To the Maruts¹

Come hither, Maruts, on your chariots charged with lightning, resounding with beautiful songs, stored with spears, and winged with horses! Fly to us like birds, with your best food, you mighty ones! They come gloriously on their red, or, it may be, on their tawny horses which hasten their chariots. He who holds the axe is brilliant like gold;—with the tire of the chariot they have struck the earth. On your bodies there are daggers for beauty; may they stir up our minds as they stir up the forests. For yourselves, O well-born Maruts, the vigorous among you shake the stone for distilling Soma. Days went round you and came back, O hawks, back to this prayer, and to this sacred rite; the Gotamas making prayer with songs, pushed up the lid of the cloud to drink. No such hymn was ever known as this which Gotama sounded for you, O Maruts, when he saw you on golden wheels, wild boars rushing about with iron tusks. This comforting speech rushes sounding towards you, like the speech of a suppliant: it rushed freely from our hands as our speeches are wont to do.

Come here, Maruts, on your chariots charged with lightning, ringing with beautiful songs, stocked with spears, and winged with horses! Fly to us like birds, bringing your best food, you mighty ones! They come in glory on their red horses, or perhaps their tawny horses, which speed their chariots along. The one holding the axe shines like gold. With the rim of the chariot wheel, they have struck the earth. You wear daggers on your bodies as ornaments. May they stir our minds as they stir the forests. For yourselves, well-born Maruts, the strong among you shake the stone used to press Soma. Days passed around you and returned, you hawks, back to this prayer and this sacred rite. The Gotamas, praying with songs, pushed up the cloud’s lid to drink. No hymn like this was ever known, the hymn Gotama sang for you, Maruts, when he saw you. You rode on golden wheels, like wild boars rushing about with iron tusks. These comforting words rush toward you with a resounding voice, like the words of someone pleading. They rushed freely from our hands, as our words usually do.

Let us now proclaim for the robust host, for the herald of the powerful Indra, their ancient greatness! O ye strong-voiced Maruts, you heroes, prove your powers on your march, as with a torch, as with a sword! Like parents bringing a dainty to their own son, the wild Maruts play playfully at the sacrifices. The Rudras reach the worshipper with their protection, strong in themselves, they do not fail the sacrificer. For him to whom the immortal guardians have given fulness of wealth, and who is himself a giver of oblations, the Maruts, who gladden men with the milk of rain, pour out, like friends, many clouds. You who have stirred up the clouds with might, your horses rushed forth, self-guided. All beings who dwell in houses are afraid of you, your march is brilliant with your spears thrust forth. When they whose march is terrible have caused the rocks to tremble, or when the manly Maruts have shaken the back of heaven, then every lord of the forest fears at your racing, each shrub flies out of your way, whirling like chariot-wheels.

Let us now proclaim the ancient greatness of the mighty host, the herald of powerful Indra! Maruts, you loud-voiced heroes, show your power as you march, as with a torch, as with a sword! Like parents bringing a treat to their own son, the wild Maruts play joyfully at the sacrifices. The Rudras come to the worshipper with their protection. Strong in themselves, the Rudras never fail the person offering sacrifices. The immortal guardians have granted abundant wealth to a man who also gives offerings. For that man, the Maruts pour out many clouds like friends, delighting people with the milk of rain. You have stirred up the clouds with your might, and your horses have rushed forward, guiding themselves. All beings living in houses fear you. Your march is brilliant, with your spears thrust forward. When the Maruts, whose march is terrifying, make the rocks tremble, every lord of the forest fears your racing. The same fear comes when the manly Maruts shake the back of heaven. Then every shrub flies out of your way, whirling like chariot wheels.

