Wednesday, July 25, 2012

The Vedas – Rrugvedah – Part 7





















1.1.1       Mantra 38 – Savitar (Authors: Grtsamada Saunahotra; later Grtsamada Saunaka)

1. UPRISEN is Savitar, this God, to quicken, Priest who neglects not this most constant duty.
To the Gods, verily, he gives rich treasure, and blesses him who calls them to the banquet.
2 Having gone up on high, the God broadhanded spreads his arms widely forth that all may mark him.
Even the waters bend them to his service: even this wind rests in the circling region.
3 Though borne by swift steeds he will yet unyoke them: e'en the fleet chariot hath he stayed from going.
He hath checked e'en their haste who glide like serpents. Night closely followed Savitar's dominion.
4 What was spread out she weaves afresh, re-weaving: the skilful leaves his labour half-completed.
He hath arisen from rest, and parted seasons: Savitar hath approached, God, holy-minded.
5 Tlirough various dwellings, through entire existence, spreads, manifest, the household light of Agni.
The Mother gives her Son the goodliest portion, and Savitar hath sped to meet his summons.
6 He comes again, unfolded, fain for conquest: at home was he, the love of all things moving.
Each man hath come leaving his evil doings, after the Godlike Savitar's commandment.
7 The wild beasts spread through desert places seeking their watery share which thou hast set in waters.
The woods are given to the birds. These statutes of the God Savitar none disobeyeth.
8 With utmost speed, in restless haste at sunset Varuna seeks his watery habitation.
Then seeks each bird his nest, each beast his lodging. In due place Savitar hath set each creature.
9 Him whose high law not Varuna nor Indra, not Mitra, Aryaman, nor Rudra breaketh,
Nor evil-hearted fiends, here for my welfare him I invoke, God Savitar, with worship.
10 May they who strengthen bliss, and thought and wisdom, and the Dames' Lord and Narasamsa aid us.
That good may come to us and wealth be gathered, may we be Savitar the God's beloved.
11 So come to us our hearts' desire, the bounty bestowed by thee, from heaven and earth and waters,
That it be well with friends and those who praise thee, and, Savitar, with the loud-lauding singer.

1.1.2       Mantra 39 – Ashvins (Authors: Grtsamada Saunahotra; later Grtsamada Saunaka)

1. SING like the two press-stones for this same purpose; come like two misers to the tree of treasure;
Like two laud-singing Brahmans in the assembly, like the folk's envoys called in many places.
2 Moving at morning like two chr-borne heroes, like to a pair of goats ye come electing;
Like two fair dames embellishing their bodies, like a wise married pair among the people.
3 Like to a pair of horns come first to usward, like to a pair of hoofs with rapid motion;
Come like two Cakavas in the grey of morning, come like two chariot wheels at dawn, ye Mighty.
4 Bear us across the rivers like two vessels, save us as ye were yokes, naves, spokes and fellies.
Be like two dogs that injure not our bodies; preserve us, like two crutches, that we fall not.
5 Like two winds ageing not, two confluent rivers, come with quick vision like two eyes before us.
Come like two hands most helpful to the body, and guide us like two feet to what is precious.
6 Even as two lips that with the mouth speak honey, even as two breasts that nourish our existence,
Like the two nostrils that protect our being, be to us as our ears that hear distinctly.
7 Like two hands give ye us increasing vigour; like heaven and earth constrain the airy regions.
Asvins, these hymns that struggle to approach you, sharpen ye like an axe upon a whetstone.
8 These prayers of ours exalting you, O Asvins, have the GrtSamadas, for a laud, made ready.
Welcome them, O ye Heroes, and come bither. Loud may we speak. with brave men, in assembly.

1.1.3       Mantra 40 – Soma and Pusan (Authors: Grtsamada Saunahotra; later Grtsamada Saunaka)

1 SOMA and Pusan, Parents of all riches, Parents of earth and Parents of high heaven,
You Twain, brought forth as the whole world's protectors, the Gods have made centre of life eternal.
2 At birth of these two Gods all Gods are joyful: they have caused darkness, which we hate, to vanish.
With these, with Soma and with Pusan, India generates ripe warm milk in the raw milch-cows.
3 Soma and Pusan, urge your chariot hither, the seven-wheeIed car that measures out the region,
That stirs not all, that moves to every quarter, fivc-reined and harnessed by the thought, ye Mighty.
4 One in the heaven on high hath made his dwelling, on earth and in the firmament the other.
May they disclose to us great store of treasure, much-longed for, rich in food, source of enjoyment.
5 One of you Twain is Parent of all creatures, the otherjourneys onward all-beholding.
Soma and Pusan, aid my thought with favour: with you may we o'ercome in all encounters.
6 May Pusan stir our thought, the all-impelling, may Soma Lord of riches grant us riches.
May Aditi the perfect Goddess aid us. Loud may we speak, with heroes, in assembly.

1.1.4       Mantra 41 – Various Deities (Authors: Grtsamada Saunahotra; later Grtsamada Saunaka)

1. O VAYU, come to us with all the thousand chariots that are thine,
Team-borne, to drink the Soma juice.
2 Drawn by thy team, O Vayu, come; to thee is offered this, the pure.
Thou visitest the presser's house.
3 Indra and Vayu, drawn by teams, ye Heroes, come today and drink.
Of the bright juice when blent with milk.
4 This Soma hath been shed for you, Lawstrengtheners, Mitra-Varuna!
Listen ye here to this my call.
5 Both Kings who never injure aught seat them in their supremest home,
The thousand-pillared, firmly-based.
6 Fed with oblation, Sovran Kings, Adityas, Lords of liberal gifts.
They wait on him whose life is true.
7 With kine, Nasatyas, and with steeds, come, Asvins, Rudras, to the house
That will protect its heroes well;
8 Such, wealthy Gods! as none afar nor standing nigh to us may harm,
Yea, no malicious mortal foe.
9 As such, O longed-far Asvins, lead us on to wealth of varied sort,
Wealth that shall bring us room and rest.
10 Verily Indra, conquering all, driveth e'en mighty fear away,
For firm is he and swift to act.
11 Indra be gracious unto us: sin shall not reach us afterward,
And good shall be before us still.
12 From all the regions of the world let Indra send security,
The foe-subduer, swift to act.
13 O all ye Gods, come hitherward: hear this mine invocation, seat
Yourselves upon this sacred grass.
14 Among ihe gunahotras strong for you is this sweet gladdening draught.
Drink ye of this delightsome juice.
15 Ye Martus led by Indra, Gods with Pri§an for your bounteousest,
Hear all of you this call of mine.
16 Best Mother, best of Rivers, best of Goddesses, Sarasvati, We are, as 'twere, of no repute and dear Mother, give thou us renown.
17 In thee, Sarasvati, divine, all generations have their stay.
Be, glad with Sunahotra's sons: O Goddess grant us progeny.
18 Enriched with sacrifice, accept Sarasvati, these prayers of ours,
Thoughts which GrtSamadas beloved of Gods bring, Holy One,to thee.
19 Ye who bless sacrifice, go forth, for verily we choose you both,
And Agni who conveys our gifts.
20 This our.effectual sacrifice, reaching the sky, shall Heaven and Earth
Present unto the Gods to-day.
21 In both your laps, ye guileless Ones, the Holy Gods shall sit them down
To-day to drink the Soma here.

1.1.5       Mantra 42 – Kapinjala (Authors: Grtsamada Saunahotra; later Grtsamada Saunaka)

1. TELLING his race aloud with cries repeated, he sends his voice out as his boat a steersman.
O Bird, be ominous of happy fortune from no side may calamity befall thee.
2 Let not the falcon kill thee, nor the eagle let not the arrow-bearing archer reach thee.
Still crying in the region of the Fathers, speak here auspicious, bearing joyful tidings.
3 Bringing good tidings, Bird of happy omen, call thou out loudly southward of our dwellings,
So that no thief, no sinner may oppress us. Loud may we speak, with heroes, in assembly.

1.1.6       Mantra 43 – Kapinjala (Authors: Grtsamada Saunahotra; later Grtsamada Saunaka)

1. HERE on the right sing forth chanters of hymns of praise, even the winged birds that in due season speak.
He, like: a Sama-chanter utters both the notes, skilled in the mode of Trstup and of Gayatri.
2 Thou like the chanter-priest chantest the Sama, Bird; thou singest at libations like a Brahman's son.
Even as a vigorous horse when he comes near the mare, announce to us good forturue, Bird, on every side, proclaim in all directions happy luck, O Bird.
3 When singing here, O Bird. announce good luck to us, and when thou sittest still think on us with kind thoughts.
When flying off thou singest thou art like a lute. With brave sons in assembly may we speak aloud.

1.1.7       Mantra 44 – ??

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1.1.8       Mantra 45 – ??

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1.1.9       Mantra 46 – ??

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1.1.10  Mantra 47 – ??

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1.1.11  Mantra 48 – ??

