Rig Veda

19 AsPrayoga, the Rishi of the hymn, has no cow and no axe to cut wood, Agni is asked in this and the two following stanzas to dispense with the customary offerings of milk, and to accept such wood aa the wovte\\\^>^t <iwx ^x^iVw:^, J^2 JVitA Ais /leari ' a daroat spirit will compeuMto \\i^\q^uViQV\&i^%3A properly prepared fuel.

Thjit noblest Furtherer hath appeared, to whom men bring their holy works. Our songs of praise have risen aloft to Agni who was bom to give the Arya strength. 2 Agni of Divodasa turned, as 'twere in majesty, to the Gods. Onward he sped along the mother earth, and took his station in the height of heaven. 3 Him before whom the people shrink when he performs his glorious deeds. Him who wins thousands at the worship of the Gods, himself, that Agni, serve with songs. 4 The mortal man whom thou wouldst lead to opulence, 0 Vasu, he who brings thee gifts. He, Agni, wius himself a hero singing lauds, yea, one who feeds a thousand men. 5 He with the steed wius spoil even in the fenced fort, and gains if n perishable fame. In thee, 0 Lord of wealth, continually we lay all precious offeriugs to the Gods. 6 To him who dealeth out all wealth, who is the cheerful Priest of men. To him, like the first vessels filled with savoury juice, to Agni go the songs of praise. 7 Votaries, richly-gifted, deck him with their songs, even as the steed who draws the car. On both, Strong Lord of men ! on child and grandson pour the bounties which our nobles give.

8 Sing forth to him, the Holy, most munificent, sublime with his refulgent glow, To Agni, ye Upastutas. 9 Worshipped with gifts, enkindled, splendid, Maghavan shall win himself heroic fame. And will not his most newly shown benevolence come to us with abundant strength ? 2 Of Divoddia : whom Divod&sa especially worshipped and claimed as hig tutelary God. The stanza is obscure, and my translation founded on von Roth's interpretation of jn'd vl vdvrUe, which has been accepted by Cowell, must be regarded as conjectural. See Wilson's Translation and note. 4 A hero : a brave son. / The eecond line ia obscure. * Qracefnl loxd of men, grant wealth to us rich n cbildren and grandchildren.* — ^Wilson. S l^pasiuta$: singera so named after the ■R\»Vi\\3^Mi\.>a\A. ^^^V^^.Vi^ 10 Pi-iest, presser of the juice ! praise now the dearest Guest of all our friends, Agni, the driver of the cars. 11 Who, finder-out of treasures open and concealed, bringeth them hither, Holy One; Whose waves, as in a cataract, are hard to pass, when he, through song, would win him strength. 12 Let not the noble Guest, Agni, be wroth with us : by many a man his praise is sung, Good Herald, skilled in sacrifice.

13 0 Vasu, Agni, let not them be harmed who come in any way with lauds to thee. Even the lowly, skilled in rites, with offered gifts, seeketh th^e for the envoy's task. 14 Friend of the Maruts, Agni, come with Rudras to the Soma- drauglit, To Sobhari's fair song of praise, and be thou joyful in the light. 10 Priest, presser of the juice : dsdva : stotah. — Sftyana. * Singer of hymns.' — Wilson. 11 Whose waves : billowy floods of flame rushing on like waters falling down a precipice. ' Whose (flames), as he hastens to wage the battle by means of our sacred rite, are hard to be passed through as waves rushing down a declivity.*— Wilson. See also Pischel, Vedische StudieUf 1, j^. I8i. Through song : inspirited and strengthened by our hymns. 13 For the envoy's task: to bear his oblations to the Gods. (Book VIIL Hymns 49—59. M, MiXller)

To you will I sing Indra's praise who gives good gifts as well we know ; The praise of Ma'^havan who, rich iu treasure, aids his singers 2 As with a hundred hosts, he rushes boldly on, and for the offerer slays hii* foes. As from a mountain flow the water-brooks, thus flow his gifts who feedeth many a one. 3 The drops effused, the gladdening draughts, 0 Indra, Lover of the Song, As waters seek the lake where they are wont to rest, fill thee, for bounty, Thunderer. 4 The matchless draught that strengthens and gives eloquence, the sweetest of the meath drink thou, Tnat in thy joy thou mayst scatter thy gifts o'er us, plenteously, even as the dust. 5 Come quickly to our laud, urged on by Soma-pressers like a horse — Laud, Godlike Indra, which milch-kine make sweet for thee : with Kanva's sons are gifts for thee. 6 With homage have we sought thee as a Hero, stroirgj*" pre- eminent, with unfailing wealth. 0 Thunderer, as a plenteous spring pours forth its stream, so, Indra, flow our songs to thee. 7 If now thou art at sacrifice, or if thou art upon the earth, Come thence, high-thonghted ! to our sacrifice with the Swift,

come, Mighty with the Mighty Ones. See Book VI II., Hymn XLIX., note. Professor Cowell's version of these eleven hymns will be found in Appendix I. of Wilson's Translation, Vol. V. I am indebted to him for some improvements on the version which I had previously prepared. 2 ^8 with a hundred hosts: *like a weapon witli .a hundred" edges.' — Cowell. 4 That... gives eloquence: vivdkshanam : from vuch ; ' swelling,' fiom vaksh^ ul'sh. — von Roth, and Cowell. Plenteovtiij, even as the dtist : the mi^aning of the text is obscure The St. Petersburg Lexicon tik*»s dhri^uid — drishad^ the nether millstone : 'just as the mill-atone poMiw o\3i\. \ii'ftoX' — ^^'^€^, / TAeSwi/e and the Mighty Ones, are Indra'a\iOT»fta. 8 The active, fleet-foot, tawny Coursers that are thine are swift to victoi-y, like the Wind, Wherewith thou goest round to visit Manus' seed, wherewith all heaven is visible. 9 Indra, from thee so great we crave prosperity in wealth of kine, As, Maghavan, thou favouredat Medhya^tithi, and, in the fight, 10 As, Maghavan, to Kanva, Trasadasyu, and to Paktha and Dasavraja ; As, Indra, to Goparya and Rijisvau thou vouchsafed^st wealth in kine and gold.

Sakra I praise, to win his aid, far-famed, exceeding bountiful, Who gives, as 'twere iu thousands, precious wealth to him who sheds the juice and worships him. 2 Arrows with hundred points, unconquerable, are this Indra's mighty arms in war. He streams on liberal worshippers like a hill with springs, when j uices poured have gladdened him. 3 What time the flowing Soma-drops have gladdened with their taste the Friend, Like water, gracious Lord ! were my libations made, like milchkine to the worshipper. 4 To him the peerless, who is calling you to give you aid, forth flow the drops of pleasant meath. The Soma-drops which call on thee, 0 gracious Lord, have brought thee to our hymns of praise. § He rushes hurrying like a steed to Soma that adorns our rite, Which hymns make sweet to thee, lover of pleasant food. The call to Paura thou dost love. 6 Praise the strong, grasping Hero, winner of the spoil, ruling supreme o'er mighty wealth. Like a full spring, 0 Thunderer, from thy store hast thou poured on the worshipper evermore. 9 Medhydtithi : a Rishi whose name h:is frequently occurred. NtpdtUhi : mentioned only here and V&lakhilya Hymn III.

10 Trasadasyu : see. Vol. I., Index. Paktha : a favourite of the Asvins. See VIII. 22. 10. Dasavraja: see VIII. 8. 20. Gosarya : see VIII. 8. 20. Rijisvan : see Vol. I., Index. 5 2%e call to Paura : the invitation to Paura' a Uovia^. According to von Hoth pauf'd mea,na the &llev, the satisfier : * tUovi a.i^^vo\eft^ tXife s^wvwvsiaxka \«i 'J4f satiafyiag beverage, '— Cowell. See Y. 7 4. 4. jrnnrt.] the riqvbda. mi 7 Now whether thou be far away, or in the heavens, or on the earth, O Indra, mighty-thoughted, harnessing thy Bays, come Lofty with the Lofty Ones. 8 ^The Bays who draw thy chariot, Steeds who injure none, sur- pass the wind's impetuous strength — With whom thou silencest the enemy of man, with whom thou goest round the sky. 9 O gracious Hero, may we learn anew to know thee as thou art : iis in decisive fight thou holpest Etasa, or Vasa 'gainst 10 As, Maghavan, to Kanva at the sacred feast, to Dirghanitha thine home-friend. As to Gosarya thou, Stone-darter, gavest wealth, give me a goldbright stall of kine.

As with Manu Samvarani, Indra, thou drankest Soma juice, And, Maghavan, with Ntpatithi, Medhy&tithi, with Pushtigu and Srushtigu, — 3 The son of Prishadv^lna was Praskanva's host, who lay decrepit and forlorn. Aided by thee the Rishi Dasyave-vrika strove to obtain thousands of kine. 3 Call hither with thy newest song Indra who lacks not hymns of praise. Him who observes and knows, inspirer of the sage, him who seems eager to enjoy. 4 He unto whom they sang the seven-beaded hymn, three- parted, in the loftiest place, He sent his thunder down on all these living things, and so displayed heroic might. 7 This stanza is almost a repetition of stanza 7 of Hymn I. 9 Etafa: see I. 61. 15. Vaaa: mentioned as a favourite of the Asvins in X. 40. 7.* Dagavraja : said in stanza 10 of Hymn I. to have been helped by Indra. 10 Dirghanitha : Ludwig takes this word to be an adjective qualifying ¥nidhe adhvari, * at the sacrificial feast of long duration.' A gold-hHght stall of kine : according to Ludwig, a stall graced with bay steeds, would be a better translation. 1 Sdmvarani : son of the Vedic Rishi Samvarana. See V. 33. 10. At the end of the stanza, * so drink with us,' is to be understood.

2 Forlorn : rejected and cast out by his kindred. Daayave-vriha : literally, the Wolf-to-tbe-Dasyu, that is, Destroyer of fiends or barbaiiaus. 4 TAe seven-headed : sung by seven hebveui.^ u.\x|g<sre« 262 THE HYMNS OF [vIlAKHILTA. 5 We invocate that Tndra who beatoweth precious things on us. Now do we know his newest favour; may we gain a stable that is full of kine. 6 He whom thou aidest, gracious Lord, to give again, obtains great wealth to nourish him. ' , We with our Soma ready, Lover of the Song ! call, Indra Maghavan, on thee. 7 Ne'er art thou fruitless, Indra ; ne'er dost thou desert the worshipper : But now, 0 Maghavan, thy bounty as a God is poured forth ever more and more. 8 He who hath overtaken Krivi with his might, and silenced Sushna with death-bolts, — When he supported yonder heaven and spread it out, then first the son of earth was born. 9 Good Lord of wealth is he to whom all Aryas, Dasas here be- long. Directly unto thee, the pious Rusama Paviru, is that wealth brought nigh. 10 In zealous haste the singers have sung forth a song distilling oil and rich in sweets. Riches have spread among us and heroic strength, with us are flowing Soma-drops.