You, O terrible Maruts, whose ranks are never broken, favorably fulfil our prayer! Wherever your glory-toothed lightning bites, it crunches cattle, like a well-aimed bolt. The Maruts whose gifts are firm, whose bounties are never ceasing, who do not revile, and who are highly praised at the sacrifices, they sing their song for to drink the sweet juice: they know the first manly deeds of the hero Indra. The man whom you have guarded, O Maruts, shield him with hundredfold strongholds from injury and mischief—the man whom you, O fearful, powerful singers, protect from reproach in the prosperity of his children. On your chariots, O Maruts, there are all good things, strong weapons are piled up clashing against each other. When you are on your journeys, you carry the rings on your shoulders, and your axle turns the two wheels at once. In their manly arms there are many good things, on their chests golden chains, flaring ornaments, on their shoulders speckled deer-skins, on their fellies sharp edges; as birds spread their wings, they spread out splendors behind.

Fearsome Maruts, your ranks never break. Look kindly on our prayer and grant it! Wherever your lightning bites with its glorious teeth, it crushes cattle like a well-aimed bolt. The Maruts give lasting gifts, and their generosity never ends. They insult no one and receive high praise at sacrifices. They sing their song to drink the sweet juice. They know the first mighty deeds of the hero Indra. Maruts, shield the man you have guarded from harm and mischief with a hundred strongholds. You are fearsome, powerful singers. Protect that man from reproach as his children prosper. Your chariots, Maruts, carry all good things. Powerful weapons lie piled there, clashing against one another. On your journeys, you carry rings on your shoulders, and your axle turns both wheels at once. The Maruts hold many good things in their strong arms. Golden chains and blazing ornaments adorn their chests. They wear spotted deer skins on their shoulders, and their wheel rims have sharp edges. As birds spread their wings, the Maruts spread their splendor behind them.

They, mighty by might, all-powerful powers, visible from afar like the heavens with the stars, sweet-toned, soft-tongued singers with their mouths, the Maruts, united with Indra, shout all around. This is your greatness, O well-born Maruts!—your bounty extends far, as the sway of Aditi. Not even Indra in his scorn can injure that bounty, on whatever man you have bestowed it for his good deeds. This is your kinship with us, O Maruts, that you, immortals, in former years have often protected the singer. Having through this prayer granted a hearing to man, all these heroes together have become well known by their valiant deeds. That we may long flourish, O Maruts, with your wealth, O ye racers, that our men may spread in the camp, therefore let me achieve the rite with these offerings. May this praise, O Maruts, this song of Mândârya, the son of Mâna, the poet, ask you with food for offspring for ourselves! May we have an invigorating autumn, with quickening rain!

The Maruts are mighty in their strength, all-powerful forces, visible from afar like the heavens filled with stars. They sing with sweet voices and gentle tongues. United with Indra, they shout all around. This is your greatness, O well-born Maruts! Your generosity reaches far, like the rule of Aditi. Not even Indra, in his scorn, can harm that generosity toward anyone you have rewarded for good deeds. This is your bond with us, O Maruts: you immortals have often protected the singer in years past. Through this prayer, you have given a hearing to humankind. Together, all these heroes have become well known for their brave deeds. May we flourish long with your wealth, O Maruts, you swift racers. May our men spread throughout the camp. To these ends, let me perform the rite with these offerings. May this praise, this song by the poet Mândârya, son of Mâna, ask you, O Maruts, for food and offspring for us! May we have an invigorating autumn, with life-giving rain!

For the manly host, the joyful, the wise, for the Maruts bring thou, O Nodhas, a pure offering. I prepare songs, like as a handy priest, wise in his mind, prepares the water, mighty at sacrifices. They are born, the tall bulls of heaven, the manly youths of Rudra, the divine, the blameless, pure, and bright like suns; scattering raindrops, full of terrible designs, like giants. The youthful Rudras, they who never grow old, the slayers of the demon, have grown irresistible like mountains. They throw down with their strength all beings, even the strongest, on earth and in heaven. They deck themselves with glittering ornaments for a marvellous show; on their chests they fastened gold chains for beauty; the spears on their shoulders pound to pieces; they were born together by themselves, the men of Dyu. They who confer power, the roarers, the devourers of foes, they made winds and lightnings by their powers. The shakers milk the heavenly udders, they sprinkle the earth all round with milk.