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1.2         Mandala 3

This Mandala contains 69 Mantras (Hymns):

1.2.1       Mantra 1 – Agni (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. THOU, Agni, who wilt have the strong, hast made me the Soma's priest, to worship in assembly.
Thou shinest to the Gods, I set the pressstones. I toil; be joyful in thyself, O Agni.
2 East have we turned the rite; may the hymn aid it. With wood and worship shall they honour Agni.
From heaven the synods of the wise have learnt it: c'en for the quick and strong they seek advancement.
3 The Prudent, he whose will is pure, brought welfare, allied by birth to Heaven and Earth in kinship.
The Gods discovered in the midst of waters beautiful Agni with the Sisters' labour.
4 Him, Blessed One, the Seven strong Floods augmented, him white at birth and red when waxen mighty.
As mother mares run to their new-born you ling, so at his birth the Gods wondered at Agni.
5 Spreading with radiant limbs throughout the region, purging his power with wise purifications,
Robing himself in light, the life of waters, lie spreads abroad his high and perfect glories.
6 He sought heaven's Mighty Ones, the unconsuming, the unimpaired, not clothed and yet not naked.
Then they, ancient and young, who dwell together, Seven sounding Rivers, as one germ received him.
7 His piles, assuming every form, are scattered where flow sweet waters, at the spring of fatness;
There stood the milch-kine with full-laden udders, and both paired Mighty Mothers of the Wondrous.
8 Carefully cherished, Son of Strength, thou shoncst assuming lasting and refulgent beauties.
Full streams of fatness and sweet juice descended, there where the Mighty One grew strong by wisdom.
9 From birth he knew even his Father's bosom, he set his voices and his streams in motion;
Knew him who moved with blessed Friends in secret, with the young Dames of heaven. He stayed not hidden.
10 He nursed the Infant of the Sire and Maker: alone the Babe sucked many a teeming bosom.
Guard, for the Bright and Strong, the fellow-spouses friendly to men and bound to him in kinship.
11 The Mighty One increased in space unbounded; full many a glorious flood gave strength to Agni.
Friend of the house, within the lap of Order lay Agni, in the Sister Rivers' service.
12 As keen supporter where great waters gather, light-shedder whom the brood rejoice to look on;
He who begat, and will beget, the dawnlights, most manly, Child of Floods, is youthful Agni.
13 Him, varied in his form, the lovely Infant of floods and plants the blessed wood hath gendered.
Gods even, moved in spirit, came around him, and served him at his birth, the Strong, the Wondrous.
14 Like brilliant lightnings, mighty luminaries accompany the light-diffusing Agni,
Waxen, as 'twere in secret, in his dwelling, while in the boundless stall they milk out Amrta.
15 I sacrificing serve thee with oblations and crave with longing thy good-will and friendship.
Grant, with the Gods, thy grace to him who lauds thee, protect us with thy rays that guard the homestead.
16 May we, O Agni, thou who leadest wisely, thy followers and masters of all treasures,
Strong in the glory of our noble offspring, subdue the godless when they seek the battle.
17 Ensign of Gods hast thou become, O Agni, joy-giver, knower of all secret wisdom.
Friend of the homestead, thou hast lightened mortals: carborne thou goest to the Gods, fulfilling.
18 Within the house hath sate the King immortal of mortals, filling full their sacred synods.
Bedewed with holy oil he shineth widely, Agni, the knower of all secret wisdom.
19 Come unto us with thine auspicious friendship, come speeding, Mighty, with thy mighty succours.
Grant us abundant wealth that saves from danger, that brings a good repute, a glorious portion.
20 To thee who art of old these songs, O Agni, have I declared, the ancient and the later.
These great libations to the Strong are offiered: in every birth is Jatavedas stablished.
21 Stablished in every birth is Jatavedas, kindled perpetual by the Visvamitras.
May we rest ever in the loving-kindness, in the auspicious grace of him the Holy.
22 This sacrifice of ours do thou, O Mighty, O truly Wise, bear to the Gods rejoicing.
Grant us abundant food, thou priestly Herald, vouchsafe to give us ample wealth, O Agni.
23 As holy food, Agni, to thine'invoker give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.
To us he bore a son, and spreading offspring. Agni, be this thy gracious will to us-ward.

1.2.2       Mantra 2 – Agni (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. To him, Vaisvanara, who strengthens Holy Law, to Agni we present our praise like oil made pure.
With thoughtful insight human priests bring him anear, our Herald from of old, as an axe forms a car.
2 He made the heaven and earth resplendent by his birth: Child of two Mothers he was meet to be implored,
Agni, oblation-bearer, gracious, ever-young, infallible, rich in radiant light, the guest of men.
3 Within the range of their surpassinq power, by might, the Gods created Agni with inventive thought.
I, eager to win strength, address him, like a steed, resplendent with his brilliance, with his ample light.
4 Eager to gain, we crave from him the friendly God strength confident, choiceworthy meet to be extolled:
The Bhrgus' bounty, willing, strong with sages' lore, even Agni shining forth with light that comes from heaven.
5 For happiness, men, having trimmed the sacred grass, set Agni glorious for his strength before them here;
Yea, with raised ladles, him bright, dear to all the Gods, perfecting aims of works, Rudra of solemn rites.
6 Around thy dwelling-place, O brightly-shining Priest, are men at sacrifice, whose sacred grass is trimmed.
Wishing to do thee service, Agni, they are there, desirous of thy friendship grant them store of wealth.
7 He hath filled heaven and earth and the great realm of light, when at his birth the skilful held him in their hold.
He like a horse is led forth to the sacrifice Sage, graciously inclined, that he may win us strength.
8 Honour the oblation-bearer, him who knows fair rites, serve ye the Household Friend who knows all things that be.
He drives the chariot of the lofty ordinance: Agni most active, is the great High Priest of Gods.
9 They who are free from death, fain for him, purified three splendours of the mighty Agni, circling all.
To man, for his enjoyment, one of these they gave: the other two have passed into the sister sphere.
10 Man's sacrificial food hath sharpened like an axe, for brightness, him the Sage of men, the people's Lord,
Busied with sacred rites he mounts and he descends. He hath laid down his vital germ within these worlds.
11 He stirs with life in wombs dissimilar in kind, born as a Lion or a loudly-bellowing Bull:
Vaisvanara immortal with wide-reaching might, bestowing goods and wealth on him who offiers gifts.
12 Vaisvanara, as of old, mounted the cope of heaven, heaven's ridge, well greeted, by those skilled in noble songs.
He, as of old, producing riches for the folk, still watchful, traversesthe common way again.
13 For new prosperity we seek to Agni, him whose course is splendid, gold-haired, excellently bright,
Whom Matarisvan stablished, dweller in the heaven, meet for high praise and holy, sage and true to Law.
14 As pure and swift of course, beholder of the light, who stands in heaven's bright sphere a sign, who wakes at dawn,
Agni, the head of heaven, whom none may turn aside-to him the Powerful with mighty prayer we seek.
15 The cheerful Priest, the pure, in whom no guile is found, Friend of the House, praise-worthy, dear to all mankind,
Fair to behold for beauty like a splendid car,- Agni the Friend of men we ever seek for wealth.

1.2.3       Mantra 3 – Agni (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. To him who shines afar, Vaisvanara, shall bards give precious things that he may go on certain paths:
For Agni the Immortal serves the Deities, and therefore never breaks their everlasting laws.
2 He, wondrous envoy, goes between the earth and heaven, firm seated as the Herald, great High Priest of men.
He compassethwith rays the lofty dwelling-place, Agni, sent forward by the Gods, enriched with piayer.
3 Sages shall glorify Agni with earnest thoughts, ensign of sacrifice, who fills the synod full:
In whom the singers have stored up their holy acts to him the worshipper looks for joy and happiness.
4 The Sire of sacrifice, great God of holy bards, Agni, the measure and the symbol of the priests,
Hath entered heaven and earth that show in varied form: the Sage whom many love rejoiceth in his might.
5 Bright Agni with the bright car, Lord of green domains, Vaisvanara dweller in the floods, who finds the light,
Pervading, swift and wild, encompassed round with powers, him very glorious have the Gods established here.
6 Agni, together with the Gods and Manu's folk by thought extending sacrifice in varied form,
Goes, car-borne, to and fro with those who crown each rite, the fleet, the Household Friend, who turns the curse aside.
7 Sing, Agni, for long life to us and noble sons: teem thou with plenty, shine upon us store of food.
Increase the great man's strength, thou ever-vigilant: thou, longing for the Gods, knowest their hymns full well.
8 The Mighty One, Lord of the people and their guest, the leader of their thoughts, devoted Friend of priests,
Our solemn rites' announcer, Jatavedas, men with worship ever praise, with urgings for their weal.
9 Agni the God resplendent, giver of great joy, hath on his lovely car compassed the lands with, might.
Let us with pure laudations in his house approach the high laws of the nourisher of multitudes.
10 I celebrate thy glories, O Vaisvanara, wherewith thou, O farsighted God, has found the light.
Thou filledst at thy birth both worlds, the earth and heaven: all this, O Agni, hast thou compassed of thyself.
11 By his great skill the Sage alone hath brought to pass a great deed, mightier than Vaisvanara's wondrous acts.
Agni sprang into being, magnifying both his Parents, Heaven and Earth, rich in prolific seed.

