Hinduism Index
Book 20 Index
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Hymns of the Atharva Veda, by Ralph T.H. Griffith, [1895], at
1Indra, the mortal man well guarded by thine aid goes foremost
in the wealth of horses and of kine.
With amplest wealth thou fillest him, as round about the waters
clearly seen afar fill Sindhu full.
2The heavenly waters come not nigh the priestly bowl: they but
look down and see how far mid-air is spread:
The Deities conduct the pious man to them: like suitors they
delight in him who loveth prayer.
3Praiseworthy blessing hast thou laid upon the pair who with
uplifted ladle serve thee, man and wife.
Unchecked he dwells and prospers in thy law: thy power brings
blessing to the sacrificer pouring gifts.
4First the Angirases won themselves vital power, whose fires were
kindled through good deeds and sacrifice.
The men together found the Pani's hoarded wealth, the cattle,
and the wealth in horses and in kine,
5Atharvan first by sacrifices laid the path; then, guardian of the
Law, sprang up the loving Sun.
Usanā Kāvya drove the kine hither with him: let us with offer-
ings honour Yama's deathless birth.
6When sacred grass is trimmed to aid the auspicious work, or
the hymn makes its voice of praise sound to the sky,
Where the stone rings as 'twere a singer skilled in laud,—Indra
in truth delights when these come near to him.
7To make thee start, a strong true draught I offer to thee the
Bull, O thou whom bay steeds carry.
Here take delight. O Indra, in our voices while thou art hymned
with power and all our spirit.