. Ye Two cause Heaven to rain, the red, the spotless One. 7 Wise, with your Law and through the Asura's magic power ye guard the ordinances, Mitra-Varuna. Ye by eternal Order govern all the world. Ye set the Sun in heaven as a refulgent car. HYMN LX1V. Mitra-Varuna 1. You, foeman-slaying Varuna and Mitra, we invoke with song, Who, as with penfold of your arms, encompass round the realm of light. 2 Stretch out your arms with favouring love unto this man who singeth hymns, For in all places is sung forth your evergracious friendliness. 3 That I may gain a refuge now, may my steps be on Mitra's path. Men go protected in the charge of this dear Friend who harms us not. 4 Mitra and Varuna, from you may I, by song, win noblest meed. That shall stir envy in the homes of wealthy chiefs and those who praise. 5 With your fair splendours, Varuna and Mitra, to our gathering come, That in their homes the wealthy chiefs and they who are your friends may thrive.

That in their homes the wealthy chiefs and they who are your friends may thrive. 6 With those, moreover, among whom ye hold your high supremacy, Vouchsafe us room that we may win strength for prosperity and wealth. 7 When morning flushes, Holy Ones! in the Gods' realm where white Cows shine, Supporting Arcananas, speed, ye Heroes, with your active feet hither to my pressed Soma juice. HYMN LXV Mitra-Varuna. 1. FULL wise is he who hath discerned: let him speak to us of the Gods,- The man whose praise-songs Varuna the beautiful, or Mitra, loves. 2 For they are Kings of noblest might, of glorious fame most widely spread; Lords of the brave, who strengthen Law, the Holy Ones with every race. 3 Approaching you with prayer for aid, together I address you first We who have good steeds call on you, Most Sage, to give us strength besides. 4 E'en out of misery Mitra gives a way to dwelling at our case, For he who worships hath the grace of Mitra, fighter in the van. ' 5 In Mitra's shelter that extends to utmost distance may we dwell, Unmenaced, guarded by the care, ever as sons of Varuna. 6 Ye, Mitra, urge this people on, and to one end direct their ways. Neglect not ye the wealthy chiefs, neglect not us the Rsis: be our guardians when ye quaff the milk. HYMN LXVI. Mitra-Varuna. 1. O SAPIENT man, call the Two Gods, the very wise, who slay the foe. For Varuna, whose form is Law, place offerings for his great delight.

For Varuna, whose form is Law, place offerings for his great delight. 2 For they have won unbroken sway in full perfection, power divine. And, like high laws, the world of man hath been made beautiful as light. 3 Therefore we praise you that your cars may travel far in front of ours- You who accept the eulogy of Ratahavya with his hymns. 4 And ye show wMom, Wondrous Gods with fulness of intellIgence. By men's discernment are Ve marked, O ye whose might is purified. 5 This is the Law sublime, O Earth: to aid the Rsis' toil for fame The Two, wide-spreading, are prepared. They come with ample overflow. 6 Mitra, ye Gods with wandering eyes, would that the worshippers and we Might strive to reach the realm ye rule, most spacious and protected well, HYMN LXVII. Mitra-Varuna. 1. YE Gods, Adityas, Varuna, Aryaman, Mitra, verily Have here obtained supremest sway, high, holy, set apart for you. 2 When, Varuna and Mitra, ye sit in your golden dwelling-place, Ye Twain, supporters of mankind, foeslayers, give felicity. 3 All these, possessors of all wealth, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, Follow their ways, as if with feet, and guard from injury mortal man. 4 For they are true, they cleave to Law, held holy among every race, Good leaders, bounteous in their gifts, deliverers even from distress. 5 Which of your persons, Varuna or Mitra, merits not our praise? Therefore our thought is turned to you, the Atris' thought is turned to you.