1.2.4       Mantra 4 – Apris (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. BE friendly with each kindled log of fuel, with every flash bestow the boon of riches.
Bring thou the Gods, O God, unto our worship: serve, well-inclined, as Friend thy friends, O Agni.
2 Agni whom daily Varuna and Mitra the Gods bring thrice a day to this our worship,
Tanunapat, enrich with meath our service that dwells with holy oil, that offers honour.
3 The thought that bringeth every boon proceedeth to worship first the Priest of the libation,
That we may greet the Strong One with our homage. Urged, may he bring the Gods, best Sacrificer.
4 On high your way to sacrifice was made ready; the radiant flames went upward to the regions.
Full in the midst of heaven the Priest is seated: sirew we the sacred grass where Gods may rest them.
5 Claiming in mind the seven priests' burntoblations, inciting all, they came in settled order.
To this our sacrifice approach the many who show in hero beauty at assemblies.
6 Night and Dawn, lauded, hither come together, both smiling, different are their forms in colour,
That Varuna and Mitra may accept us, and Indra, girt by Maruts, with his glories.
7. I crave the grace of heaven's two chief Invokers: the seven swift steeds joy in their wonted manner.
These speak of truth, praising the truth eternal, thinking on Order as the guards of Order.
8 Let the three Goddesses – Bharati, the Goddess of prosperity, Ila, the Goddess of power,
and Sarasvati, the Goddess of wisdom, come and sit down amidst us.
9 Well pleased with us do thou O God, O Tvastar, give ready issue to our procreant vigour,
Whence springs the hero, powerful, skilled in action, lover of Gods, adjuster of the press-stones.
10 Send to the Gods the oblation, Lord of Forests; and let the Immolator, Agni, dress it.
He as the truer Priest shall offer worship, for the Gods' generations well he knoweth.
11 Come thou to us, O Agni, duly kindled, together with the potent Gods and Indra.
On this our grass sit Aditi, happy Mother, and let our Hail delight the Gods Immortal.

1.2.5       Mantra 5 – Agni (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. AGNI who shines against the Dawns is wakened. The holy Singer who precedes the sages.
With far-spread lustre, kindled by the pious, the Priest hath thrown both gates of darkness open.
2 Agni hath waxen mighty by laudations, to be adored with hymns of those who praise him.
Loving the varied shows of holy Order at the first flush of dawn he shines as envoy.
3 Amid men's homes hath Agni been established, fulfilling with the Law, Friend, germ of waters.
Loved and adored, the height he hath ascended, the Singer, object of our invocations.
4 Agni is Mitra when enkindled duly, Mitra as Priest, Varuna, Jatavedas;
Mitra as active minister, and House-Friend, Mitra of flowing rivers and of mountains.
5 The Earth's, the Bird's dear lofty place he guardeth, he guardeth in his might the course of Surya,
Guardeth the Seven-headed in the centre, guardeth sublime the Deities enjoyment.
6 The skilful God who knows all forms of knowledge made for himself a fair form, meet for worship.
This Agni guards with care that never ceases the Sonia's skin, the Bird's place rich in fatness.
7 Agni hath entered longingly the longing shrine rich with fatness, giving easy access.
Resplendent, pure, sublime and purifying, again, again he renovates his Mothers.
8 Born suddenly, by plants he grew to greatness, when tender shoots with holy oil increased him,
Like waters lovely when they hasten downward may Agni in his Parents' lap protect us.
9 Extolled, the Strong shone forth with kindled fuel to the earth's centre, to the height of heaven.
May Agni, Friend, adorable Matarisvan, as envoy bring the Gods unto our worship.
10 Best of all luminaries lofty Agni supported with his flame the height of heaven,
When, far from Bhrgus, Matarisvan kindled the oblation-bearer where he lay in secret.
11 As holy food, Agni to thine invoker give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.
To us be born a son and spreading offspring. Agni, be this thy gracious will to us-word.

1.2.6       Mantra 6 – Agni (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. URGED on by deep devotion, O ye singers, bring, pious ones, the God-approaching ladle.
Borne onward to the right it travels eastward, and, filled with oil, to Agni bears oblation.
2 Thou at thy birth didst fill both earth and heaven, yea, Most Adorable, thou didst exceed them.
Even through the heaven's and through the earth's expanses let thy swift seventongued flames roll on, O Agni.
3 Both Heaven and Earth and Gods who should be worshipped establish thee as Priest for every dwelling,
Whenever human families, God-devoted, bringing oblations; laud thy splendid lustre.
4 Firm in the Gods' home is the Mighty seated, between vast Heaven and Earth the well-beloved-
Those Cows who yield, unharmed, their nectar, Spouses of the Far-Strider, everyoung, united.
5 Great are the deeds of thee, the Great, O Agni: thou by thy power hast spread out earth and heaven.
As soon as thou wast born thou wast an envoy, thou, Mighty One, was Leader of the people.
6 Bind to the pole with cords of holy Order the long-maned ruddy steeds who sprinkle fatness.
Bring hithier, O thou God, all Gods together: provide them noble worship, Jatavedas.
7 Even from the sky thy brilliant lights shone hither: still hast thou beamed through many a radiant morning,
That the Gods praised their joyous Herald's labour eagerly burning, Agni, in the forests.
8 The Gods who take delight in air's wide region, or those the dwellers in heaven's realm of brightness,
Or those, the Holy, prompt to hear, our helpers, who, carborne, turn their horses hither, Agni---
9 With these, borne on one ear, Agni, approach us, or borne on many, for thy steeds are able.
Bring, witb their Dames, the Gods, the Three and-Thirty, after thy Godlike nature, and be joyful.
10 He is the Priest at whose repeated worship even wide Heaven and Earth sing out for increase.
They fair and true and holy coming forward stand at his sacrifice who springs from Order.
11 As holy food, Agni, to thine invoker give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.
To us be born a son and spreading offspring. Agni, be this thy gracious will to usward.

1.2.7       Mantra 7 – ?? (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. THE seven tones risen from the whitebacked viand have made their way between the pair of Mothers.
Both circumjacent Parents come together to yield us length of days they hasten forward.
2 The Male who dwells in heaven hath Mares and Milchkine: he came to Goddesses who bring sweet treasure.
To thee safe resting in the seat of Order the Cow alone upon her way proceedeth.
3 Wise Master, wealthy finder-out of riches, he mounted those who may with case be guided.
He, dark-backed, manifold with varied aspect, hath made them burst forth from their food the brush-wood.
4 Strength-giving streams bear hither him eternal, fain to support the mighty work. of Tvastar.
He, flashing in his home with all his members, hath entered both the worlds as they were single.
5 They know the red Bull's blessing, and are joyful under the flaming-coloured Lord's dominion:
They who give shine from heavenwith fair effulgence, whose lofty song like Ila must be honoured.
6 Yea, by tradition from the ancient sages they brought great strength from the two mighty Parents,
To where the singer's Bull, the night's dispeller, after his proper law hath waxen stronger.
7 Seven holy singers guard with five Adhvaryus the Bird's beloved firmly-settled station.
The willing Bulls, untouched by old, rejoice them: as Gods themselves the ways of Gods they follow.
8 I crave the grace of heaven's two chief Invokers: the seven swift steeds joy in their wonted manner.
These speak of truth, praising the Truth Eternal, thinking on Order as the guards of Order.
9 The many seek the great Steed as a stallion: the reins obey the Lord of varied colour.
O heavenly Priest, most pleasant, full of wisdom, bring the great Gods to us, and Earth and Heaven.
10 Rich Lord, the Mornings have gleamed forth in splendour, fair-rayed, fair-speaking, worshipped with all viands,
Yea, with the glory of the earth, O Agni. Forgive us, for our weal, e'en sin cornmitted.
11 As holy food, Agni, to thine invoker, give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.
To us be born a son, and spreading offspring Agni, be this thy gracious will to usward.