As, Sakra, thou withManu called Vivasvan drankest Soma juice, As, indra, thou didst love the hymn by Trita's side, so dost thou joy with Ayu now. 2 As thou with M^tarisvan, Medhya, Prishadhra, hast cheered thee, Indra, with pressed jnice, Drunk Soma with Uijunas, Syilniarasmi, by Dasonya's, Dasasipra's side. 3 'Tis he who made the lauds his own and boldly drank the 8 The son of earth : man. 9 Rasama Pavtru : the Rusamas are mentioned in V. 30. 13 — 15. The name of Paviru does not occur again. 1 Vivasvdn : or Vivasvat, was the father of Manu who is generally called Vaivasvata. Ayu : the Ilishi of the hymn, or the sacrificer. 2 Mdtarhvan : the Rishi of Hymn VI. of the Vdlakhilya, Medhya : the H/sIij of HymuB V. IX. and X. Prishadhra : the Rishi of Hymn VIII. SyH- marosmi : mentioDed, as a favourite of the A.Bv\iift,\ivl. Wi.. ^^. ^\v^ \i»xaLR!^ of RijCmas, Dasonjra, and Dasasipra do not occur «i^«i.m'm\Xi^^v^N^^^. JrKirW Jk] THE RIG VEDA, 268 . He to whom Vishnu came striding his three wide steps, as Mitra's statutes ordered it. 4 In whose laud thou didst joy, Indra, at the great deed, O

Satakratu, Mighty One ! Seeking reuowu we call thee as the milkers call the cow who yields -abuudant milk. 5 He is our Sire who gives to us, Great, Mighty, ruling as he wills. Unsought, may he the Strong, Rich, Lord of ample wealth, give us of horses and of kiuc. 6 He to whom thou, Good Lord, givest that he may give increas- es wealth that nourishes. E-^ger for wealth we call on Indra, Lord of wealth, ou S itakratu with our lauds. 7 Never art thou neglectful : thou guardest both races with thy care. The call on Indra, fourth Aditya ! is thine own. Amrit is stablished in the heavens. 8 The offerer whom thou, Indra, Lover of the Song, liberal Magliavan, favourest, — As at the call of Kanva so, 0 gracious Lord, hear thou our songs and eulogy. 9 Sung is the song of ancient time : to Indra have ye said the prayer. They have sung many a Brihati of sacrifice, poured forth the worshipper's many thoughts. 10 Indra hath tossed together mighty stores of wealth, and both the worlds, yea, and the Sun. Pure, brightly-shining, mingled with the milk, the draughts of Soma have made Indra glad.

As highest of the Maghavans, preeminent among the Bulls, Best breaker-down of forts, kine-winner, Lord of wealth, we seek thee, Indra Maghavan. 2 Thou who subduedst Ayu, Kutsa, Atithigva, waxing daily in thy might, 5 Ruling as he wilU : * he who acts as the sovereign.' — Cowell. 7 fioth races : Gods and men. Fourth Aditya : Varu^, Mitra, and Aryaman being the other three. Amrit: 'ambrosia.' — Cowell. 8 As thou hearest, must be supplied at the beginning of the stanza. 9 Brihati : verse io the Brihati metre. 1 Highest • or, nearest. The Bulls : strong heroes, 2 Ayu, A'uisa, Atlthiyva : see I. 53. 10, 264 TSE HYMNS OF [VALAKffllYA^ As such, rousing thy power, we invocate thee now, thee Satakratu, Lord of Bays. 3 The pressing-stones shall pour for us the essence of the meath of all, Drop3 that have been pressed out afar among the folk, and those that have been pressed near us. 4 Repel all enmities and keep them far away : let all win treasure for. their own. Even among Sishtas are the stalks that make thee glad, where thou with Soma satest thee. 5 Come, Indra, very near to us with aids of firmly-based resolve ; Come, most auspicious, with thy most auspicious help, good

Kinsman, with good kinsmen, come ! 6 Bless thou with progeny the chief of men, the lord of heroes, victor in the fray. Aid with thy powers the men who sing thee lauds and keep their spirits ever pure and bright. 7 May we be such in battle as are surest to obtain thy grace : With holy offerings and invocations of the Gods, we mean, that we may win the spoil. 8 Thine, Lord of Bays, am I. Prayer longeth for the spoil. Still with thy help I seek the fight. So, at the raiders' head, I, craving steeds and kioe, unite myself with thee alone.

Indra, the poets with their hymns extol this hero might of thine : They strengthened, loud in song, thy power that droppeth oil. With hymns the Pauras came to thee. 2 Through piety they came to Indra for his aid, they whose libations give thee joy. As thou with Krisa and Samvarta hast rejoiced, so, Indra, be thou glad with us. 4 SUktas: apparently a tribe of no great importance. Stalls: of the Soma-plant. 5 At the raiders* head : at the head of the band who are going forth to seize the cattle of their enemies. Von Roth thinks that matin^m should be read ia stead of math^nStm, and Qrassroann translates accordingly, ' in Anfang mein^r Bitten,' * at the beginning of my prayers.' 1 Pauras : * the offerers.' — Cowell. See Vdlakhilya, IT. 5. 2 Ay-iaa -' the Itisbi oi Hymn VII. of the V&lakhilya. Samvarta: not a20ntioned elsewhere. 3 Agreeing in youf spirit, all ye Deities, come nigh to us. Yasus and Budras shall come near to give us aid, and Maruts listen to our call. 4 May Pushan, Vishnn, and Sarasvati befriend, and the Seven Streams, this call of mine : May Waters, Wind, the Mountains, and the Forest-Lord, and Earth give ear unto my cry.

5 Indra, with thine own bounteous gift, most liberal of the Mighty Ones, Be our boon benefactor, Vritra-slayer, be our feast-companion for our weal. 6 Leader of heroes, Lord of battle, lead thou us to oombat, thou Most Sapient One. High fame is theirs who win by invocations, feasts and entertainment of the Gods. 7 Our hopes rest on the Faithful One : in Indra is the people's life. O Maghavan, come nigh that thou mayst give us aid : make plenteous food stream forth for us. , 8 Thee would we worship, Indra, with our songs of praise : O Satakratu, be thou ours. Pour down upon Praskanva bounty vast and firm, exuberant^ that shall never fail. HYMN VIT. Praskanva's Gift. Great, verily, is Indra's might. I have beheld, and hither comes Thy bounty, Dasyave-vrika ! 2 A hundred oxen white of hue are shining like the stars in heaven, So tall, they seem to prop the sky. 3 Bamboos a hundred, hundred dogs, a hundred skins of beasts well-tanned, A hundred tufts of Balbaja, four hundred red-hued mares are mine. 4 The Forest Lord : vanaspati : the tall timber tree, frequently meaniDg the Sacrificial Post. 5 Benefactor : or Bhaga, the God who distributes wealth.

1 'Great is Indra's power, and the gifts which I have received from thee, O destroyer of the Dasyus, can be compared only to his bounty.' Dasyavevrika, here, is the name, not of the Rishi, but of a hero who in alli-tnoe with the Kanvas has been victorious in his attack on the hostile barbarians. See Ludwig, Vol. III. p, 164. 3 Balbaja : a kind of coarse grass (Eleusine liidic8k.\ "«&fe^'Ya.\^\^Qi>\^^^W^ mouiea, and for other parpoaea when plaited. 4c Blest by the Gods, K&nvS-yanas ! be ye who spread through life on lif-e : Like horses have ye stridden forth. 5 Then men extolled the team of seven : not yet full-grown, its fame is great. The dark mares rushed along the paths, so that no eye could follow them.

Thy bounty, Dasyave-vrika, exhaustless hath displayed itself : Its fulness is as broad as heaven. 2 Ten thousand Dasyave-vrika, the son of Pdtakratal, hath From his own wealth bestowed on me. 3 A hundred asses hath he given, a hundred head of fleecy sheep, A hundred slaves, and -wreaths besides. 4 There also was a mare led forth, picked out for P&takrat^'s sake, Not of the horses of the herd. 5 Observant Agni hath appeared, oblation-bearer with his car. Agiii with his resplendent flame hath shone on high as shines the Sun, hath shone like Sdrya in the heavens.

Endowed, 0 Gods, with your primeval wisdom, come quickly with your chariot, 0 ye Holy. Come with your mighty powers, 0 ye Nasatyas ; come hither, drink ve tliis the third libation. 2 Tlie truthful Deities, the Three-and-Thirty, saw you approach before the Ever-Truthful. 4 Kdnvd^athia : descendants of Kanva. 5 The team of seoen : * siebeugedpaiinep.' — Grassmaiin ; * seven-yoked team.'— Cowell. But the exact meaning here of siptisya is uncertain. Von Roth thinks that it is probably a proper name. Ludwig takes it in the sense of a bond of friendship or alliance. The dark mares : there is no substantive, and 'mares' is conjecturally suppUed. According to Ludwig, the dark hosts of the Dasyus conquered by Dasyave-vrika are intended, and the whole stanza would be mofe correctly translated : * Then no more thought they of the great renown of the collective bond. The dark tribes rushed aloig the paths so that no eye could reach to them.' See Ludwig's Commentary, Vol. V. p. 552. 2 The son of Pdtahratd : or, more probably, called Pautakrata after his father Piitakratu. — Ludwig. 3 Slaves : d'U^n : conquered barbarians. 4 Picked out : or, adorned. Pdtakratd : the wife of Pdtakratu.

1 NAsatyai: 'truthful ones.' — Cowell. See Vol I.^ Index. 2 TAe T/iree-andTkirty : or, T.irice-E.\eveTi. ^^^ 1. ^^. U. Tht EvevTrutA/ul: the San, whose approach is Viera.\ded\>^ XiVva kft^'voa. Accepting this our worship and libation, 0 Asvins bright with fire, drink ye the Soma. 3 Asvins, that work of yours deserves our wonder, — the Bull of heaven and earth and air's mid region ; Yea, and your thousand promises in battle, — to all of these come near and drink beside us. 4: Ilorc io your portion laid for you, ye Holy : come to those songs of ours, 0 ye Nasatyas. Drink among us the Soma full of sweetness, and with your powers assist the man who worships.

He whom the priests in sundry ways arranging the sacritice, of one accord, bring hither. Who was appointed as a learned Brahman, — what is the sacri- ficer's knowledge of him ? 2 Kindled in many a spot, still One is Agni; Sarya is One though high o'er all he shineth. Illumining this All, still One is Ushas. That which is One hath into All developed. 3 The chariot bright and radiant, treasure-laden, three-wheeled, with easy seat, and lightly rolling. Which She of Wondrous Wealth was born to harness, — this car of yours I call. Drink what remaineth.