Therefore our thought is turned to you, the Atris' thought is turned to you. HYMN LXVIII. Mitra-Varuna. 1. SING forth unto your Varuna and Mitra with a song inspired. They, Mighty Lords, are lofty Law 2 Full springs of fatness, Sovran Kings, Mitra. and Varuna, the Twain, Gods glorified among the Gods. 3 So help ye us to riches, great terrestrial and celestial wealth: Vast is your sway among the Gods. 4 Carefully tending Law with Law they have attained their vigorous might. The two Gods wax devoid of guile. 5 With rainy skies and streaming floods, Lords of the strength that bringeth gifts, A lofty seat have they attained. HYMN LXIX. Mitra-Varuna. 1. THREE spheres of light, O Varuna, three heavens, three firmaments ye comprehend, O Mitra: Waxed strong, ye keep the splendour of dominion, guarding the Ordinance that lasts for ever. 2 Ye, Varuna, have kine who yield refreshment; Mitra, your floods pour water full of sweetness. There stand the Three Steers, splendid in their brightness, who fill the three world-bowls with genial moisture. 3 I call at dawn on Aditi the Goddess, I call at noon and when the Sun is setting. I pray, O Mitra-Varuna, for safety, for wealth and progeny, in rest and trouble. 4 Ye who uphold the region, sphere of brightness, ye who support earth's realm Divine Adityas, The Immortal Gods, O Varuna and Mitra, never impair your everlasting statutes. HYMN LXX. Mitra-Varuna.

HYMN LXX. Mitra-Varuna. 1. EVEN far and wide, O Varuna and Mitra, doth your grace extend. May I obtain your kind good-will. 2 From you, benignant Gods, may we gain fully food for sustenance. Such, O ye Rudras, my we be. 3 Guard us, O Rudras. with your guar4 save us, ye skilled to save, my we Subdue the Dasyus, we ourselves, 4 Or ne'er may we, O Wondrous Strong, enjoy another's solemn feast, Ourselves, our sons, or progeny. HYMN LXXI. Mitra-Varuna. 1. O Varuna and Mitra, ye who slay the foemen, come with might To this our goodly sacrifice. 2 For, Varuna and Mitra, ye Sages are Rulers over all. Fill full our songs, for this ye can. 3 Come to the juice that we have pressed. Varuna, Mitra, come to drink This Soma of the worshipper. HYMN LXXIL Mitra-Varuna. 1 To Varuna and Mitra we offerwith songs, as Atri did. Sit on the sacred grass to drink the Soma juice. 2 By Ordinance and Law ye dwell in peace secure, bestirring men. Sit on the sacred grass to drink the Soma juice. 3 May Varuna and Mitra, for our help, accept the sacrifice. Sit on the sacred grass to drink the Soma juice. HYMN LXXIII. Asvins. 1. WHETHER, O Asvins, ye this day be far remote or near at hand, In many spots or in mid-air, come hither, Lords of ample wealth. 2 These here, who show o'er widest space, bringing full many a wondrous act, Resistless, lovingly I seek, I call the Mightiest to enjoy. 3 Another beauteous wheel have ye fixed there to decorate your car.

3 Another beauteous wheel have ye fixed there to decorate your car. With others through the realms ye roam in might unto the neighbouring tribes. 4 That deed of yours that is extolled, Visvas! hath all been done with this. Born otherwise, and spotless, ye have entered kinship's bonds with us. 5 When Surya mounted on your car that rolls for ever rapidly, Birds of red hue were round about and burning splendours compassed you. 6 Atri bethinks himself of you, O Heroes, with a friendly mind, What time, Nasatyas, with his mouth he stirs the spotless flame for you. 7 Strong is your swiftly moving steed, famed his exertion in the course When by your great deeds, Atyins, Chiefs, Atri is brought to us again. 8 Lovers of sweetness, Rudras, she who streams with sweetness waits on you. When ye have travelled through the seas men bring you gifts of well-dressed food. 9 Asvins, with truth they call you Twain bestowers of felicity; At sacrifice most prompt to hear, most gracious ye at sacrifice. 10 Most pleasing to the Asvins be these prayers which magnify their might, Which we have fashioned, even as cars high reverence have we spoken forth. HYMN LXXIV. Asvins. 1. WHERE in the heavens are ye to-day, Gods, Asvins, rich in constancy? Hear this, ye excellent as Steers: Atri inviteth you to come. 2 Where are they now? Where are the Twain, the famed Nasatyas, Gods in heaven? Who is the man ye strive to reach? Who of your suppliants is with you?