1.2.8       Mantra 8 – Sacrificial Post (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. GOD-SERVING men, O Sovran of the Forest, with heavenly meath at sacrifice anoint thee.
Grant wealth to us when thou art standing upright as when reposing on this Mother's bosom.
2 Set up to eastward of the fire enkindled, accepting prayer that wastes not, rich in hero.
Driving far from us poverty and famine, lift thyself up to bring us great good fortune.
3 Lord of the Forest, raise. thyself up on the loftiest spot of earth.
Give splendour, fixt and measured well, to him who brings the sacrifice.
4 Well-robed, enveloped he is come, the youthful: springing to life his glory waxeth greater.
Contemplative in mind and God-adoring, sages of high intelligence upraise him.
5 Sprung up he rises in the days' fair weather, increasing in the men-frequented synod.
With song the wise and skilful consecrate him: his voice the God-adoring singer utters.
6, Ye whom religious men have firmly planted; thou Forest Sovran whom the axe hath fashioned,-
Let those the Stakes divine which here are standing be fain to grant us wealth with store of children.
7 O men who lift the ladles up, these hewn and planted in the ground,
Bringing a blessing to the field, shall bear our precious gift to Gods.
8 Adityas, Rudras, Vasus, careful leaders, Earth, Heaven, and Prthivi and Air's mid-region,
Accordant Deities shall bless our worship and make our sacrifice's ensign lofty.
9 Like swan's that flee in lengthened line, the Pillars have come to us arrayed in brilliant coIour.
They, lifted up on high, by sages, eastward, go forth as Gods to the God's dwelling-places.
10 Those Stakes upon the earth with rings that deck them seem to the eye like horns of horned creatures;
Or, as upraised by priests in invocation, let them assist us in the rush to battle.
11 Lord of the Wood, rise with a hundred branches. with thousand branches may we rise to greatness,
Tlou whom this hatchct, with an edge well whetted for great felicity, hath brought before us.

1.2.9       Mantra 9 – ?? (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. WE as thy friends have chosen thee, mortals a God, to be our help,
The Waters' Child, the blessed, the resplendent One, victorious and beyond compare.
2 Since thou delighting in the woods hast gone unto thy mother streams,
Not to be scorned, Agni, is that return of thine when from afar thou now art here.
3 O'er pungent smoke host thou prevailed, and thus art thou benevolent.
Some go before, and others round about thee sit, they in whose friendship thou hast place.
4 Him who had passed beyond his foes, beyond continual pursuits, Him the unerring Ones, observant, found in floods, couched like a lion in his lair.
5 Him wandering at his own free will, Agni here hidden from our view,
Him Matarisvan brought to us from far away produced by friction, from the Gods.
6 O Bearer of Oblations, thus mortals received thee from the Gods,
Whilst thou, the Friend of man, guardest each sacrifice with thine own power, Most Youthful One.
7 Amid thy wonders this is good, yea, to the simple is it clear,
When gathered round about thee, Agni, lie the herds where thou art kindled in the morn.
8 Offer to him who knows fair rites, who burns with purifying glow,
Swift envoy, active, ancient, and adorable: serve ye the God attentively.
9 Three times a hundred Gods and thrice a thousand, and three times ten and nine have worshipped Agni,
For him spread sacred grass, with oil bedewed him, and stablished him as Priest and Sacrificer.

1.2.10  Mantra 10 – Agni (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. THEE Agni, God, Imperial Lord of all mankind, do mortal men
With understanding kindle at thesacrifice.
2 They laud thee in their solemn rites, Agni, as Minister and Priest,
Shine forth in thine own home as guardian of the Law.
3 He, verily, who honours thee with fuel, Knower of all life,
He, Agni! wins heroic might, he prospers well.
4 Ensign of sacrifices, he, Agni, with Gods is come to us,
Decked by the seven priests, to him who bringeth gifts.
5 ToAgni, the Invoking Priest, offer your best, your lofty speech,
To him Ordainer-like who brings the light of songs.
6 Let these our hymns make Agni grow, whence, meet for laud, he springs to life,
To mighty strength and great possession, fair to see.
7 Best Sacrificer, bring the Gods, O Agni, to the pious man:
A joyful Priest, thy splendour drive our foes afar
8 As such, O Purifier, shine on us heroic glorious might:
Be nearest Friend to those who laud thee, for their weal.
9 So, wakeful, versed in sacred hymns, the holy singers kindly thee.
Oblation-bearer, deathless, cherisher of strength.

1.2.11  Mantra 11 – Agni (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. AGNI is Priest, the great High Priest of sacrifice, most swift in act:
He knows the rite in constant course.
2 Oblation-bearer, deathless, well inclined, an eager messenger,
Agni comes nigh us with the thought.
3 Ensign of sacrifice from of old, Agni well knoweth with his thought
To prosper this man's aim and hope.
4 Agni, illustrious from old time, the Son of Strength who knows all life,
The Gods have made to their Priest.
5 Infallible is Agni, he who goes before the tribes of men,
A chariot swift and ever new.
6 Strength of the Gods which none may harm, subduing all his enemies,
Agni is mightiest in fame.
7 By offering sacred food to him the mortal worshipper obtains.
A home from him whose light makes pure.
8 From Agni, by our hymns, may we gain all things that bring happiness,
Singers of him who knows all life.
9 O Agni, in our deeds of might may we obtain all precious things:
The Gods are centred all in thee.

1.2.12  Mantra 12 – Indra-Agni (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. MOVED, Indra-Agni, by our hymn, come to the juice, the precious dew:
Dr.ink ye thereof, impelled by song.
2 O Indra-Agni, with the man who lauds you comes the wakening rite:
So drink ye both this juice assured.
3 Through force of sacrifice I choose Indra-Agni who love the wise:
With Sorna let these sate them here.
4 Indra and Agni I invoke, joint-victors, bounteous, unsubdued,
Foe-slayers, best to win the spoil.
5 Indra and Agni, singers skilled in melody hymn you, bringing lauds:
I choose you for the sacred food.
6 Indra and Agni, ye cast down the ninety forts which DAsas held,
Together, with one mighty deed.
7 To Indra-Agni eeverent thoughts go forward from the holy task
Along the path of sacred Law.
8 O Indra-Agni, powers are yours, and dwellings and delightful food
Good is your readiness to act.
9 Indra and Agni, in your deeds of might ye deck heaven's lucid realms:
Famed is that hero strength of yours.

1.2.13  Mantra 13 – Agni (Author: Rsabha Vaisvamitra)

1. To Agni, to this God of yours I sing aloud with utmost power.
May he come to us with the Gods, and sit, best Offerer, on the grass.
2 The Holy, whose are earth and heaven, and succour waits upon his strength;
Him men who bring oblations laud, and they who wish to gain, for grace.
3 He is the Sage who guides these men, Leader of sacred rites is he.
Him your own Agni, serve ye well, who winneth and bestoweth wealth.
4 So may the gracious Agni grant most goodly shelter for our use;
Whence in the heavens or in the floods he shall pour wealth upon our lands.
5 The singers kindle him, the Priest, Agni the Lord of tribes of men,
Resplendent and without a peer through his own excellent designs.
6 Help us, thou Brahman, best of all invokers of the Gods in song.
Beam, Friend of Maruts, bliss on us, O Agni, a most liberal God.
7 Yea, grant us treasure thousandfold with children and with nourishment,
And, Agni, splendid hero strength, exalted, wasting not away.

1.2.14  Mantra 14 – Agni (Author: Rsabha Vaisvamitra)

1 THE pleasant Priest is come into the synod, true, skilled in sacrifice, most wise, Ordainer.
Agni, the Son of Strength, whose car is lightning, whose hair is flame, hath shown on earth his lustre.
2 To thee I offer reverent speech: accept it: to thee who markest it, victorious, faithful!
Bring, thou who knowest, those who know, and seat thee amid the sacred grass, for help, O Holy.
3 The Two who show their vigour, Night and Morning, by the wind's paths shall haste to thee O Agni.
When men adorn the Ancient with oblations, these seek, as on two chariot-seats, the dwelling.
4 To thee, strong Agni! Varuna and Mitra and all the Maruts sang a song of triumph,
What time unto the people's lands thou camest, spreading them as the Sun of men, with lustre.
5 Approaching with raised hands and adoration, we have this day fulfilled for thee thy longing.
Worship the Gods with most devoted spirit, a Priest with no unfriendly thought, O Agni.
6 For, Son of Strength, from thee come many succours, and powers abundant that a God possesses.
Agni, to us with speech that hath no falsehood grant riches, real, to be told in thousands.
7 Whatever, God, in sacrifice we mortals have wrought is all for thee, strong, wise of purpose!
Be thou the Friend of each good chariot's master. All this enjoy thou here, immortal Agni.

1.2.15  Mantra 15 – Agni (Author: Utkila Katya)

1. RESPLENDENT with thy wide-extending lustre, dispel the terrors of the fiends who hate us
May lofty Agni be my guide and shelter, the easily-invoked, the good Protector.
2 Be thou To us, while now the morn is breaking, be thou a guardian when the Sun hath mounted..
Accept, as men accept a true-born infant, my laud, O Agni nobly born in body.
3 Bull, who beholdest men, through many mornings, among the dark ones shine forth red, O Agni.
Lead us, good Lord, and bear us over trouble: Help us who long, Most Youthful God, to riches.
4 Shine forth, a Bull invincible, O Agni, winning by conquest all the forts and treasures,
Thou Jatavedas who art skilled in guiding, the chief high saving sacrifice's Leader.
5 Lighting Gods hither, Agni, wisest Singer, bring thou to us many and flawless shelters.
Bring vigour, like a car that gathers booty: bring us, O Agni, beauteous.Rarth and Heaven.
6 Swell, O thou Bull and give those powers an impulse, e'en Earth and Heaven who yield their milk in plenty,
Shining, O God, with Gods in clear effulgence. Let not a mortal's evil will obstruct us.
7 Agni, as holy food to thine invoker, give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.
To us be born a son and spreading ofrspring. Agni, be this thy gracious will to us-ward.