In offerings poured to you, 0 Indra-Varuna, these shares of yours stream forth to glorify your state. Ye haste to the libations at each sacrifice when ye assist the worshipper who sheds the juice. 2 The waters and the plants, 0 Indra-Varuna, had efficacious vigour, and attained to might : 3 The Bull: the Sun, whom, as his heralds and revealers, they may be said to have created. Thousand promises : * a characteristic periphrasis for the Maghavans, or wealthy nobles.' — Ludwig. 1 The hymn appears to consist of unconnected fragments, and the purport of this stanzs) is not obvious. 3 She of Wondrous Weatlh : Ushas or Dawn. Was bo7'n to harness : or, as Prof. Cowell translates : * At whose yoking the Dawn was born.' The chariot of the Asvins precedes that of the Dawn. 2 The loaters dnd the plants : used in sacrifice ; the Soma-plants and the water employed in preparing the juice for libation. The meajiing of the stanza seems t«» be : although you are far away in the most distant firmament, our libations have bad power to attract you. Ke%«ktA. m% ovX^ \ xXxa ^^^esa* man is unworthy of your consideration ©yen da «iiii enftixi^*

Ye who have gone beyond the path of middle air, — no godless man is worthy to be called your foe. 3 True is your Krisa's word, Indra and Vanina : The seven holy voices pour a wave of meath. For their sake. Lords of splendour ! aid the pious man who, unbewildered, keeps you ever in his thoughts. 4 Dropping oil, sweet with Soma, pouring forth their stream, are the Seven Sisters in the seat of sacrifice. These, dropping oil, are yours, 0 Indra- Varupa : with these enrich with gifts and help the worshipper. 5 To our great happiness have we ascribed to these Two Bright Ones truthfulness, great strength, and majesty. 0 Lords of splendour, aid us through the Three-times-Seven, as we pour holy oil, 0 Indra- Varuna. 6 What ye in time of old, Indra and Varuna, gave Rishis — re- velation, thought, and power of song, And places which the wise made, weaving sacrifice, — these through my spirit's fervid glow have I beheld. 7 0 Indra- A^aruna, grant to the worshippers cheerfulness void of pride, and wealth to nourish them. Vouchsafe us food, prosperity, and progeny, and lengthen out our days that we may see long life.

3 The seven holy voices: the voices of the seven priests or sacred bards. SCe IX. 103. 3. A wave of meath: *a stream of honey.* — Cowell. 4 The Seven Sisters : * sister-streams of the Soma.' — CowelL 5 The Three-times-Seven : perhaps the Maruts, thrice-seven being used indefinitely for a larger number consisting of troops of seven. See I. 133. 6. 6 Revelation : srutdm : that which was heard (from the beginning) ; sacred knowledge. * Fame.' — Cowell. Places : perhaps, as Ludwig suggests, homes in the world to come, which the wise Rishis have prepared for themselves by performing sacrifice here below. Through my spirit's fervid glow : tdpasd : according to Grassmann and Cowell, this tdpa^ means *the holy austerities' of the RishiR, and not the sacred fervour of the seer of the hymn. I have fallowed Ludwig.

In sweetest and most gladdening stream flow pure, 0 Soma, on thy way, Pressed out for Indra, for his drink. 2 Fiend-queller, Friend of all men, he hath with the wood at- tained unto His place, his iron-fashioned home. 3 Be thou best Vritra-slayer, best grantor of bliss, most liberal : Promote our wealthy princes' gifts. 4 Flow onward with thy juice unto the banquet of the Mighty Gods : Flow hither for our strength and fame. 5 0 Indu, we draw nigh to thee, with this one object day by day : To thee alone our prayers are said. 6 By means of this eternal fleece may Surya's Daughter purify Thy Soma that is foaming forth. 7 Ten sister maids of slender form seize him within the press and hold Him firmly on the final day. 8 The virgins send him forth : they blow the skin musician- like, and fuse The triple foe-repelling meath. Nearly all the hymns of this Book are addressed to the deified Soma juice, or to Soma, or Indu, the Moon, who as containing the celestial nectar, the drink of the Gods, is identi6ed with the Soma- plant and its exhilarating juice. As the Moon-God pours down his ambrosial rain through the sieve of heaven, he is addressed and worshipped as Pavamftna (Self -Purifying), represented by the Soma juice as it undergoes purification by flowing through the wool which is used as a filter or strainer. See Muir, 0. S. Texts^ V. 258 sqq., Hillebrandt, VedUche Mythologies I. 385 sqq., and Max Miiller, ChipSt lY. 353 — 367. But cf. Oldcnberg, Eeligion des Veda, 599 — 612.

1 Flow pure : pdvasva : * purify thyself.* — Ludwig. 2 With the wood : some wooden vessel or implement, perhaps the sruva or dipping-spoon. Iron-fashioned home : receptacle that has been hammered or formed with a tool of dt/aSj iron or other metal. It is not clear what vessel is intended. 6 SHi'ya'i Daughter : Si*addh& or Faith. See 8 itapatha-Brdhmana, XII. 7. 3. 11. * 7 Ten sister maids: the priest's fingers. The final day: on which the Soma is effused. 8 Virgins : the unwedded ones : the fingers. Musician-like ' or, && m^a blow a bagpipe; but the meaning of bdkurdm and the aecoiidL \i«M-SM3kfc\&\!kRN» clear. ' Tbey Beize it glittering like a water-skin.* — ^WiUoti. 9 Inviolable milch-kine round about him blend, for Indra's drinki The fresh young Soma with their milk. 10 In the wild raptures of this draught, Indra slays all the Vritras : he, The Hero, pours his wealth on us.

Soma, flow on, inviting Gods, speed to the purifying cloth : Pass into Indra, as a Bull. 2 As mi'^'hty food speed hitherward, Indu, as a most splendid Steer : Sit in thy place as one with strength. 3 The well-loved meath was made to flow, the stream of the creative juice : The Sage drew waters to himself. 4 The mighty waters, yea, the floods accompany thee Mighty One, When thou wilt clothe thee with the milk. 5 The lake is brightened in the floods. Soma, our Friend, heaven's prop and stay, i^ Falls on the purifying cloth. 6 The tawny Bull hath bellowed, fair as mighty Mitra to behold : He shines together with the Sun. 7 Songs, Indu, active in their might are beautified for thee, wherewith Thou deck est thee for our delight. 8 To thee who givest ample room we pray, to win the joyous draught : Great are the praises due to thee. 9 Indu, as Indra's Friend, on us pour with a stream of sweetness, like Parjanya sender of the rain. 10 Winner of kine, Indu, art thou, winner of heroes, steeds, and strength : Primeval Soul of sacrifice. 3 Tke Sage ; the Soma. Waters : with which the stalks of the plant are sprinkled.

.5 The lake : the Soma juice. 6 The tawny Bull : ' the golden-hued showerer of blessings.' — Wilson. The strong greenish-yellow Soma j nice. Hath bellowed : an exaggerated expression for the sound made by the juice as it drops, but in keeping with its represent- atiun as a bull. P Z/ie Parjanya : enriching and ble«auig ua aa l\i^ t«A\i-^<(^M^ l^ost^aJlizea the

Here present this Immortal God flies, like a bird upon her wings, To settle in the vats of wood. 2 This God, made ready with the hymn, runs swiftly through the winding ways. Inviolable as he flows. 3 This God while flowing is adorned, like a bay steed for war^ by men Devout and skilled in holy songs. 4 He, like a warrior going forth with heroes, as he flows along Is fain to win all pf ecious boons. 5 This God, as he is flowing on, speeds like a car and gives his gifts : He lets his voice be heard of all. 6 Praised by the sacred bards, this God dives into waters, and bestows Rich gifts upon the worshipper. 7 Away he rushes with his stream, across the regions, in to heaven, Aild roars as he is flow ing on. 8 While flowing, meet for sacrifice, he hath gone up to heaven across The regions, irresistible. 9 After the way of ancient time, this God, pressed out for Deities, Flows tawny to the strarning-cloth. 10 This Lord of many Holy Laws^ even at his birth engendering strength. Effused, flows onward in' a stream.

0 Soma flowing on thy way, win thou and conquer high renown ; And make us better than we are. 1 The vats of wood : dr&ndni ; large wooden vessels, tuba or troughs, which receive the Soma juice. 2 The winding ways : of the wool which forms the strainer. — Ludwigr • Rushes against the enemies,* — Wilson. 6 Dives into waters : called vasativaryaf^, with which the stalks of the Somaplant are sprinkled. 9 Pressed out for Deities : the Soma juice bdlng identified with the Amrit or nectar, the drink of the Gods, contained in the Moob. i jffeUer than tffe are : or, happier than we are. 2 Win thou the light, win heavenly light, and. Soma, all feli- cities ; And make us better than we are. 3 Win skilful strength and mental power. 0 Soma, drive away our foes ; And make us better than we are. 4 Ye purifiers, purify Soma for Indra, for his drink : Make thou us better than we are. 5 Give us our portion in the Sun through thine own mental power and aids ; And make us better than we are. 6 Through thine own mental power and aid long may we look

upon the Sun ; Make thou us better than we are. 7 Well-weaponed Soma, pour to us a stream of riches doubly great ; And make us better than we are. 8 As one victorious, unsubdued in battle pour forth wealth to us; And make us better than we are. 9 By worship, Pavamalna ! men have strengthened thee to prop the Law : Make thou us better than we are. 10 0 Indu, bring us wealth in steeds, manifold, quickening all life ; And make us better than we are.

Enkindled, Pavamana, Lord, sends forth his light on every side In friendly show, the bellowing Bull. 2 He, Pavamana, Self-produced, speeds onward sharpening hi? horns : He glitters through the firmament. 3 Brilliant likte wealth, adorable, with splendour Pavamslna shines. Mightily with the streams of meath. 4 Purifiers: priests whose business is to purify the juice. Make thou : O Soma. 9 To prop the Law : vldkarmani .- 'for their own upholding.'— Wilson 10 Quiekening all life : vitv^yum: explained by SAyana as = 5ari;«^(Jw/nam • * all-reachiDg. — Wilson. In this Apr! hymn atributes of Agni are transferred to Soma Pavamana ^ /'^ff»^^^' sdmiddhah: properly appUoable to Agni. The bellowing oe /• Bhowerer of blessings, uttering a loud «o\md: — "^W&ovi. 2 Self -produced : TanHndpU ; properly a naawi ol k^xiV •, \ver^, H-\kfc^QQti, Srmf «L1 THE RIOVEDA. 273 i The tawny Pavamina, who strews from of old the grass with might, Is worshipped, God amid the Gods. 5 The golden, the Celestial Doors are lifted with their frames I on high, i By Payamd.Qa glorified. * 6 With passion Pavam^aa longs for the great lofty Pair, well- Like beauteous maidens, Night and Dawn. 7 Both Gods who look on men I call, Celestial Heralds : Indra's Self

Is Pavamina, yea, the Bull. 8 This, Pavam4na*s sacrifice, shall the three beauteous Goddesses, Sarasvati and Bharati and I]&, Mighty One, attend. 9 I summon Tvashtar hither, our protector, champion, earliestborn, Indu is Indra, tawny Steer; Pavamana is Prajapati. 10 O Pavam-ina, with the meath in streams anoint Vanaspati, The ever-green, the golden-hued, refulgent, with a thousand boughs. • 1 1 Come to the consecrating rite of Pavamana, all ye Gods, — V4yu, Sarya, Brihaspati, Indra, and Agni, in accord.

Soma, flow on with pleasant stream, a Bull devoted to the Gods, Our Friend, unto the woollen sieve. 2 Pour hitherward, as Indra's Self, Indu, that gladdening stream of thine, And send us coursers full of strength. 3 Flow to the filter hitherward, pouring that ancient gladden-' ing juice. Streaming forth power and high renown. 4 Hither the sparkling drops have flowed, like waters down a steep descent : They have reached Indra purified. 6 The Celestial Doors : the doors of the hall of sacrifice are here identified with the portals of the east through which light comes into the world. See 11. 3. 5. 7 Celestial Heralds : see I. 13. 8. Indra* s Self : indrah here is explained by S&yana ?A=dtptaK ; * radiant.* — Wilson.; 10 Vanaspati : the sacrificial stake. 11 The consecrating rite: sv^hdkritim : oblation accompanied with th^ utterance of the sacred formula, Sv^h^. JTi THE HYMNS OP [BOOK /X 5 Whom, haying passed the filter, ten dames cleanse, as 'twere a vigorous steed, While he disports him in the wood, — 6 The steer-strong juice with milk pour forth, for feast and service of the Gods, To him who bears away the draught.