Nodhas, bring a pure offering for the Maruts, the manly host, joyful and wise. I prepare songs as a skilled priest, wise in mind and mighty in sacrifice, prepares the water. The Maruts are born, the tall bulls of heaven, the manly youths of Rudra. They are divine, blameless, pure, and bright as suns. They scatter raindrops and, like giants, are full of terrifying plans. The youthful Rudras, who never grow old and who slay the demon, have become as irresistible as mountains. With their strength, they bring down all beings on earth and in heaven, even the strongest. The Maruts adorn themselves with glittering ornaments for a marvelous display. They fastened gold chains across their chests for beauty. The spears on their shoulders smash things to pieces. They were born together, by themselves, the men of Dyu. The Maruts give power, roar, and devour their foes. Through their powers, they made winds and lightning. These shakers milk the heavenly udders and sprinkle the earth all around with milk.

The bounteous Maruts pour forth water, mighty at sacrifices, the fat milk of the clouds. They seem to lead about the powerful horse, the cloud, to make it rain; they milk the thundering, unceasing spring. Mighty they are, powerful, of beautiful splendor, strong in themselves like mountains, yet swiftly gliding along;—you chew up forests, like wild elephants, when you have assumed your powers among the red flames. Like lions they roar, the wise Maruts, they are handsome like gazelles, the all-knowing. By night with their spotted rain-clouds and with their spears—lightnings—they rouse the companions together, they whose ire through strength is like the ire of serpents. You who march in companies, the friends of man, heroes, whose ire through strength is like the ire of serpents, salute heaven and earth! On the seats on your chariots, O Maruts, the lightning stands, visible like light. All-knowing, surrounded with wealth, endowed with powers, singers, men of endless prowess, armed with strong rings, they, the archers, have taken the arrow in their fists.

The generous Maruts, mighty at sacrifices, pour out water, the rich milk of the clouds. They seem to lead the powerful horse, the cloud, around to make it rain. They milk the thundering spring that never stops flowing. They are mighty and powerful, shining beautifully, strong in themselves like mountains, yet moving swiftly along. You chew up forests like wild elephants when you take on your powers among the red flames. The wise Maruts roar like lions. They are graceful like gazelles and know all things. At night, with their spotted rain clouds and their spears of lightning, they stir their companions into action. Their strength makes their anger like the anger of serpents. You who march in groups, friends of humanity, heroes whose strength makes your anger like that of serpents, greet heaven and earth! On the seats of your chariots, Maruts, lightning stands, visible like light. The Maruts know all things, are surrounded by wealth, and are gifted with powers. They are singers, men of boundless strength, armed with strong rings. These archers have taken the arrow in their fists.

The Maruts who with the golden tires of their wheels increase the rain, stir up the clouds like wanderers on the road. They are brisk, indefatigable, they move by themselves; they throw down what is firm, the Maruts with their brilliant spears make everything to reel. We invoke with prayer the offspring of Rudra, the brisk, the pure, the worshipful, the active. Cling for happiness-sake to the strong company of the Maruts, the chasers of the sky, the powerful, the impetuous. The mortal whom ye, Maruts, protected, he indeed surpasses people in strength through your protection. He carries off booty with his horses, treasures with his men; he acquires honorable wisdom, and he prospers. Give, O Maruts, to our lords strength glorious, invincible in battle, brilliant, wealth-acquiring, praiseworthy, known to all men. Let us foster our kith and kin during a hundred winters. Will you then, O Maruts, grant unto us wealth, durable, rich in men, defying all onslaughts?—wealth a hundred and a thousand-fold, always increasing?—May he who is rich in prayers come early and soon!