1.2.16  Mantra 16 – Agni (Author: Utkila Katya)

1. THIS Agni is the Lord of great felicity and hero Strength;
Lord of wealth in herds of kine; Lord of the battles with the foe.
2 Wait, Maruts, Heroes, upon him the Prosperer in whom is bliss-increasing wealth;
Who in fights ever conquer evil-hearted men, who overcome the enemy.
3 As such, O Agni, deal us wealth and hero might, O Bounteous One!
Most lofty, very glorious, rich in progeny, free from disease and full of power.
4 He who made all that lives, who passes all in might, who orders service to the Gods,
He works among the Gods, he works in hero strength, yea, also in the praise of men.
5 Give us not up to indigence, Agni, nor want of hero sons,
Nor, Son of Strength, to lack of cattle, nor to blame. Drive. thou our enemies away.
6 Help us to strength, blest Agni! rich in progeny, abundant, in our sacrifice.
Flood us with riches yet more plenteous, bringing weal, with high renown, most Glorious One!

1.2.17  Mantra 17 – Agni (Author: Kata Vaisvamitra)

1. DULY enkindled after ancient customs, bringing all treasures, he is balmed with unguents,-
Flame-haired, oil-clad, the purifying Agni, skilled in fair rites, to bring the Gods for worship.
2 As thou, O Agni, skilful Jatavedas, hast sacrificed as Priest of Earth, of Heaven,
So with this offering bring the Gods, and prosper this sacrifice today as erst for Manu.
3 Three are thy times of life, O Jatavedas, and the three mornings are thy births, O Agni.
With these, well-knowing, grant the Gods' kind favour, and help in stir aiid stress the man who worships.
4 Agni most bright and fair with song we honour, yea, the adorable, O Jatavedas.
Thee, envoy, messenger, oblation-bearer, the Gods have made centre of life eternal.
5 That Priest before thee, yet more skilled in worship, stablished of old, healthgiver by his nature,-
After his custom offer, thou who knowest, and lay our sacrifice where Gods may taste it.

1.2.18  Mantra 18 – Agni (Author: Kata Vaisvamitra)

1. AGNI, be kind to us when we approach thee good as a friend to friend, as sire and mother.
The races of mankind are great oppressors burn up malignity that strives against us.
2 Agni, burn up the unfriendly who are near us, burn thou the foeman's curse who pays no worship.
Burn, Vasu, thou who markest well, the foolish: let thine eternal nimble beams surround thee.
3 With fuel, Agni, and with oil, desirous, mine offering I present for strength and conquest,
With prayer, so far as I have power, adoring-this hymn divine to gain a hundred treasures.
4 Give with thy glow, thou Son of Strength, when lauded, great vital power to those who toil to serve thee.
Give richly, Agni, to the Visvamitras in rest and stir. Oft have we decked thy body.
5 Give us, O liberal Lord, great gtore of riches, for, Agni, such art thou when duly kindled.
Thou in the happy singer's home bestowest, amply with arms extended, things of beauty.

1.2.19  Mantra 19 – Agni (Author: Gathin Kausika)

1. Aow, quick, sage, infallible, all-knowing, I choose to be our Priest at this oblation.
In our Gods' service he, best skilled, shall worship: may he obtain us boons for strength and riches.
2 Agni, to thee I lift the oil-fed ladle, bright, with an offering, bearing our oblation.
From the right hand, choosing the Gods' attendance, he with rich presents hath arranged the worship.
3 Of keenest spirit is the man thou aidest give us good offspring, thou who givest freely.
In power of wealth most rich in men. O Agni, of thee, the Good, may we sing forth fair praises.
4 Men as they worship thee the God, O Agni, have set on thee full many a brilliant, aspect.
So bring Most Youthful One, the Gods' asserrigly, the Heavenly Host which thou to-day shalt honour.
5 When Gods anoint thee Priest at their oblation, and seat thee for thy task as Sacrificer,
O Agni, be thou here our kind defender, and to ourselves vouchsafe the gift of glory.

1.2.20  Mantra 20 – Agni (Author: Gathin Kausika)

1. WITH lauds at break of morn the priest invoketh Agni, Dawn, Dadhikras, and both the Asvins.
With one consent the Gods whose light is splendid, longing to taste our sacrifice, shall hear us.
2 Three are thy powers, O Agni, three thy stations, three are thy tongues, yea, many, Child of Order!
Three bodies hast thou which the Gods delight in: with these protect our hymns with care unceasing.
3 O Agni, many are the names thou bearest, immortal, God, Divine, and Jatavedas.
And many charms of charmers, All-Inspirer! have they laid in thee, Lord of true attendants!
4 Agni, like Bhaga, leads the godly people, he who is true to Law and guards the seasons.
Ancient, all-knowing, he the Vrtra-slayer shall bear the singer safe through every trouble.
5 I call on Savitar the God, on Morning, Brhaspati, and Dadhikras, and Agni,
On Varuna and Mitra, on the Asvins, Bhaga, the Vasus, Rudras and Adityas.

1.2.21  Mantra 21 – Agni (Author: Gathin Kausika)

1. SET this our sacrifice among the Immortals: be pleased with these our presents, Jatavedas.
O Priest, O Agni, sit thee down before us, and first enjoy the drops of oil and fatness.
2 For thee, O Purifier, flow the drops of fatness rich in oil.
After thy wont vouchsafe to us the choicest boon that Gods may feast.
3 Agni, Most Excellent! for thee the Sage are drops that drip with oil.
Thou art enkindled as the best of Seers. Help thou the sacrifice.
4 To thee, O Agni, mighty and resistless, to thee stream forth the drops of oil and fatness.
With great light art thou come, O praised by poets! Accept our offering, O thou Sage.
5 Fatness exceeding rich, extracted from the midst,-this as our gift we offer thee.
Excellent God, the drops run down upon thy skin. Deal them to each among the Gods.

1.2.22  Mantra 22 – Agni (Author: Gathin Kausika)

1 THIS is that Agni whence the longing Indra took the pressed Soma deep within his body.
Winner of spoils in thousands, like a courser, with praise art thou exalted, Jatavedas.
2 That light of thine in heaven and earth, O Agni, in plants, O Holy One, and in the waters,
Wherewith thou hast spread wide the air's mid-region-bright is that splendour, wavy, man-beholding.
3 O Agni, to the sea of heaven thou goest: thou hast called hither Gods beheld in spirit.
The waters, too, come hither, those up yonder in the Sun's realm of light, and those beneath it.
4 Let fires that dwell in mist, combined with those that have their home in floods,
Guileless accept our sacrifice, great viands free from all disease.
5 Agni, as holy food to thine invoker give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.
To us be born a son and spreading offspring. Agni, be this thy gracious will to us-ward.

1.2.23  Mantra 23 – Agni (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. RUBBED into life, well stablished in the dwelling, Leader of sacrifice, the Sage, the youthful,
Here in the wasting fuel Jatavedas, eternal, hath assumed immortal being.
2 Both Bharatas, Devasravas, Devavata, have strongly rubbed to life effectual Agni.
O Agni, look thou forth with ample riches: be, every day, bearer of food to feed us.
3 Him nobly born of old the fingers ten produced, him whom his Mothers counted dear.
Praise Devavata's Agni, thou Devasravas, him who shall be the people's Lord.
4 He set thee in the earth's most lovely station, in Ila's place, in days of fair bright weather.
On man, on Apaya, Agni! on the rivers Drsadvati, Sarasvati, shine richly.
5 Agni, as holy food to thine invoker give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.
To us be born a son and spreading offspring Agni, be this thy gracious will to us-ward

1.2.24  Mantra 24 – Agni (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. AGNI, subdue opposing bands, and drive our enemies away.
Invincible, slay godless foes: give splendour to the worshipper.
2 Lit with libation, Agni, thou, deathless, who callest Gods to feast,
Accept our sacrifice with joy.
3 With splendour, Agni, Son of Strength, thou who art worshipped, wakeful One.
Seat thee on this my sacred grass.
4 With all thy fires, with all the Gods, Agni, exalt the songs we sing.
And living men in holy rites.
5 Grant, Agni, to the worshipper wealth rich in heroes, plenteous store,
Make thou us rich with many sons.