7 Efifused, the God flows ouward with his stream to Indra, to the God, So that his milk may strengthen him. 8 Soul of the sacrificey the juice effused flows quickly on : be keeps His ancient wisdom of a Sage. 9 So pouring forth,^ as Indra's Friend, strong drink, best Glad^ dener ! for the feast, Thou, even in secret, storest hymns.

Forth on their way the glorious drops have flowed for maintenance of Law, Knowing this sacrifice's course. 2 Down in the mighty waters sinks the stream of meath, most excellent, Oblation best of all in worth. 3 About the holy ^lace, the Steer true, guileless, noblest, hath sent forth Continuous voices in the wood. 4 When, clothed in manly strength, the Sage flows in celestial wisdom round, The Stron:^ would win the light of heaven. 5 When purifiod, he sits as King above the hosts, among his folk, What time the sages bring him nigh. 5 Whom : relative to juice in the following stanza. Ten dames: thefingera The wood: the vat or trough. 6 To him who bears away the draught : to Indra. Others take hhardya to mean * for strength or prowess in battle.' 9 Even in secret : wisdom lies hidden in the Soma, and cannot be recognized until (Hie drinks the juice. — Ludwig. 2 The mighty waters : the holy waters called vasatiraryah, 3 In the wood : according to Stlyana, vane here = udake, in the water. The stanza is very difficult, and t am unable to offer a satisfactory translation. 4 The Strong : Indra, * Then the mighty (Indra) in heaven is eager to repair to the oblation.' — Wilson.

S Adove the hosts, ainong hi% folk .' or, aia pTelexYed by Pi-of, Ludwig in hid Cowmeatary, above the contending tribes ot i^ov\fe ^-wW^^V)' 6 Dear, golden-coloured, in the fleece he sinks, and settles in the wood : The Singer shows his zeal in hymns. 7 He goes to Indra, V&yu, to the Asvins, as his custom is, With gladdening juice which gives them joy. d The streams of pleasant Soma flow to Bhaga, Mitra-Varuna, — Well-knowing through his mighty powers. 9 Gain for us, O je Heaven and £arth, riches of meath to win us wealth : Gain for us treasures and renown.

Obbting Indra's dear desire these Soma juices have flowed forth, Increasing his heroic might. 2 Laid in the bowl, pure-flowing on to Viyu and the Asvins, may These give us gi'eat heroic strength. 3 Soma, as thou art purified, incite to botinty Indra's heart. To sit jn place of sacritice. 4 The ten swift fingers deck thee forth, seven ministers impel thee on : The sages have rejoiced in thee. 5 When through the filter thou art poured, we clothe thee with a robe of milk To be a gladdening draught for Gods. 6 When purified within the jars, . Soma, bright red and golden- hued. Hath clothed him with a robe of milk. 7 Flow on to us and make us rich. Drive all our enemies away. 0 Indu, flow into thy Friend. 8 Send down the rain from heaven, a stream of opulence from earth. Give us, O Soma, victory in war. 9 May we obtain thee, Indra's drink, who viewest men and findest light, ■ Gain thee, and progeny and food. 8 Well-tenowing, through his mighty powers : that is, the streams tbat, through the power of Soma, know the way they should go. ' The worshippers knowing its (virtues are rewarded) with happiness/ — Wilson.

7 Flow on to us and mdJee us rieh : or, * Flow to v\% Yi«'<dA\Ai^ >4icyni&^Y^^^^* TAy Friend: Indra. Cf. IX, 2. 1. 276 THE HYMNS OP [BOOK iX-

The Sage of Heaven whose heart is wise, when laid between both hands and pressed, Sends us delightful powers of life. 2 On, onward to a glorious home; dear to the people void of guile. With excellent enjoyment, flow. 3 He, the bright Son, when born illumed his Parents who bad sprung to life, Great Son great Strengtheners of Law. 4 Urged by the seven devotions he hath stirred the guileless rivers which Have magnified the Single Eye. 5 These helped to might the Youthful One, high over all, invin- cible. Even Indu, Indra ! in thy law. 6 The Immortal Courser, good to draw, looks down upon the Seven : the fount Hath satisfied the Goddesses. 7 Aid us in holy rites, 0 Man : 0 Pavamana, drive away Dark shades that must be met in fight. 8 Make the paths ready for a hymn newer and newer evermore: Make the lights shine as erst they shone. 9 Give, Pavamana, high renowu, give kine and steeds and hero sons ; Win for us wisdom, win the light.

Like cars that thunder on their way, like coursers eager for renown. Have Soma-drops flowed forth for wealth. 2 Forth have they rushed from holding hands, like chariots that are urged to speed, Like joyful songs of singing-men. 1 The Sage of Heaven : the Soma. Both hands : naptydh : literally, two granddaughtera. Accord! Dg to S^yana, two boards used in pressing the Soma are intended. See Co well's note in Wilson's Translation. 3 His Parents : rndtard : literally, his two mothers ; Heaven and Earth. 4 Seven devotions : practised in the preparation of the Soma. Sdyana takes sapta with nadycih : * gladdens the seven guileless rivers.' — Wilson. Single JPye: Soma, the Moon. ^ Coursei'.' t/ie ilowing Soma. T/i€ Sei'cn ; rivers. The fount: 'Full, as a well be has eatisBed the divine streama.*— "WViftoii. ^ {? Man : manly Soma. BYMir 11.] fBE ntQVEDA. W 3 The Somas deck themselves with milk, as Kings are graoed with eulogies, And, with seven priests, the sacrifice. 4 Pressed for the gladdening draught, the drops flow forth abund- antly with song, The Soma juices in a stream. 5 Winning VivasvUu's glory and producing Morning's light, the Suns Pass through the openings of the cloth.

6 The singing-men of ancient time open the doors of sacred songs, — Men, for the mighty to accept. 7 Combined in close society sit the seven priests, the brother- hood. Filling the station of the One. 8 He gives us kinship with the Gods, and with the Sun unites our eye : The Sage's offspring hath appeared. 9 The Sun with his dear eye beholds that quarter of the heav- ens which priests Have placed within the sacred cell.

Sing forth to Indu, 0 ye men, to him who now is purified, Fain to pay worship to the Gods. 5 The Suns : so called as being creators of the light : ' the sun-bright juices.' — Wilson. Vivasvdn : the morning Sun. 6 Merif for the mighty to accept : * men, offerers of Soma,* according to Sftyana. 7 The seven priests : the adhvaryus who bring the water with which the stiilks of the Soma-plants are sprinkled. The One : Soma. — SAyana. 8 He gives us kinship with the Oods : I follow Prof. Pischel's interpretation of this difficult passage. * Soma unites our navel with the navel of the Gods, our eye with the Sun, that is, he brings us into union with the Gods in heaven.' — Vedische Studien, I., p. (59. * I take into my navel the navel of the sacrifice [the Soma]. ' — Wilson. * He [Soma] as kinsman has brought us a kinsman [Surya].' — Ludwig. The Safe's offspring : a periphrasis for the Sage himself, that is. Soma. — Ludwig. 9 This stanza is very obscure. I have adopted Benfey's explanation who ' here follows an occasional interpretation of div or dyuloka, given by the Scholiast, which identifies it with the dronahalasa or large 8oma-trough. He takes it as meaning that the Sun looks towards the place where the Soma lies

while it is pressed Sftyana seems to interpret thi& vex^e Qi% \£kft«.\ivci%^\^al Indra views the Soma with direction even after It Yiaa \>^«tt. ^>ix^ Ns^ "'^ote pr/esta f£zed in the heart].' -^CoweU, in Wilson's TronftXaXAfttu 27d THE HYMNS OF [BOOK it 2 Together with thy pleasant juice the Atharvans have com- mingled milk, Divine, devoted to the God. 3 Bring, by thy flowing, weal to kine, weal to the people, weal to steeds, Weal, 0 thou King, to growing plants. 4 Sing a praise-song to Soma brown of hue, of independent might, The Red, who reaches up to heaven. 5 Purify Soma when effused with stones which hands move rapidly. And pour the sweet milk in the meath. 6 With humble homage draw ye nigh ; blend the libation with the curds : To Indra offer Indu up. 7 Soma, foe-queller, chief o'er men, doing the will of Gods, pour forth Prosperity upon our kine. 8 Heart-knower, Sovran of the heart, thou art effused, 0 Soma, that Indra may drink thee and rejoice. 9 0 Soma Pavamana, give us riches and heroic strength, — Indu ! with Indra for ally.

To Indra have the Soma-drops, exceeding rich in sweets, been poured, Shed in the seat of sacrifice. 2 As mother kine low to their calves, to Indra have the sages called, Called him to drink the Soma juice. 3 In the stream's wave wise Soma dwells, distilling rapture, in his seat. Resting upon a wild-cow's hide. 4 Far-sighted Soma, Sage and Seer, is worshipped in the central point Of heaven, the straining-cloth of wool. -^ — - I ■ ■ I ' ~ — • — ' ~ • ~ 2 The Atharvans : the priests, wbo perform the duties of the AdbvaryuB. 3 King : the usual designation of Soma in the Br^hmapa. 4 The Red : kaddchtdarunavwrndya : * sometimes red-coloured.* — Sftjana. 8 In the 9tream*s toave : in the water with which the stalks are spnnkled. Upon a wild^ow's hide : this, which is Benfey's explanation of gauri, seems to be borne out by g6r ddhi tvacM, upon tVv^ oit'Vvvde, of IX. 101. H, Sdjrapa'e interpretation is different ; * to a chant m \>aft m\^^\^ Viw^! -\^*i^sm.\x» 4 QfAeaven : dimh : see IX. 10. 9, Mxd uote. Mr MS 18 J THE RIOVEDA. 27»

5 In close embraees lodu holds Soma when poured withiu the jars, And on the purifying sieve. 6 Indu sends forth a voice on high to regions of the sea of air. Shaking the vase that drops with mcath. 7 The Tree whose praises never fail yields heavenly milk among our hymuB, Urging men's generations on. 8 The Wise One, with the Sage's stream, the Soma urged to speed, flows on To the dear places of the sky. 9 0 Pavamana, bring us wealth bright with a thousand splen- dours, yea, 0 ludu, give us ready help.