Who is the man ye strive to reach? Who of your suppliants is with you? 3 Whom do ye visit, whom approach? to whom direct your harnessed car? With whose devotions are ye pleased? We long for you to further us. 4 Ye, Strengtheners, for Paura stir the filler swimming in the flood, Advancing to be captured like a lion to the ambuscade. 5 Ye from cyavana worn with age removed his skin as 'twere a robe. So, when ye made him young again, he stirred the longing of a dame. 6 Here is the man who lauds you both: to see your glory are we here. Now bear me, come with saving help, ye who are rich in store of wealth. 7 Who among many mortal men this day hath won you to himself? What bard, accepters of the bard? Who, rich in wealth! with sacrifice? 8 O Asvins, may your car approach, most excellent of cars for speed. Through many regions may our praise pass onward among mortal men. 9 May our laudation of you Twain, lovers of meath! be sweet to you. Fly hitherward, ye wise of heart, like falcons with your winged steeds. 10 O Asvins, when at any time ye listen to this call of mine, For you is dainty food prepared: they mix refreshing food for you. HYMN LXXV. Asvins. 1. To meet your treasure-bringing car, the mighty car most dear to us, Asvins, the Rsi is prepared, your raiser, with his song of praise. Lovers of sweetness, hear my call. 2 Pass, O ye Asvins, pass away beyond all tribes of selfish men,

2 Pass, O ye Asvins, pass away beyond all tribes of selfish men, Wonderful, with your golden paths, most gracious, bringers of the flood. Lovers of sweetness, hear my call. 3 Come to us, O ye Asvin Pair, bringing your precious treasures, come Ye Rudras, on your paths of gold, rejoicing, rich in store of wealth. Lovers of sweetness, hear my call. 4 O strong and Good, the voice of him who lauds you well cleaves to your car. And that great beast, your chariot-steed, fair, wonderful, makes dainty food. Lovers of sweetness, hear my call. 5 Watchful in spirit, born on cars, impetuous, listing to his cry, Asvins, with winged steeds ye speed down to cyavana void of guile. Lovers of sweetness, hear my call. 6 Hither, O Heroes, let your steeds, of dappled hue, yoked at the thought, Your flying steeds, O Asvins, bring you hitherward, with bliss, to drink. Lovers of sweetness, hear my call. 7 O Asvins, hither come to us; Nasatyas, be not disinclined. Through longing for the pious turn out of the way to reach our home. Lovers of sweetness, bear my call. 8 Ye Lords of Splendour, free from guile, come, stand at this our sacrifice. Beside the singer, Asvins, who longs for your grace and lauds you both. Lovers of sweetness, hear my call. 9 Dawn with her white herd hath appeared, and in due time hath fire been placed. Harnessed is your immortal car, O WonderWorkers, strong and kind. Lovers of sweetness, bear my call.

Harnessed is your immortal car, O WonderWorkers, strong and kind. Lovers of sweetness, bear my call. HYMN LXXVI. Asvins 1. AGNI, the bright face of the Dawns, is shining; the singers' pious voices have ascended. Borne on your chariot, Asvins, turn you hither and come unto our full and rich libation. 2 Most frequent guests, they scorn not what is ready: even now the lauded Asvins are beside us. With promptest aid they come at morn and evening, the worshipper's most blessed guards from trouble. 3 Yea, come at milking-time, at early morning, at noon of day and when the Sun is setting, By day, by night, with favour most auspicious. Not only now the draught hath drawn the Asvins. 4 For this place, Asvins, was of old your dwelling, these were your houses, this your habitation. Come to us from high heaven and from the mountain. Come from the waters bringing food and vigour. 5 May we obtain the Asvins' newest favour, and gain their health-bestowing happy guidance. Bring riches hither unto us, and heroes, and all felicity and joy, Immortals! HYMN LXXVII. Asvins. 1. FIRST worship those who come at early morning: let the Twain drink before the giftless niggard. The Asvins claim the sacrifice at daybreak: the sages yielding the first share extol them. 2 Worship at dawn and instigate the Asvins:nor is the worshipper at eve rejected. Besides ourselves another craves and worships: each first in worship is most highly favoured.