1.2.25  Mantra 25 – Agni (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. THOU art the sapient Son of Dyaus, O Agni, yes and the Child of Earth, who knowest all things.
Bring the Gods specially, thou Sage, for worship.
2. Agni the wise bestows the might of heroes grants strengthening food, preparing it for nectar.
Thou who art rich in food bring the Gods hither.
3 Agni, infallible, lights Earth and Heaven, immortal Goddesses gracious to all men,-
Lord through his strength, splendid through adorations.
4 Come to the sacrifice, Agni and Indra come to the offerer's house who hath the Soma.
Come, friendly-minded, Gods, to drink the Soma.
5 In the floods' home art thou enkindled, Agni, O Jatavedas, Son of Strength, eternal,
Exalting with thine help the gatheringplaces.

1.2.26  Mantra 26 – Agni (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. REVERING in our heart Agni Vaisvanara, the finder of the light, whose promises are true,
The liberal, gladsome, car-borne God we Kusikas invoke him with oblation, seeking wealth with songs.
2 That Agni, bright, Vaisvanara, we invoke for help, and Matarisvan worthy of the song of praise;
Brhaspati for man's observance of the Gods, the Singer prompt to hear, the swiftly-moving guest.
3 Age after age Vaisvanara, neighing like a horse, is kindled with the women by the Kusikas.
May Agni, he who wakes among Immortal Gods, grant us heroic strength and wealth in noble steeds.
4 Let them go forth, the strong, as flames of fire with might. Gathered for victory they have yoked their spotted deer.
Pourers of floods, the Maruts, Masters of all wealth, they who can ne'er be conquered, make the mountains shake.
5 The Maruts, Friends of men, are glorious as the fire: their mighty and resplendent succour we implore.
Those storming Sons of Rudra clothed in robes of rain, boon-givers of good gifts, roar as the lions roar.
6 We, band on band and troop following troop, entreat with fair lauds Agni's splendour and the Maruts' might,
With spotted deer for steeds, with wealth that never fails, they, wise Ones, come to sacrifice at our gatherings.
7 Agni am I who know, by birth, all creatures. Mine eye is butter, in my mouth is nectar.
I am light threefold, measurer of the region exhaustless heat am I, named burnt-oblation.
8 Bearing in mind a thought with light accordant, he purified the Sun with three refinings;
By his own nature gained the highest treasure, and looked abroad over the earth and heaven.
9 The Spring that fails not with a hundred streamlets, Father inspired of' prayers that men should utter,
The Sparkler, joyous in his Parents' bosorn, -him, the Truth-speaker, sate ye, Earth and Heaven.

1.2.27  Mantra 27 – Agni (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. IN ladle dropping oil your food goes in oblation up to heaven,
Goes to the Gods in search of bliss.
2 Agni I laud, the Sage inspired, crowner of sacrifice through song,
Who listens and gives bounteous gifts.
3 O Agni, if we might obtain control of thee the potent God,
Then should we overcome our foes.
4 Kindled at sacrifices he is Agni, hallower, meet for praise,
With flame for hair: to him we seek.
5 Immortal Agni, shining far, enrobed with oil, well worshipped, bears
The gifts of sacrifice away.
6 The priests with ladles lifted up, worshipping here with holy thought,
Have brought this Agni for our aid.
7 Immortal, Sacrificer, God, with wondrous power he leads the way,
Urging the great assembly on.
8 Strong, he is set on deeds ofstrength. In sacrifices led in front,
As Singer he completes the rite.
9 Excellent, he was made by thought. The Germ of beings have I gained,
Yea, and die Sire of active strength.
10 Thee have I stablished, Excellent, O strengthened by the sage's prayer,
Thee, Agni, longing, nobly bright.
11 Agni, the swift and active One, singers, at time of sacrifice,
Eagerly kindle with their food.
12 Agni the Son of Strength who shines up to the heaven in solemn rites,
The wise of heart, I glorify.
13 Meet to be lauded and adored, showing in beauty through the dark,
Agni, the Strong, is kindled well.
14 Agni is kindled as a bull, like a horsebearer of the Gods:
Men with oblations worship him.
15 Thee will we kindle as a bull, we who are Bulls ourselves, O Bull.
Thee, Agni, shining mightily.

1.2.28  Mantra 28 – Agni (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. AGNI who knowest all, accept our offering and the cake of meal,
At dawn's libation, rich in prayer!
2 Agni, the sacrificial cake hath been prepared and dressed for thee:
Accept it, O Most Youthful God.
3 Agni, enjoy the cake of meal and our oblation three days old:
Thou, Son of Strength, art stablished at our sacrifice.
4 Here at the midday sacrifice enjoy thou the sacrificial cake, wise, Jatavedas!
Agni, the sages in assemblies never minish the portion due to thee the Mighty.
5 O Agni, at the third libation takewith joy the offered cake of sacrifice, thou, Son of Strength.
Through skill in song bear to the Gods our sacrifice, watchful and fraught with riches, to Immortal God.
6 O waxing Agni, knower, thou, of all, accept our gifts, the cake,
And that prepared ere yesterday.

1.2.29  Mantra 29 – Agni (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. HERE is the gear for friction, here tinder made ready for the spark.
Bring thou the Matron: we will rub Agni in ancient fashion forth.
2 1n the two fire-sticks Jatavedas lieth, even as the well-set germ in pregnant women,
Agni who day by day must be exalted by men who watch and worship with oblations.
3 Lay this with care on that which lies extended: straight hath she borne the Steerwhen made prolific.
With his red pillar-radiant is his splendour -in our skilled task is born the Son of Ila.
4 In Ila's place we set thee down, upon the central point of earth,
That, Agni Jatavedas, thou mayst bear our offerings to the Gods.
5 Rub into life, ye men, the Sage, the guileless, Immortal, very wise and fair to look on.
O men, bring forth the most propitious Agni, first ensign of the sacrifice to eastward.
6 When with their arms they rub him straight he shineth forth like a strong courser, red in colour, in the wood.
Bright, checkless, as it were upon the Atvins' path, lie passeth by the stones and burneth up the grass.
7 Agni shines forth when born, observant, mighty, the bountiful, the Singar praised by sages;
Whom, as adorable and knowing all things, Gods set at solemn rites as offeringbearer.
8 Set thee, O Priest, in, thine own place, observant: lay down the sacrifice in the home of worship.
Thou, dear to Gods, shalt serve them with oblation: Agni, give long life to the sacrificer.
9 Raise ye a mighty smoke, my fellow-workers! Ye shall attain to wealth without obstruction.
This Agni is the battle-winning Hero by whom the Gods have overcome the Dasyus.
10 This is thine ordered place of birth whence sprung to life thou shonest forth.
Knowing this, Agni, sit thee down, and prosper thou the songs we sing.
11 As Germ Celestial he is called Tanunapat, and Narasamsa born diffused in varied shape.
Formed in his Mother he is Matarisvan; he hath, in his course, become the rapid flight of wind.
12 With strong attrition rubbed to life, laid down with careful hand, a Sage,
Agni, make sacrifices good, and for the pious bring the Gods.
13 Mortals have brought to life the God Immortal, the Conqueror with mighty jaws, unfailing.
The sisters ten, unwedded and united, together grasp the Babe, the new-born Infant.
14 Served by the seven priests, he shone forth from ancient time, when in his Mother's bosom, in her lap, he glowed.
Giving delight each day he closeth not his eye, since from the Asura's body hewas brought to life.
15 Even as the Maruts, onslaughts who attack the foe, those born the first of all knew the full power of prayer.
The Kusikas have made the glorious hymn ascend, and, each one singly in his home, have kindled fire.
16 As we, O Priest observant, have elected thee this day, what time the solemn sacrifice began,
So surely hast thou worshipped, surely hast thou toiled: come thou unto the Soma, wise and knowing all.