Passed through the fleece in thousand streams the Soma, purified, flows- on To In<1ra's, Vayu's special place. 2 Sin^ forth, ye men who long for help, to PavamA.na, to the Sage, Effused to entertain the Gods. 3 The S'>ma-drop8 with thousand powers are purified for victory, Hymned to become the feast of Gods. 4 Yea, as thou flowest bring great store of food that we may win the spoil : Indu, bring splendid manly might. 5 May they in flowing give us wealth in thousands, and heroic power, — These Godlike Soma-drops effused. 5 Indu, holdt. Soma : 'the deity seems to be thus opposed to the mere plant.* — Coweir« note. Ludwig snggeata that Indu here m ly be the Moon, as the time of important liturgical cerentonies depends upon the Moon's phases. So also Hillebrandt, F. if., I., p. 316. 6 To regions of the sea of air : or samudrdsya h^re may mean, of the sea or water into which the Soma juice falls. Shaking ; or, i»erhaps, stirring (with joy). T/ie vase : kdsam : the dronaJcaluita. the large wooden vessel for holding the juice. According to Sd,yana, whose interpretation I have followed in the first line, kdsam here means the cloud.

7 The Tree: Soma. MerCt generations: sacrificial seasons, acc<»rding to SAyana. 1 fndra's, V^iiu*s specml place : the vessels especially prepared to hold libations intended for Indra and V4yu. 3 For victory : vdjasdtaye : * for the attainment of food.' — Wilson. So 84yana in stanzas 3 and 4 ; but in 6 the w«)rd ia expVamed V>^ »m>gTA-K\A>j<i.^ to battle, in the drst cMhiae where he inserts it aitev Kijidutt^^ ut^<&^, %ja^ ^:" anna/d^jAdifo, for the attainment oi food, in the eeooi^ c\»!attfe. 286 Tff^ HYMNS OF [BOOK IX 6 Like coursers by their drivers urged, they were poured forth, for victory, Swift through the woollen straining-cloth. 7 Noisily flow the Soma-drops, like milch-kine lowing to their calves : They have ran forth from both the hands. 8 As Gladdener whom Indra loves, 0 Pavam^na, with a roar Drive all our enemies away. 9 0 PavamUnas, driving ofiF the godless, looking on the light, Sit iu the place of sacrifice.

Reposing on the river's wave the Sage hath widely flowed around, Bearing the hymn which many love. 2 When the Five kindred Companies, active in duty, with the song Establish him, the Powerful, 3 Then in his juice whose strength is great, have all the Gods rejoiced themselves, "When he hath clothed him in the milk. 4 Freeing himself he flows away, leaving his body's severed limbs, And meets his own Companion here. 5 He by the daughters of the priest, like a fair youth, hath been adorned. Making the milk, as 'twere, his robe. 6 O'er the fine fingers, through desire of milk, in winding course he goes. And utters voice w^hich he bath found. 7 The nimble fingers have approached, adorning him the Lord of Strength : They grasp the vigorous Courser's back. 8 With a roar : making a loud noise in dropping. 1 On the river's wave : in the vasatlvari waters, which are used to sprinkle the stalks Bearing the hymn : Prof. Geldaer explains this as meaning, * Bearing away the much coveted prize,* Soma being regarded as a courser or racehorse. See Vedische StudieUj I., p. 120. 2 Five kindred Compainei : referriug, probably, to some sacrifice instituted iu common by representatives of the five Aryan tribes.

4 His own Companion : Indra. He meets : this {sangato hhavati) is S^yana's explanation of samjighnate ; but it is not easy to see how the word can bear t^/i/s aignifieation, 6 /Muffkeers : or granddaughters ; the ^ngeTO. ^ fVAlcA ke hath found ; ' which the woraVup^t Te<io^\tfi!&? — '^'^i^w* St Mir 16.1 TBS RIOVEDA. 281 1 8 Comprising all th6 treasures that are in the heavens and on the earth, Gome, Soma, as our faithful Friend.

Through the fine fingers, with the song, this Hero comes with rapid cars, Groing to [ndra's special place. 2 In holy thought he ponders much for the great worship of the Gods, Where the Immortals have .their seat. 3 Like a good horse is he led out, when on the path that shines with light The mettled steeds exert their strength. 4 He brandishes his horns on high, and whets them. Bull who leads the herd, Doing with might heroic deeds. 5 He moves, a vigorous Steed, adorned with beauteous rays of shining gold. Becoming Sovran of the streams. 6 He, over places rough to pass, bringing rich treasures closely packed. Descends into the reservoirs. 7 Men beautify him in the vats, him worthy to be beautified. Him who brings forth abundant food. 8 Him, even him, the fingers ten and the seven songs make beautiful, Well-weaponed, best of gladdeners.

The pressers from the Soma-press send forth thy juice for rapturous joy : The speckled sap runs like a flood. 1 Indra's ipeciaZ place: ' Indra's abode.' — -Wilson. In Hymn XIII. 1, nishkritam is explained by SAyana as the vessel prepared and set apart. 3 Like a good horse : the text has only hitdh which may mean either good or placed. * Placed (in the cart) he is brought.' — Wilson. 4 ffoms : cf . IX. 5. 2. 6 Rays of shining gold : as the Moon. 6 Places rough to pass : the wool of the strainer. SAyana gives a totally different explanation of this stanza. See Wilson's Translation. I have followed Prof. Ludwig. 8 Sefven songs : the songs of the seven priests. 1 From the Soma-pi'ess : onybhy ablative c\ua\ oi ont, %\^\\fYC^% ^^'\^««o^'' an implemeut or a, veasel, consisting of two ]plecea/\xft^^ m xXi^i ^x'S'^wa! 2 With strength we follow through the sieve him who brings might and wins the kine, Enrobed in water with his juice. 3 Pour on the sieve the Soma, ne'er subdued in waters, waterless, And make it pure for Indra's drink, 4 Moved by the purifier's thought, the Soma flows into the sieve : By wisdom it hath gained its home.

5 With humble homage, Indra, have the Soma-drops flowed forth to thee. Contending for the glorious prize. 6 Purified in his fleecy garb, attaining every beauty, he Stands, hero-like, amid the kine. 7 Swelling, as 'twere, to heights of heaven, the stream of the creative juice Falls lightly on the cleansing sieve. 8 Thus, Soma, purifying him who knoweth song mid living men, Thou wanderest through the cloth of wool.

Like rivers down a steep descent, slaying the Vritras, full of zeal, The rapid Soma-streams have flowed. 2 The drops of Soma juice efl'used fall like the rain upon the earth : To Indra flow the Soma-streams. 3 With swelling wave the gladdening drink, the Soma, flows into the sieve. Loving the Gods and slaying fiends. 4 It hastens to the pitchers, poured upon the sieve it waxes strong At sacrifices through the lauds. 5 Soma, thou shinest mounting heaven as 'twere above light's triple realm. And moving seem'st to speed the Sun. of the Soma juice. The word is said to be employed to denote, metapliorically, heaven and earth. * They who express thee, the juice of heaven and earth.' — Wilson. 3 Waterl&is : dnaptam, which S^yana explains by andptam^ not reached, or overtaken, by enemies. The mMaui'iig is not clear. 4 Its home : in the Uirge wooden vessel called dronakalasa. 5 Contending for the f/lonom prize : like race-horses. *' Giving thee vigour for the great ooutiict,' — Wilaon. ^ Addressed to Soma as the M*wn. 6 To him, the head of sacrifice, singers and bards have sung their songs, Offering what he loves to see.

7 The men, the sages with their hymns, eager for help, deck thee strong steed, Deck thee for service of the Gods. 8 Flow onward to the stream of meath : rest efficacious in thy home. Fair, to be drunk at sacrifice.

Thou, Soma, dweller on the hills, effused, hast flowed into the sieve : All-bounteous art thou in carouse. 2 Thou art a sacred Bard, a Sage ; the meath is offspring of thy sap ; All-bounteous art thou in carouse. 3 All Deities of one accord have come that they may drink of thee : All-bounteous art thou in carouse. 4 He who containeth in his hands all treasures much to be desired : All-bounteous art thou in carouse. 5 Who milketh out this mighty Pair, the Earth and Heaven, like mother kine : All-bounteous art thou in carouse. 6 Who in a moment mightily floweth around these two world- halves : All-bounteous art thou in carouse. 7 The Strong One, being purified, hath in the pitchers cried aloud : All-bounteous art thou in carouse.

0 Soma, being purified bring us the wondrous treasure, meet For lauds, that is in earth and heaven. 6 7%€ head of BCLcHfice : the most important element of the ceremony. According to S&yana, at the head, that is, on the last and most important Hay of the effusion of the Soma juice. Offering what he loves to see : * entertaining affection for bim the all-beholding.* — Wilscm. 8 Meath : or honey. In thy home : in the dronafcala%a. 1 J?welleron the hilU : 'pressed, between the at<mea:—\^V\asiXi. 2 For ye Twain, Indra, Soma, are Lords of the lighl^ Lords of the kine : Great Rulers, prosper ye our songs. 3 The tawny Steer, while cleansed among the living, bellowing on the grass. Hath sunk and settled in his home. 4 Over the Steer's productive flow the sacred songs were resonant, The mothers of the darling Son. 5 Hath he not, purified, impregned the kine who long to meet their Lord, The kine who yield the shining milk ? 6 Bring near us those who stand aloof : strike fear into our enemies : 0 Pavam^na, find us wealth. 7 Soma, bring down the foeman's might, his vigorous strength

and vital power, Whether he be afar or near.

Forth through the straining-cloth the Sage flows to the banquet of the Gods, Subduing all our enemies. 2 For he, as PavamS,na, sends thousandfold treasure in the shape Of cattle to the singing-men. 3 Thou graspest all things with thy mind, and purifiest thee with thoughts : As such, 0 Soma, find us fame. 4 Pour lofty glory on us, send sure riches to our liberal lords, Bring food to those who sing thy praise. 5 As thou art cleansed, 0 Wondrous Steed, 0 Soma, thou hast entered, like A pious King, into the songs. 6 He, Soma, like a courser in the floods invincible, made clean With hands, is resting in the jars. 4 Hymns are sung over the Soma -stream, and are called mothers of the precious juice because it is prepared while they are sung. 5 The kine : the vasativari waters which long to mingle with the Soma. ^ Sfeed: vahne: * bearer (of our offermgaV— "VrVVftOTi. 6 ZUe a courser : ' the bearer (of oblatioxxay.— "NS^VV^otx. STMN ni THE RIQVEDA, 281 7 Disporting, like a liberal chief, thon goest) Soma, to the sieve, Lending the laud a Hero's strength.

To Indra flow these running drops, these Somas frolicsome in mood. Exhilarating, finding light ; 2 Driving off foes, bestowing room upon the presser, willingly Bringing their praiser vital force. 3 Lightly disporting them, the drops flow to one conmion reservoir, And fall into the river's wave. 4 These Pavam^nas have obtained all blessings much to be desired, Like coursers harnessed to a car. 5 With view to us, 0 Soma-drops, bestow his manifold desire On him who yet hath given us naught. 6 Bring us our wish with this design, as a wright brings his new- wrought wheel : Flow pure and shining with the stream. 7 These drops have cried with resonant voice : like swift steeds they have run the course. And roused the good man's hymn to life.