The Maruts increase the rain with the golden rims of their wheels. They stir up the clouds like travelers on the road. They are swift and tireless, and they move by their own power. They bring down what stands firm. With their shining spears, the Maruts make everything shake. We call in prayer on the children of Rudra, the swift, the pure, the worthy of worship, the active. For happiness, hold fast to the strong company of the Maruts, the sky-chasers, the powerful, the impetuous. The mortal you have protected, Maruts, truly surpasses others in strength because of your protection. He carries off plunder with his horses and treasures with his men. He gains honorable wisdom and prospers. Maruts, give our lords glorious strength, invincible in battle, brilliant, able to win wealth, praiseworthy, and known to everyone. Let us care for our families and relatives for a hundred winters. Will you then, Maruts, grant us lasting wealth, rich in men and able to withstand every attack? Will you grant wealth a hundred and a thousand times greater, always increasing? May he who is rich in prayers come early and soon!

Sing forth, O Kanvas, to the sportive host of your Maruts, brilliant on their chariots, and unscathed,—they who were born together, self-luminous, with the spotted deer, the spears, the daggers, the glittering ornaments. I hear their whips, almost close by, when they crack them in their hands; they gain splendor on their way. Sing forth the god-given prayer to the wild host of your Maruts, endowed with terrible vigor and strength. Celebrate the bull among the cows, for it is the sportive host of the Maruts; he grew as he tasted the rain. Who, O ye men, is the strongest among you here, ye shakers of heaven and earth, when you shake them like the hem of a garment? At your approach the son of man holds himself down; the gnarled cloud fled at your fierce anger. They at whose racings the earth, like a hoary king, trembles for fear on their ways, their birth is strong indeed: there is strength to come forth from their mother, nay, there is vigor twice enough for it. And these sons, the singers, stretched out the fences in their racings; the cows had to walk knee-deep. They cause this long and broad unceasing rain to fall on their ways. O Maruts, with such strength as yours, you have caused men to tremble, you have caused the mountains to tremble. As the Maruts pass along, they talk together on the way: does anyone hear them? Come fast on your quick steeds! there are worshippers for you among the Kanvas: may you well rejoice among them. Truly there is enough for your rejoicing. We always are their servants, that we may live even the whole of life.

Sing out, Kanvas, to your playful band of Maruts, shining on their chariots and unharmed. They were born together, shining with their own light, with spotted deer, spears, daggers, and glittering ornaments. I hear their whips almost nearby as they crack them in their hands. Their splendor grows as they travel. Sing the god-given prayer to your wild band of Maruts, filled with fearsome energy and strength. Praise the bull among the cows, for he is the playful band of Maruts. He grew as he tasted the rain. Who among you men here is strongest, you who shake heaven and earth like the hem of a garment? As you approach, the son of man crouches low. The gnarled cloud fled before your fierce anger. As the Maruts race along their paths, the earth trembles in fear like an aged king. Their birth is powerful indeed. They have the strength to emerge from their mother, indeed, twice the vigor needed. And these sons, the singers, stretched out the fences as they raced. The cows had to walk knee-deep. Along their paths, the Maruts make this rain fall far and wide without stopping. Maruts, with such strength as yours, you have made people tremble. You have made the mountains tremble. As the Maruts pass, they talk together along the way. Does anyone hear them? Come quickly on your swift steeds! There are worshippers for you among the Kanvas. May you find joy among them. Truly, there is enough for you to rejoice in. We are always the Maruts’ servants, so that we may live out our whole lives.