1.2.30  Mantra 30 – Indra (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. THE friends who offer Soma long to find thee: they pour forth Soma and present their viands.
They bear unmoved the cursing of the people, for all our wisdom comes from thee, O Indra.
2 Not far for thee are mid-air's loftiest regions: start hither, Lord of Bays, with thy Bay Horses.
Made for the Firm and Strong are these libations. The pressing-stones are set and fire is kindled.
3 Fair cheeks hath Indra, Maghavan, the Victor, Lord of a great host, Stormer, strong in action.
What once thou didst in might when mortals vexed thee,-where now, O Bull, are those thy hero exploits?
4 For, overthrowing what hath ne'er been shaken, thou goest forth alone destroying Vrtras.
For him who followeth thy Law the mountains and heaven and earth stand as if firmly stablished.
5 Yea, Much-invoked! in safety through thy glories alone thou speakest truth as Vrtra's slayer.
E'en these two boundless worlds to thee, O Indra, what time thou graspest them, are but a handful.
6 Forthwith thy Bay steeds down the steep, O Indra, forth, crushing foemen, go thy bolt of thunder!
Slay those who meet thee, those who flee, who follow: make all thy promise true; be all completed.
7 The man to whom thou givest as Provider enjoys domestic plenty undivided.
Blest, Indra, is thy favour dropping fatness: thy worship, Much-invoked! brings gifts in thousands.
8 Thou, Indra, Much-invoked! didst crush to pieces Kunaru handless fiend who dwelt with Danu.
Thou with might, Indra, smotest dead the scorner, the footless Vrtra as he waxed in vigour.
9 Thou hast established in her seat, O Indra, the level earth, vast, vigorous, unbounded.
The Bull hath propped the heaven and air's mid-region. By thee sent onward let the floods flow hither.
10 He who withheld the kine, in silence I yielded in fear before thy blow, O Indra.
He made paths easy to drive forth the cattle. Loud-breathing praises helped the Much-invoked One.
11 Indra alone filled full the earth and heaven, the Pair who meet together, rich in treasures.
Yea, bring thou near us from the air's mid-region strength, on thy car, and wholesome food, O Hero.
12 Surya transgresses not the ordered limits set daily by the Lord of Tawny Coursers.
When to the goal he comes, his journey ended, his Steeds he looses: this is Indra's doing.
13 Men gladly in the course of night would look on the broad bright front of the refulgent Morning;
And all acknowledge, when she comes in glory, the manifold and goodly works of Indra.
14 A mighty splendour rests upon her bosom: bearing ripe milk the Cow, unripe, advances.
All sweetness is collected in the Heifer, sweetness which Indra made for our enjoyment.
15 Barring the way they come. Be firm, O Indra; aid friends to sacrifice and him who singeth.
These must be slain by thee, malignant mortals, armed with ill arts, our quiverbearing foemen.
16 A cry is beard from enemies most near us: against them send thy fiercest-flaming weapon.
Rend them from under, crush them and subdue them. Slay, Maghavan, and make the fiends our booty.
17 Root up the race of Raksasas, O Indra rend it in front and crush it in the middle.
How long hast thou bebaved as one who wavers? Cast thy hot dart at him who hates devotion:
18 When borne by strong Steeds for our weal, O Leader, thou seatest thee at many noble viands.
May we be winners of abundant riches. May Indra be our wealth with store of children.
19 Bestow on us resplendent wealth. O Indra let us enjoy thine overflow of bounty.
Wide as a sea our longing hath expanded, fulfil it, O thou Treasure-Lord of treasures.
20 With kine and horses satisfy this longing with very splendid bounty skill extend it.
Seeking the light, with hymns to thee, O Indra, Kusikas have brought their gift, the singers.
21 Lord of the kine, burst the kine's stable open: cows shall be ours, and strength that wins the booty.
Hero, whose might is true, thy home is heaven: to us, O Maghavan, grant gifts of cattle.
22 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in this fight where spoil is gathered,
The Strong who listens, who gives aid in battles, who slays the Vrtras, wins and gathers riches.

1.2.31  Mantra 31 – Indra (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. WISE, teaching, following the thought of Order, the sonless gained a grandson from his daughter.
Fain, as a sire, to see his child prolific, he sped to meet her with an eager spirit.
2 The Son left not his portion to the brother, he made a home to hold him who should gain, it.
What time his Parents gave the Priest his being, of the good pair one acted, one promoted.
3 Agni was born trembling with tongue that flickered, so that the Red's great children should be honoured.
Great is their germ, that born of them is mighty, great the Bays' Lord's approach through sacrifices.
4 Conquering bands upon the Warrior waited: they recognized great light from out the darkness.
The conscious Dawns went forth to meet his coming, and the sole Master of the kine was Indra.
5 The sages freed them from their firmbuilt prison: the seven priests drove them forward with their spirit.
All holy Order's pathway they discovered he, full of knowledge, shared these deeds through worship.
6 When Sarama had found the mountain's fissure, that vast and ancient place she plundered thoroughly.
In the floods' van she led them forth, light-footed: she who well knew came first unto their lowing.
7 Longing for friendship came the noblest singer: the hill poured forth its treasure for the pious.
The Hero with young followers fought and conquered, and straightway Angiras was singing praises,
8 Peer of each noble thing, yea, all excelling, all creatures doth he know, he slayeth Susna.
Our leader, fain for war, singing from heaven, as Friend he saved his lovers from dishonour.
9 They sate them down with spirit fain for booty, making with hymns a way to life eternal.
And this is still their place of frequent session, whereby they sought to gain the months through Order.
10 Drawing the milk of ancient seed prolific, they joyed as they beheld their own possession.
Their shout of triumph heated earth and heaven. When the kine showed, they bade the heroes rouse them.
11 Indra drove forth the kine, that Vrtra-slayer, while hymns of praise rose up and gifts were offered.
For him the Cow, noble and far-extending, poured pleasant juices, bringing oil and sweetness.
12 They made a mansion for their Father, deftly provided him a great and glorious dwelling;
With firm support parted and stayed the Parents, and, sitting, fixed him there erected, mighty.
13 What time the ample chalice had impelled him, swift waxing, vast, to pierce the earth and heaven,-
Him in whom blameless songs are all united: all powers invincible belong to Indra.
14 I crave thy powers, I crave thy mighty friendship: full many a team goes to the Vrtra-slayer.
Great is the laud, we seek the Princes' favour. Be thou, O Maghavan, our guard and keeper.
15 He, having found great, splendid, rich dominion, sent life and motion to his friends and lovers.
Indra who shone together with the Heroes begot the song, the fire, and Sun and Morning.
16 Vast, the House-Friend, he set the waters flowing, all-lucid, widely spread, that move together.
By the wise cleansings of the meath made holy, through days, and nights they speed the swift streams onward.
17 To thee proceed the dark, the treasure-holders, both of them sanctified by Surya's bounty.
The while thy ovely storming Friends, O Indra, fail to attain the measure of thy greatness.
18 Be Lord of joyous songs, O Vrtra-slayer, Bull dear to all, who gives the power of living.
Come unto us with thine auspicious friendship, hastening, Mighty One, with mighty succours.
19 Like Angiras I honour him with worship, and renovate old song for him the Ancient.
Chase thou the many godless evil creatures, and give us, Maghavan, heaven's light to help m.
20 Far forth are spread the purifying waters convey thou us across them unto safety.
Save us, our Charioteer, from harm, O Indra, soon, very soon, make us win spoil of cattle.
21 His kine their Lord hath shown, e'en Vrtra's slayer, through the black hosts he passed with red attendants.
Teaching us pleasant things by holy Order, to, us hath he thrown open all his portals.
22 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in this fight where spoil is gathered.
The Strong who listens, who gives aid in battles, who slays the Vrtras, wins and gathers riches.

1.2.32  Mantra 32 – Indra (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. DRINK thou this Soma, Indra, Lord of Soma; drink thou the draught of noonday which thou Iovest.
Puffing thy cheeks, impetuous, liberal Giver, here loose thy two Bay Horses and rejoice thee.
2 Quaff it pure, meal-blent, mixt with milk, O Indra; we have poured forth the Soma for thy rapture.
Knit with the prayer-fulfilling band of Maruts, yea, with the Rudras, drink till thou art sated;
3 Those who gave increase to thy strength and vigour; the Maruts singing forth thy might, O Indra.
Drink thou, O fair of cheek, whose hand wields thunder, with Rudras banded, at our noon libation.
4 They, even the Maruts who were there, excited with song the meath-created strength of Indra.
By them impelled to act he reached the vitals Of Vrtra, though he deemed that none might wound him.
5 Pleased, like a man, with our libation, Indra, drink, for enduring hero might, the Soma.
Lord of Bays, moved by sacrifice come hither: thou with the Swift Ones stirrest floods and waters.
6 When thou didst loose the streams to run like racers in the swift contest, having smitten Vrtra
With flying weapon where he lay, O Indra, and, godless, kept the Goddesses encompassed.
7 With reverence let us worship mighty Indra, great and sublime, eternal, everyouthful,
Whose greatness the dear world-halves have not measured, no, nor conceived the might of him the Holy.
8 Many are Indra's nobly wrought achievements, and none of all the Gods transgress his statutes.
He beareth up this earth and heaven, and, doer of marvels, he begot the Sun and Morning.
9 Herein, O Guileless One, is thy true greatness, that soon as born thou drankest up the Soma.
Days may not check the power of thee the Mighty, nor the nights, Indra, nor the months, nor autumns.
10 As soon as thou wast born in highest heaven thou drankest Soma to delight thee, Indra;
And when thou hadst pervaded earth and heaven thou wast the first supporter of the singer.
11 Thou, puissant God, more mighty, slewest. Ahi showing his strength when couched around the waters.
The heaven itself attained not to thy greatness when with one hip of thine the earth was shadowed.
12 Sacrifice, Indra, made thee wax so mighty, the dear oblation with the flowing Soma.
O Worshipful, with worship help our worship, for worship helped thy bolt when slaying Ahi.
13 With sacrifice and wish have I brought Indra; still for new blessings may I turn him hither,
Him magnified by ancient songs and praises, by lauds of later time and days yet recent.
14 I have brought forth a song when longing seized me: ere the decisive day will I laud Indra;
Then may lie safely bear us over trouble, as in a ship, when both sides invocate him.
15 Full is his chalice: Glory! Like a pourer I have filled up the vessel for his drinking.
Presented on the right, dear Soma juices have brought us Indra, to rejoice him, hither.
16 Not the deep-flowing flood, O Much-invoked One! not hills that compass thee about restrain thee,
Since here incited, for thy friends, O Indra, thou breakest e'en the firm built stall of cattle.
17 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in this fight where spoil is gathered,
The Strong who listens, who gives aid in battles, who slays the Vrtras, wins and gathers riches.