Thbsb rapid Soma-streams have stirred themselves to motion like strong steeds. Like cars, like armies hurried forth. 2 Swift as wide winds they lightly move, like rain-storms of Parjanya, like The flickering flames of burning fire. 3 These Soma juices, blent with curds, purified, skilled in sa- cred hymns, Have gained by song their hearts' desire. 4 Immortal, cleansed, these drops, since first they flowed, have never wearied, fain To reach the region and their paths. 7 Chief: Sftyana explains makkdk by ddnam, gift. 5 This stanza is obscure, and S&yana's commentary is imperfect. It seems that the Soma-drops are prayed to enrich the institutor of the sacrifice who has not as yet rewarded the priests. 7 Run the course : reached the drondkalafa. 3 By song : vip^ : by knowledge, according to S&yana. * The St. Petersb. Diet, explains vip as the twigs (cf. vepres) which. ioTm. tVva )aot^\!CL ol -^Jaa funnel and support the iSJteriug-cloth,* — CoweW, \Jl'^V\aatlL^'^t«Q.^^5^a"\i.. 5 Advancing they have travelled o'er the ridges of the earth and heaven, And this the highest realm of all. • 6 Over the heights have they attained the highest thread that is spun out, Ami this which must be deemed most high.

7 Thou, Soma, holdest wealth in kine which thou hast seized from niggard churls : Tliou calledst forth the outspun thread. HYMN XXrri. Soma Pavamftna. Swift Soma drops have been effused in stream of meath, the gladdening drink, For sacred lore of every kind. 2 Hither to newer resting-place the ancient Living Ones are come. They miade the Sun that he might shine. 3 0 Pavamana, bring to us the unsacrificing foeman's wealth, And give us food with progeny. 4 The living Somas bein? cleansed diffuse exhilarating drink, Turned to the vat which drips with meath. 5 Soma flows on intelligent, possessing sap and mighty strength, Brave Hero who repels the curse. 6 For Indra, Soma ! thou art cleansed, a feast-companion for the Gods : Indu, thou fain wilt win us strength. 7 When he had drunken draughts of this, Indra smote down resistless foes : Yea, smote them, and shall smite them still.

HiTHBRWARD have the Somas streamed, the drops while they are purified : When blent, in waters they are rinsed. 6 Or, * Streams rushing down have filled the threads, most excellent, spread out beneath ' ; that is, the threads d the straining-cloth. See note in Wilson. According to SAyana * the thread ' is sacrifice ; and ' this which must be deemed most higii ' may be, as Ludwig suggests, the place of sacrifice which is also to be held holy. Wilson translates the second line :— ' this rite is glorified thereby.' 7 Fi-om niggard churls : or from the Papis. Th(m calledst out the (mtspun thread : * tb»u hast called aloud at the outspread sacrifice.'— Wilson. 2 JVewer resting-place : a newly- prepared p\«ucft ol ^wix\^e<i. The ancieni Zivififf Ones: the SomadropB. SYMlfUi THE RIO VEDA. ' 387 2 The milk hath run to meet them like floods nishing down a precipice : They come to Indra, being cleansed. 3 0 Soma Pavamana, thou art flowing to be Indra's drink : The men hare seized and lead thee forth. 4 Victorious, to be hailed with joy, 0 Soma, flow, delighting men, To him who ruleth o'er mankind.

5 Thou, Indu, when, effnsed by stones, thou runnest to the filter, art Keady for Indra's high decree. 6 Flow on, best Vntra-slayer ; flow meet to be hailed with joyful lauds. Pure, purifying, wonderful. 7 Pure, purifying is he called, the Soma of the meath eff'used. Slayer of sinners, dear to Gods.

Grbbn-hued ! as one who giveth strength flow on for Gods to drink, a draught For Vayu and the Marut host. 2 0 Pavamana, sent by song, roaring about thy dwelling-place, Pass into V4yu as Law bids. 3 The Steer shines with the Deities, dear Sage in his appointed home, Foe-slayer, most beloved by Gods. 4 Taking each beauteous form, he goes, desirable, while purified, Thither where the Immortals sit. 5 To Indra Soma flows, the Red, engendering song, exceeding wise, . The visitor of living men. 4 to him who ruleth o'er mankind : to Indra. 5 Ready few Indra' s high decree : Wilson, following Sdivana, translates : ' an amitle portion for Indra's beliy.' See Bergaigne, La Jkeligion V6dique, III. 210 ff., for tbe meaning of dMnian in the lligveda. 2 Into Vdyu : into the vessel appropriated to VAyu — Sftyana. 6 The Red : arushdh : here explained by S&yana as = drocha/mdnah, shining or radiant The visitor of litfing men : dyushdk : the meaning of this word is uncertain. The St. Petersburg Lexicon explains it as, conjointly with men ; with human co-operation. Ludwig in his translation renders it by •der den lebenden besucht,* who visits tbe living man ; but in his Commentary suggests that it maj mean, during the whoV« al Me. ^Qj^'Cki^X.'dxCO^N^ Wilson.

6 Flow, best exhilarator, Sage, flow to the filter in a stream To seat thee in the place of song.

Thb sages with the fingers' art have dressed and decked that vigorous Steed Upon the lap of Aditi. 2 The kine have called aloud to him exhaustless with a thou- sand streams, To Indu who support eth heaven. 3 Him, nourisher of many, Sage, creative Pavamana, they llave sent, by wisdom, to the sky. 4 Him, dweller with Vivasvan, they with use of both arms have sent forth, The Lord of Speech infallible. 5 Him, green, beloved, many-eyed, the Sisters with the pressing- stones Send down to ridges of the sieve. 6 0 Pavamana, Indu, priests hurry thee on to Indra, thee Who aidest song and cheerest him.

This Sage, exalted by our lauds, flows to the purifying cloth, Scattering foes as he is cleansed. 2 As giving power and winning light, for Indra and for Vayu he Is poured upon the filtering-cloth. 3 The men conduct him, Soma, Steer, Omniscient, and the Head ^ of Heaven, Effused into the vats of wood. 6 Of song : arkdsya : archantyasyendrasya^ of the adorable Indra, according to Sdyana. Arka has two meanings in the Rigveda (1) song or hyran of praise and (2) light or splendour. See Pischel, Vediscfie Studien, 1. pp. 23—26. 1 Aditi : the earth. 2 The kine : who supply the milk that is mixed with the Soma juice. 4 Vivasvdn : meaning here the sacrificer. Of both arms : bhuHjoh : according to Saya7a = 6.1Ayo{i, the arms of the body. The St. Petersburg Lexicon explains the word as meaning a sort of vice or implement for holding wood while it is being cut. Lord of speech : making men eloquent. 5 Many-eyed: * far-beholding.* — Wilson. The Sisters: the fingers of the S O'nniscfent : or, all- possessing. VaU of toood : m'«**^va: according to Beafey, into the streama oi water. 4r Longing for kine, longing for gold hath Indu Pavam^na lowed, Still Conqueror, never overcome.

5 This Pavam^na, gladdening draught, drops on the filtering - cloth, and then Mounts up with SArya to the sky. 6 To Indra in the firmament this mighty tawny Steer hath flowed, This Indu, being purified.

Urged by the men, this vigorous Steed, Lord of the mind. Omniscient, Runs to the woollen straining-cloth. 2 Within the filter hath he flowed, this Soma for the Gods effused, Entering all their essences. 3 He shines in beauty there, this God Immortal in his dwelling- place. Foe-slayer, dearest to the Gods. 4 Directed by the Sisters ten, bellowing on his way this Steer Runs onward to the wooden vats. 5 This PavamiLna, swift and strong. Omniscient, gave splendour to The Sun and all his forms of light. 6 This Soma, being purified, flows mighty and infallible. Slayer of sinners, dear to Gods.

Forward with mighty force have flowed the currents of this Steer eff'used, Of him who sets him by the Gods. 2 The singers praise him with their song, and learned priests adorn the Steed, Brought forth as light that merits laud. 3 These things thou winnest lightly while purified, Soma, Lord of wealth : Fill full the sea that claims our praise. 4 Longing for kine : who supply milk to mix with the Soma juice. Gold : worn on th« finger of the priest who presses out the juice. Loiced : made a noise in dropping. 5 Mounts up : as the Moon. 1 Who sets him hy the Oods : or, who decorates the Gk)ds. * "Who ««,^"fca. \jci surpass the goda.* — WHaon. 3 TAesetkinffs: for which we pray. The <ea ; the ^omai-^^^ ot xeafcT^wt* 19 ?aa - ^HE sn/j^ of i^qok 4 Winning all pirepiQu^ things at oaq^, flow on, Q Spn^ft^ with thy stream : Drive to one plac^ our enemies. 5 Preserve us from the godless, from ill-omened voice of qne and all, That so we may be freed from blame. 6 0 Indu, as thou flowest on bring us the wealth of earth and

heaven, And splendid vigour, in thy stream.

Streams of this Potent One have flowed easily to the atTain- ing-cloth : While he is cleansed he lifts his voice. 2 Indu, by pressers urged to speed,, bellowing out while beautijfied, Sends forth a very migh^ty sound. 3 Pour on us, Soma, with thy stream man-conquering might which many crave, Accompanied with hero sons. 4 Hither hath Pavamana flowed) Soma, flowedi Either i^ ^i stream, To settle ip. the yats. of wood. 5 To waters with the stones they drive thee tawny-hued, most rich in sweets, 0 Indu, to be Indra's drink, 6 For Indra,for the Thunderer press the Spma very rich ija sweets, Lovely, inspiritiDg, for strength.

The Soma-drops, benevolent, come forth as tfeey are purified. Bestowing wealth which all ipay see* 2 O Indu, high o'er he%yen and earth be thou^ increaser of our might : The Master of all strength be thou. 3 The windis^ are. gracio^i^ in tbeir love to thee, the riven? flow to thee : Soma, they multiply thy power. 5 Ill-omened voice : svan^t, explained by Sdyan^ ^a ~ iah(iXnnind4r4lfpd.t^ Bapnd or word in the form of blame; the raging fury of the demon, or the go(]Lleaa man, according to Grassmann. 2 A very mighty sound : or, a sound which Indra loves. i Wealih which all may 8u : * inteUectuaV -weakWiXi.* — ^^Usoa. $ TAe, winds: ct ' V^u is S(im«^'« guwdVwLQiQ^' ^,.^VV^, »JF»» «J TBS JtmVJlPA. 2M 4 Sam»^ vax great. Ffqih ererj aside may vigorous powers unite in thee : Be in the gathering-place of strength. 5 For thee, brown-hued ! the kine^ hftve poured uaperishabto oil and milk Aloft on the sublimest height. 6 Friendship, 0 Indu, we desire with thee who hearest noble With thee, 0 Lord of all that is.

The rapture-shedding Soma-drops, effused in our assembly, have Flowed forth to glorify our prince. 2 Then Trita's Maidens onward urge the Tawny-coloured with the stones, Indu for Indra, for his drink. 3 Now like a swan he maketh all the company sing each his hymn : He, like a steed, is bathed in milk. 4 0 Soma, viewing heaven and earth, thou runnest like a dart- ing deer : Set in the place of sacrifice. 5 The cows have sung with joy to him, even as a woman to her lo:^©: He came as to a settled ra.oe. G Best<>w illustrious fame on u^, both osn: our liberal lords and me. Glory, intelligence, and wealth. I .K >IJL|IP» I ■»»■»> III 11 Ul. 1 II 4 This stanza has occurred before. See I. 91. 16. Be in the gathering^ place of. sUieng^ : be the centrai' point and source of alt power. 5 The hine : of the clouds, the waters. Oil and milk : sweet and fertilizing rain. Or the cows who supply nailk for tb«^ lil^tio^ in^ 1)9 i^1<ei^e<i; in which case ' the sublimest ' would be the place of sacrifice. 1 Our prince : the noble who institutes the sacrifice.