1.2.33  Mantra 33 – Indra (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. FORTH from the bosom of the mountains, eager as two swift mares with loosened rein contending,
Like two bright mother cows who lick their youngling, Vipas and Sutudri speed down their waters.
2 Impelled by Indra whom ye pray to urge you, ye move as 'twere on chariots to the ocean.
Flowing together, swelling with your billows, O lucid Streams, each of you seeks the other.
3 I have attained the most maternal River, we have approached Vipas, the broad, the blessed.
Licking as 'twere their calf the pair of Mothers flow onward to their common home together.
4 We two who rise and swell with billowy waters move forward to the home which Gods have made us.
Our flood may not be stayed when urged to motion. What would the singer, calling to the Rivers?
5 Linger a little at my friendly bidding rest, Holy Ones, a moment in your journey.
With hymn sublime soliciting your favour Kusika's son hath called unto the River.
6 Indra who wields the thunder dug our channels: he smote down Vrtra, him who stayed our currents.
Savitar, God, the lovely-handed, led us, and at his sending forth we flow expanded.
7 That hero deed of Indra must be lauded for ever that he rent Ahi in pieces.
He smote away the obstructors with his thunder, and eager for their course forth flowed the waters.
8 Never forget this word of thine, O singer, which future generations shall reecho.
In hymns, O bard, show us thy loving kindness. Humble us not mid men. To thee be honour!
9 List quickly, Sisters, to the bard who cometh to you from far away with car and wagon.
Bow lowly down; be easy to be traversed stay, Rivers, with your floods below our axles.
10 Yea, we will listen to thy words, O singer. With wain and car from far away thou comest.
Low, like a nursing mother, will I bend me, and yield me as a maiden to her lover.
11 Soon as the Bharatas have fared across thee, the warrior band, urged on and sped by Indra,
Then let your streams flow on in rapid motion. I crave your favour who deserve our worship.
12 The warrior host, the Bharatas, fared over the singer won the favour of the Rivers.
Swell with your billows, hasting, pouring riches. Fill full your channels, and roll swiftly onward.
13 So let your wave bear up the pins, and ye, O Waters, spare the thongs;
And never may the pair of Bulls, harmless and sinless, waste away.

1.2.34  Mantra 34 – Indra (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. FORT-RENDER, Lord of Wealth, dispelling foemen, Indra with lightnings hath o'ercome the Dasa.
Impelled by prayer and waxen great in body, he hath filled earth and heaven, the Bounteous Giver.
2 I stimulate thy zeal, the Strong, the Hero decking my song of praise forth; Immortal.
O Indra, thou art equally the Leader of heavenly hosts and human generations.
3 Leading, his band Indra encompassed Vrtra; weak grew the wily leader of enchanters.
He who burns fierce in forests slaughtered Vyamsa, and made the Milch-kine of the nights apparent.
4 Indra, light-winner, days' Creator, conquered, victorious, hostile bands with those who loved him.
For man the days' bright ensign he illumined, and found the light for his joy and gladness.
5 Forward to fiercely falling blows pressed Indra, herolike doing many hero exploits.
These holy songs he taught the bard who gaised him, and widely spread these Dawns' resplendent colour.
6 They laud the mighty acts of him the Mighty, the many glorious deeds performed by Indra.
He in his strength, with all-surpassing prowess, through wondrous arts crushed the malignant Dasyus.
7 Lord of the brave, Indra who rules the people gave freedom to the Gods by might and battle.
Wise singers glorify with chanted praises these his achievements in Vivasvan's dwelling.
8 Excellent, Conqueror, the victory-giver, the winner of the light and Godlike Waters,
He who hath won this broad earth and this heaven, -in Indra they rejoice who love devotions.
9 He gained possession of the Sun and Horses, Indra obtained the Cow who feedeth many.
Treasure of gold he won; he smote the Dasyus, and gave protection to the Aryan colour.
10 He took the plants and days for his possession; he gained the forest trees and air's mid-region.
Vala he cleft, and chased away opponents: thus was he tamer of the overweening.
11 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered,
The Strong, who listens, who gives aid in battles, who slays the Vrtras, wins and gathers treasures.

1.2.35  Mantra 35 – Indra (Author: Visvamitra Gathina)

1. MOUNT the Bay Horses to thy chariot harnessed, and come to us like Vayu with his coursers.
Thou, hastening to us, shalt drink the Soma. Hail, Indra. We have poured it for thy rapture.
2 For him, the God who is invoked by many, the two swift Bay Steeds to the pole I harness,
That they in fleet course may bring Indra hither, e'en to this sacrifice arranged completely.
3 Bring the strong Steeds who drink the warm libation, and, Bull of Godlike nature, be thou gracious.
Let thy Steeds eat; set free thy Tawny Horses, and roasted grain like this consume thou daily.
4 Those who are yoked by prayer I harness, fleet friendly Bays who take their joy together.
Mounting thy firm and easy car, O Indra, wise and all-knowing come thou to the Soma.
5 No other worshippers must stay beside them thy Bays, thy vigorous and smooth-backed Coursers.
Pass by them all and hasten onward hither: with Soma pressed we will prepare to feast thee.
6 Thine is this Sorna: hasten to approach it. Drink thou thereof, benevolent, and cease not.
Sit on the sacred grass at this our worship, and take these drops into thy belly, Indra.
7 The grass is strewn for thee, pressed is the Soma; the grain is ready for thy Bays to feed on.
To thee who lovest them, the very mighty, strong, girt by Maruts, are these gifts presented.
8 This the sweet draught, with cows, the men, the mountains, the waters, Indra, have for thee made ready.
Come, drink thereof, Sublime One, friendly-minded, foreseeing, knowing well the ways thou goest.
9 The Maruts, they with whom thou sharedst Soma, Indra, who made thee strong and were thine army,-
With these accordant, eagerly desirous drink thou this Soma with the tongue of Agni.
10 Drink, Indra, of the juice by thine own nature, or by the tongue of Agni, O thou Holy.
Accept the sacrificial gift, O Sakra, from the Adhvaryu's hand or from the Hotar's.
11 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered,
The Strong, who listens, who.gives aid in battles, who slays the Vrtras, wins and gathers riches.

1.2.36  Mantra 36 – Indra (Authors: Visvamitra Gathina, Ghora Angiras)

1. WITH constant succours, fain thyself to share it, make this oblation which we bring effective.
Grown great through strengthening gifts at each libation, he hath become renowned by mighty exploits.
2 For Indra were the Somas erst- discovered, whereby he grew strong-jointed, vast, and skilful.
Indra , take quickly these presented juices: drink of the strong, that which the strong have shaken.
3 Drink and wax great. Thine are the juices, Indra, both Somas of old time and these we bring thee.
Even as thou drankest, Indra, earlier Somas, so drink to-day, a new guest, meet for praises.
4 Great and impetuous, mighty-voiced in battle, surpassing power is his, and strength resistless.
Him the broad earth hath never comprehended when Somas cheered the Lord of Tawny Coursers.
5 Mighty and strong he waxed for hero exploit: the Bull was furnished a Sage's wisdom.
Indra is our kind Lord; his steers have vigour; his cows are many with abundant offspring.
6 As floods according to their stream flow onward, so to the sea, as borne on cars, the waters.
Vaster is Indra even than his dwelling, what time the stalk milked out, the Soma, fills him.
7 Eager to mingle with the sea, the rivers carry the well-pressed Soma juice to Indra.
They drain the stalk out with their arms, quick-banded, and cleanse it with a stream of mead and filters.
8 Like lakes appear his flanks filled full with Soma: yea, he contains libations in abundance.
When Indra had consumed the first sweet viands, he, after slaying Vrtra, claimed the Soma.
9 Then bring thou hither, and let none prevent it: we know thee well, the Lord of wealth and treasure.
That splendid gift which is thine own, O Indra, vouchsafe to us, Lord of the Tawny Coursers.
10 O Indra, Maghavan, impetuous mover, grant us abundant wealth that brings all blessings.
Give us a hundred autumns for our lifetime: give us, O fair-checked Indra, store of heroes.
11 Call we on Indra, Maghavan, auspicious, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered,
The Strong, who listens, who gives aid in battles, who slays the Vrtras, wins and gathers riches.







Om Tat Sat

(Continued ..)


My humble salutations to Swamyjis, Philosophic scholars , dharmicscriptures dot org
for the collection)

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