2 Ttita]9 3faiden8 : the fingers of the priest. See IX. 88. 2. 3 Like a swan: as a sentinel hansa (swan, wild-goose, or flamingo) a^ th^ approach of danger sounds a note of alarm which i9 answered by aljl the rest.— tudwig. 4 Darting: S&yana takes taktah with 't^QU,* SojqoAy t^. ei^pl^s it by gavyaih paj/aidibhirmisritajh san, being mixed, with milk, curds, etc. ^1^- ' where S&yana explains it by * swift.* 5 CowA : pcaises, a^ording to Siy^na. Ajk <o « setil^ fH^e: tfi a l^prs^ is brought to run a race that has been arranged. ' As a hero hastens to t\x^, yrelcome contest/ — Wilson,

Like waves of waters, skilled in song the juices of the Soma speed Onward, as buffaloes to woods. 2 With stream of sacrifice the brown bright drops have flowed with strength in store Of kine into the wooden vats. 3 To Indra, V&ju, Varuna, to Vishnu, and the Maruts, flow The drops of Soma juice eff'used. 4 Three several words are uttered : kine are lowing, cows who give their milk : The Tawuy-hued goes bellowing on. 5 The young and sacred mothers of the holy rite have uttered praise : They decorate the Child of Heaven. 6 From every side, 0 Soma, for our profit, pour thou forth four seas Filled full of riches thousandfold. PYMN XXXIV. Soma Pavam&na. The drop of Soma juice effused flows onward with this stream impelled, Eending strong places, with its might. 2 Poured forth, to Indra, Varuna, to Vayu and the Marut host, To Vishnu, flows the Soma juice. 3 With stones they press the Soma forth, the Strong conducted by the strong : They milk the liquor out with $kill. 4 'Tis he whom Trita must refine, 'tis he who shall make Indra glad: The Tawny One is decked with tints. ■ — ■ I — - ■ ■ -I I I ■ ■ _ I

4 Three several words. : accordiog to SAyana, trividhd ttutihy praise of three kinds, from the tbree Vedas. * The priests utter the three sacred texts.' — Wilson. Probably three triplets chanted during the ceremony. See Bergaigne, I. 288. 5 Mothers of the holy Hte : apparently, the cows who supply milk for libations. The Child of Heaven : the Soma, which, according to a text quoted by Sftyana, * was in the third heaven from hence.* 6 Four seas : imaginary seas, to correspond with the four quarters of heavefi. 2 Sironff places : the strongholds of enemies, the fiends who withhold the 4 Trita: tpe prfipsurer of the Celestial Soma. MYMX Mv] THE RIQVEDA, 29S 5 Him do the Sons of Pvisni milk, the dwelling-place of sacrifice, Oblation lovely and most dear. 6 To him in one united stream these songs flow on straight forward : he, Loud-voiced, hath made the milch-kine low.

Pot7R forth on us abundant wealth, 0 Pavam&na, with thy stream, Wherewith thou mayest find us light. 2 0 Indu, swayer of the sea, shaker of all things, flow thou on. Bearer of wealth to us with might. 3 With thee for Hero, Valiant One ! may we subdue our ene- mies : Let what is precious flow to us. 4 Indu arouses strength, the Sage who strives for victory, winning power, Discovering holy works and means. 5 Mover of speech, we robe him with our songs as he is purified. Soma, the Guardian of the folk ; 6 On whose way, Lord of Holy Law, most rich, as he is purified, The people all have set their hearts.

Forth from the mortar is the juice sent, like a car-horse, to the sieve : The Steed steps forward to the goal. 2 Thus, Soma, watchful, bearing well, cheering the Gods, flow past the sieve. Turned to the vat that drops with meath. 5 The diDdling -place of sacrifice : the Soma-plant contains within itself the chief element of sacrifice, and the preparation of the juice is only the development of its nature. — Ludwig. 2 The sea : the reservoir of Soma juice. 4 Discovering holy works and means : * acquainted with sacred rites and arms.* — Wilson. 6 On whose way : on whose statutes or decrees. 1 To the goal : Mrshman : apparently, a line or furrow drawn across the end of the race-course. In I. 116. 17, S&yana explains Mrshman as a piece of wood serving as a goal, but in this place he takes it to mean, * the Godattracting battle-field called a sacrifice/ devdndmdkarshanavati yajndkhye tangrdme. See CowelFs note in Wilson*^ TraiiBlatiou, £ The mi; the dronakala^a. »i THE nTMNS i^P [BOOK I^. 3 Excellent Pavatnftna, make the lights shine brightly out for us : Speed as to n^eoital power and skill.

4 He, beautified by pious men, and coming from their liands adorned, Flows through the fleecy «trainin^-eloth. 5 May Soma pour all treasures of the heavens, the earth, the firmament Upon the liberal worshipper. 6 Thou mountest to the height of heaven, 0 Soma, seeking steeds and kine. And seeking heroes, Lord of Strength ! HYMN XXXVri. Soma PKvamftna. Soma, the Steer, effused for draught, flows to the purifying sieve, Slaying the fiends, k)vmg the Gods. 2 Far-sighted, tawny-coloured, he flows to the sieve, intelligent. Bellowing, to his place of rest. 3 This vigorous Pavamllna runs forth to the luminous realm of heaven. Fiend-slayer, through the fleecy sieve. 4 This Pavam&na up above Trita's high ridge hath mad^ the Sun, Togeth^ with the Sisters^ shine. 5 This Vritra-filaying Steer, eff'used, Soma, room-giver, ne'er deceived. Hath gone, as 'twere, to win the ^oil. 6 Urged onward by the sagei, the God speeds forward to the casks of wood, Indu to Indra willingly. HYMN XXXYin. Soma Pavamftna. This Steer, this Chariot, rashes through the woollen Alter, as he goes To war that wins a thousand spoils. 1 For draught : pttdye : * for the drinking (of the gods).' — Wilson. 2 Intelligent : or, endowed with strength.

4 Trita*8 high ridye : according to Siyana, ' the high place (of the sacrifice) of Trita' the Rishi. But the heavenly home of Trita, the celestial preparer of the Soma for Indra, is intended. T7ie Siitera : the Dawns. 6 JF»i/i»^Z^; manJMnd; 'plenteously.* — Ludwig. * In his might.* — Co well. 1 To ufar that wins a thdmomd spoils : mote UV.«wX\::f »\.^ VJidlw\«wAV^\sn»Vj^ or deed of might. 8 The Dante of Trita With the atones onward impel this Tawny On©, Indu to Indra for his drink. 3 Ten active fingers carefully adOm him here ; they make him bright And beauteous for the gladdening draught. 4 He like a fcdcon settles down amid th6 families of men. Speeding like lover to his love. 5 This young exhilarating juice looks downward from its place in heaven, This Soma-drop that pierced the sieve« 6 Poured for the draught, this tawny juice flows forth, intel- ligent, crying out, Unto the well-belov6d place.

Tlow on, 0 thou of lofty thought, flow swift in thy beloved form. Saying, I go where dwell the Gods. 2 Preparing what is unprepared, and bringing store of food to man. Make thou the rain descend from heaven. 3 With might, bestowing power, the juice enters the purifying sieve, Far-seeing, sending forth its light. 4 This is it which in rapid course hath with the river's wave flowed down From heaven upon the straining-cloth. 5 Inviting him from far away, and even from near at hand; the juice For Indra is poured forth as meath. 6 In union they have sung the hymn ; with stones they urge the Tawny One. Sit in the place of sacrifice. 2 The Dames of Trita : as Trita is the celestial purifier of the Soma, the fingers of the earthly purifiers are called hia dames, or his maidens as in IX. 32. 2. 5 Prom iti place in heaven : or divdh may be the genitive case, taken with fifuhy the Child of Heaven, as in IX. 33. />. 6 The well-beloved place : the dronakalaga or vat in which it rests. 2 Preparing what U unprepared : * consecrating the unconsecrated worshipper or place,' is SAyapa'a explanation. tf Si^/ O QodB.S&y&nak.

The Very Active hath assailed, while purified, all enemies : They deck the Sage with holy songs. 2 The Red hath mounted to his place ; to Indra goes the mightj juice : He settles in his firm abode. 3 0 Indu, Soma, send us now great opulence from every side, Pour on us treasures thousandfold. 4 0 Soma PavamS,na, bring, Indu, all splendours hitherward : Find for us food in boundless store. 5 As thou art cleansed, bring hero strength and riches to thy worshipper, And prosper thou the singer's hymns. 6 0 Indu, Soma, being cleansed, bring hither riches doubly- piled. Wealth, mighty Indu, meet for lauds,

Active aud bright have they come forth, impetuous iu speed like bulls, Driving the black skin far away. 2 Quelling the riteless Dasyu, may we think upon the bridge of bliss. Leaving the bridge of woe behind. 3 The mighty Pavamdna'a roar is heard as 'twere the rush of rain : Lightnings are flashing to the sky. 4 Pour out on us abundant food, when thou art pressed, 0 Indu, wealth In kine and gold aud steeds and spoil. 5 Flow on thy way, Most Active, thou : fill full the mighty heav- ens and earth, As Dawn, as Surya with his beams. 2 The Red : Soma. HU place : the dronahalatdy or reservoir. His firm abode: heaven. 6 Doubly-piled : dvibdrkasam : according to S&yapa, * from both worlds, heaven and earth . ' 1 They : the Soma juices. The black skin : meaning, apparently, both the black pall or covering of night and the R&kshasas or dark-skinned Dasyus or hostile aborigines. 3 The cleanaing of the terrestrial Soma is identified with the puriBcation of the ceJestial nectar accompanied by raiii ou^ U^\<Txm^. S^q HiUebrandt, y. J/. 343, 362, STMm 4S.1 THE tUQVEDA, 297 6 Oq every side, 0 Soma, flow round us with thy protecting stream, As Ras^ flows around the world.

Engendering the Sun in floods, engendering heaven's lights, greeu-hued, Robed in the waters and the milk, 2 According to primeval plan this Soma, with his stream, efiiised Flows purely on, a God for Gods. 3 For him victorious, waxen great, the juices with a thousand powers Are purified for winning spoil. 4 Shedding the ancient fluid he is poured into the cleansing sieve : • He, thundering, hath produced the Gods. 5 Soma, while purifying, sends hither all things to be desired. He sends the Gods who strengthen Law. 6 Soma, efi^used, pour on us wealth in kine, in heroes, steeds, and spoil. Send us abundant store of food.

We will enrobe with sacred song the Lovely One who, as a Steed, Is decked with milk for rapturous joy. 2 All songs of ours desiring grace adorn him in the ancient way, Indu for ludra, for his drink. 3 Soma flows on when purified, beloved and adorned with songs, Songs of the sage Medhyatithi. 4 0 Soma Pavam^ua, find exceeding glorious wealth for us. Wealth, Indu, fraught with boundless might. 5 Like courser racing to the prize Indu, the lover of the Gods, Roars, as he passes, in the sieve. 6 Read : a mythical stream that flows round the atmosphere and the earth. See V. 41. 15, and X. 108. 1. 1 In floods : in the waters on high ; in the firmament. 4 Hath produced the Gods: yatra so mo 'bhishHyate tatra devd niyatampr^durbhavanti; where Soma is effused, there the gods constantly appear. — Sftyana. 1 As a steed : is bathed in water. For rapturous joy : * for the exhilaration (of the gods).* — Wilson. 3 Medhydtithi : the Bishi of the hymn. 5 ^acin^ to the prize': vdjcisrit : 'rushing into baUW—'^V^WMU %n Tss HYMNS 0^ [noo^ n 6 Flow on thy way to win us strength, to speed the sage wh praises thee : Soma, bestow heroic power.

Indu, to us for this great rite, bearing as 'twere thy wave t Gods, Unwearied, thou art flowing forth. 2 Pleased with the hymn, impelled by prayer, Soma is hurrie far away, The Wise One in the Singer's stream. 3 Watchful among the Gods, this juice advances to the clean ing sieve : Soma, most active, travels on. 4 Flow onward, seeking strength for us, embellishing the saci fice : The priest with trimmed grass calleth thee. 6 May Soma, ever bringing power to Bhaga and to Vjlyu, Sage And Hero, lead us to the Gods. 6 So, to increase our wealth to-day, Tnspirer, best of Furtherers Win for us strength and high renown.

Flow, thou who viewest men, to give delight, to entertain tl Gods, Indu, to Indra for his drink. 2 Stream to thine embassy for us : thou hastenest, for Indra, 1 The Gods, 0 better than our friends. 3 We balm thee, red of hue, with milk to fit thee for the raj tnrous joy : Unbar for us the doors of wealth. 6 Heroic povoer : 'excellent male offspring.* — Wilson. 1 For this great rite : * to give us abundant wealth.* — Wilson. Unweariec aytjtsyah : according to S&yana, this is the name of the Rishi : ' Ay&sg (goeth) towards the gods (in sacrifice).' — Wilson. 2 Thou hastenest : SA.jana gives a different explanation of this part of t1 stanza : 'thou (who) art drunk for Indra, (pour) on the gods wealth for (i their) friendB. ' — Wilson. I have adopted lAid-wv^'a interpretation. 3 We balm thee, red of Ime : or, * Yea, -we a/dotn V)aa«i, T«i^' ^w \Va t« eurousjo^ : niikdiya : ' for the purpose oi ex\L\\Bi.TaX.vycL' — •'^'^wx. MYMJft *5.] ^HE RIOTED A. »• 4 He thtough the sieve hath passed, as comes a courser to the pole, to rim : Indu belongs unto t^e Gods.

5 All friends have lauded him as he sports in the wood, beyond the fleece: Singers have chanted Indu's praise. 6 Flow, Indu, with that stream wherein steeped thou announc- est to the noan Who worships thee heroic strength.

XiEB al)le coursers they have been sent forth to be the feast of Gods, Joying tn mwutrtaina, flowing on. 2 To V&yu flow the Soma-streams, the drops of juice made beautiful like a bride dowered by her sire. 3 Pressed in the mortar, ^ese, the drops of juice, the Somas rich in food. Give strength to Indra with their work. 4 Deft-handed men, run hither, seize the brilliant juices blent with meal, And cook \vith milk the gladdening draught. 5 Thufi^ Soma, Conqueror of wealth ! flow, finding furtherance for us, Giver of ample opulence. 6 This Pavam4na, meet to be adorned, the fingers ten adorn. The draught that shall make Indra glad. 4 T^ the pole J the ineaniiig of dhuram here is not clear, and the comparison is not obvious. 'As a horse in ^ing passes tiie shaft (of the chariot).' — Wilson. 'As a horse (presses) through the yoke/ — Grassmann. Ludwig suggests * hedge ' or * barrier ' as the probable meaning of the word in this pUce. 5 In the wood, beyond ihefieece: when he has passed through the woollen strsiner and fallen into tiie wooden trough or vat. Singers : ndv^h : shouts of joy, according to the St. Petersburg Lexicon.

1 The^ kctue been tent forth : atrigran (effusi sunt) is applicable both to the effused Soma-drops and to horses loosed or started for a race. Jotting w mountains : coming from plants grown on hills. ^ Dowered by her tire : meaning, perhaps, possessed of property inherited from her father. 4 Deft-handed : suhastyafi cannot be satisfactorily accounted for. Suhattydy % duaJ^ majr have been the orj^nnl reading. See IiUdy}\^ft QoxciXCkST^'c^^'^^- v., pp. 347, 348. 800 THE HYMNS OP [BOOK It

Great as he was, Soma hath gained strength by this high solemnity : Joyous he riseth like a bull. 2 His task is done : his crushings of the Dasyus are made manifest : He sternly reckoneth their debts. 3 Soon as his song of praise is born, the Soma, Indra's juice, becomes A thousand-winning thunderbolt. 4 Seer and Sustainer, he himself desireth riches for the sage When he embellisheth his songs. 5 Fain would they both win riches as in races of the steeds. In war Thou art upon the conquerors' side.

With sacrifice we seek to thee kind Cherisher of manly might In mansions of the lofty heavens ; 2 Gladdening, crusher of the bold, ruling with very mighty sway, Destroyer of a hundred forts. 3 Hence, Sapient One ! the Falcon, strong of wing, unwearied, brought thee down. Lord over riches, from the sky. 4 That each may see the light, the Bird brought us the guard of Law, the Friend Of all, the speeder through the air. 5 And now, sent forth, it hath attained to mighty power and majesty. Most active, ready to assist. 1 Riseth : or, roareth. Sabdctm Jcaroti. — Sftyarfa. 2 He sternly reckoneth their debts : * resolute he acquits the debts (of the worshi p per). ' — W i Isou . 8 A thousand-tDinning thunde^'bolt : all-powerful to slay the wicked and to reward worshippers. 4 Sustainer : I follow Ludwig in taking vidhartdri as a nominative singular. But see Cowell's note in Wilson's Translation. 5 They both : Soma and the sage or singer. — Ludwig. S4yana interprets the stanza dififerently : — * Thou desirest to give wealth to those who conquer • in combat as (men offer fodder) to horses in battle.' — Wilson.

1 Kind Cherisher of manly might : * auspicious bearing wealth.* — Wilson. 2 Hundred forts : cf. IV. 26. 3. 3 The Falcon : see IV. 26 and 27. ^ 4 The Friend of all : or, the commoxi poBae«a\oxi. TKt %^^c(£cr thnmgh tie air,' rajcut^ram: ' the showerex oi watex.*— "^VJissou*

PoiJB down the rain upon us, pour a wave of waters from the sky, And plenteous store of wholesome food. 2 Flow onward with that stream of thine, whereby the cows have come to us. The kine of strangers to our home. 3 Chief Friend of Gods in sacred rites, pour on us fatness with thy stream, Pour down on us a flood of rain. 4 To give us vigour, with thy stream run through the fleecy straining- cloth : For verily the Gods will hear. 5 Onward hath Pavamana flowed and beaten off the Rakshasas, Flashing out splendour as of old.

Loud as a river's roaring wave thy powers have lifted up themselves : Urge on thine arrow's sharpened point. 2 At thine effusion upward rise three voices full of joy, when thou Flowest upon the fleecy ridge. 3 On to the fleece they urge with stones the tawny well-beloved One, Even Pavamslna, dropping meath. 4 Flow with thy current to the sieve, 0 Sage most powerful to cheer, To seat thee in the place of song. 5 Flow, Most Exhilarating ! flow anointed with the milk for balm, Indu, fo^ Tndra, for bis drink. 4 The Oods will hear: the sound that thou makest in flowing. — S&yana. 5 Flashing out splendour as of old : or, * Making lights shine as erst they shone.* 1 Urge on thine arrow* s sharpened point : vdndsya chodayd pavim : apparently a bold metaphorical expression for ' make a noise like thnt of a discharged arrow.* *Emit thy sound like that of a (rushiDg) arrow.* — Wilson. Or vdndsya may mean of (thy) reed, pipe, flute, or other musical instrument, and S4yana explains paviw by ffiftrfam. Benfey accordingly (Sftmaveda, II. 5. 1. 6. 1.)* renders the passage : *Erhebe deiner Flote Schall,' * Lift up the music of thy flute.' According to Hillebrandt, V. Jf., I. p. 48, the reed or arrow means the sharp-pointed stalk of the Soma-plaut.

2 Three voices full of joy : or, three several joyful words. See IX. 33. 4. The fleecy ridge : * the summit of the fleece.* — WUboh. 4 In iAe place of song : see IX. 25. 6. * On lndr«fcft\«>.^'— "^'^^JMOTl, H^YMN III* Soma Pavamftna. Ap^yABTU» en th^ M%»r pour %h» Sonaa jiuica expre^^i^ with stones, And make it pure for Ind?g,*s drink. 2 Paur out f^r Indra, Thtuad^r-armed, the^ mUk, ctf beayen, tli^ Soma's juice, Most excellent, most rich in sweets. 3 These Gods and all thje Marut host,. lodu ! enjoj this juice of thine, This PavamUna's flowing meath^ 4 For, Soma, thou hast, been effused, streogthening for tikie wild carouse, 0 Steer, the singer, for our help. 5 Flow withr thj stream. Far-sighted One, e£[\ised, into the olecinfl- ing sieve : Flow on to. give us strength and fame.

Wealth- WINNER, dwelling in, the sky, bringing us vigour with the juice, Flow to tlve fitter when effused. 2 So, in thine anqient ways, may he, beloved, with a, thousand streams Run o'er the fleecy straining-cloth. 3 Him wh.o is like a CH^ld^on shake : 0 Tndu, shake thy gift to us Shake it, armed Warrior ! with thine arms. 4 Indu, invoked with many a prayer, bring down the vigoiir of these men. Of him who threatens us with war, 5 Indu, Wealth giver, with thine help pour out few uj a bujQbdX'ed, yea, A thousand of thy pure bright streams. 4 For the wild cearouse: 'for ^[)eedy exhilaration.' — Wilson* 2 May he : the juice, regarded as distinct from Soma who is addressed. 3 J7m» whfi is like a caldron : beat or bruise the Soma that is full of juicfl( as a caldron is of water. With thine arms : or, with the blows (of the pressingstones). The meaning of the second and third 'shake' seems to be 'send, rapidly.' * (Soma), send (us) him who is like a pot ; Indu, send us now wealth ; swift-iowing (Soma), send it with blows (of the stones).' — Wilson. Pn^esj^or OrasBm&nn sayB that by ' him who is lik^ Ob Qaldron' the wealtl^y en^mj is

intended, wbooe possessionB are to be ^^nx^ ou\* m;^!!. \X>ft '^\o>i^v«QT«bV^'i^^(}Q|rs. HYMN HU. Sam* Pivvamftw^. O THOU with stones for arms, thj powers, crushing the fiends, have raised themselves ^ Cha§e thou the foes who compass us. 2 Thou conqnerest thus with might when car meets car, and when the prize is staked : With fearless heart will I sing praise. 3 No one with evil thought assails this Payamdua's' holy laws : Crush him who fain would fight with thee. 4 For ludra to the streams they drive the tawny rapture-drop- ping Steed, Indu the bringer of delight.