To every sacrifice you hasten together, you accept prayer after prayer, O quick Maruts! Let me therefore bring you hither by my prayers from heaven and earth, for our welfare, and for our great protection; the shakers who were born to bring food and light, self-born and self-supported, like springs, like thousandfold waves of water, aye, visibly like unto excellent bulls, those Maruts, like Soma-drops, which squeezed from ripe stems dwell, when drunk, in the hearts of the worshipper—see how on their shoulders there clings as if a clinging wife; in their hands the quoit is held and the sword. Lightly they have come down from heaven of their own accord: Immortals, stir yourselves with the whip! The mighty Maruts on dustless paths, armed with brilliant spears, have shaken down even the strong places. O ye Maruts, who are armed with lightning-spears, who stirs you from within by himself, as the jaws are stirred by the tongue? You shake the sky, as if on the search for food; you are invoked by many, like the solar horse of the day. Where, O Maruts, is the top, where the bottom of the mighty sky where you came? When you throw down with the thunderbolt what is strong, like brittle things, you fly across the terrible sea! As your conquest is violent, splendid, terrible, full and crushing, so, O Maruts, is your gift delightful, like the largess of a liberal worshipper, wide-spreading, laughing like heavenly lightning. From the tires of their chariot-wheels streams gush forth, when they send out the voice of the clouds; the lightnings smiled upon the earth, when the Maruts shower down fatness. Prisni brought forth for the great fight the terrible train of the untiring Maruts: when fed they produced the dark cloud, and then looked about for invigorating food. May this praise, O Maruts, this song of Mândârya, the son of Mâna, the poet, ask you with food for offspring for ourselves! May we have an invigorating autumn, with quickening rain!

You hurry together to every sacrifice and accept prayer after prayer, O swift Maruts! So let my prayers bring you here from heaven and earth, for our welfare and our strong protection. You are the shakers, born to bring food and light, born from yourselves and sustained by yourselves. You are like springs, like a thousand waves of water, and visibly like splendid bulls. You Maruts are like Soma-drops pressed from ripe stems, which, once drunk, dwell in the worshipper’s heart. See how something clings to your shoulders like a clinging wife. In your hands you hold the quoit and the sword. Lightly, you have come down from heaven of your own accord. Immortals, rouse yourselves with the whip! On dustless paths, the mighty Maruts, armed with shining spears, have shaken down even the strongholds. O Maruts, armed with lightning-spears, who stirs you from within, acting alone, as the tongue stirs the jaws? You shake the sky as if searching for food. Many call upon you, as they call upon the solar horse of the day. Where, O Maruts, is the top, and where the bottom, of the mighty sky where you came? When your thunderbolt knocks down strong things as though they were brittle, you fly across the terrible sea! Your conquest is violent, splendid, terrible, complete, and crushing. Just so, O Maruts, your gift is delightful, like the generosity of a worshipper who gives freely. Your gift spreads far and wide, laughing like heavenly lightning. Streams gush from the rims of your chariot wheels when you release the voice of the clouds. The lightning smiled upon the earth when the Maruts showered down abundance. Prisni gave birth to the terrible host of tireless Maruts for the great battle. When fed, the Maruts produced the dark cloud, then looked around for nourishing food. May this praise, O Maruts, this song by the poet Mândârya, son of Mâna, ask you for food and offspring for us! May we have an autumn that gives us strength, with life-giving rain!

The Maruts charged with rain, endowed with fierce force, terrible like wild beasts, blazing in their strength, brilliant like fires, and impetuous, have uncovered the rain-giving cows by blowing away the cloud. The Maruts with their rings appeared like the heavens with their stars, they shone wide like streams from clouds as soon as Rudra, the strong man, was born for you, O golden-breasted Maruts, in the bright lap of Prisni. They wash their horses like racers in the courses, they hasten with the points of the reed on their quick steeds. O golden-jawed Maruts, violently shaking your jaws, you go quick with your spotted deer, being friends of one mind. Those Maruts have grown to feed all these beings, or, it may be, they have come hither for the sake of a friend, they who always bring quickening rain. They have spotted horses, their bounties cannot be taken away, they are like headlong charioteers on their ways. O Maruts, wielding your brilliant spears, come hither on smooth roads with your fiery cows whose udders are swelling; being of one mind, like swans toward their nests, to enjoy the sweet offering.

The Maruts are laden with rain and filled with fierce power, fearsome as wild beasts. They blaze with strength, shine like fires, and rush forward. They have blown away the cloud, revealing the cows that bring rain. With their rings, the Maruts appeared like the heavens with their stars. They shone far and wide like streams pouring from clouds. This happened as soon as Rudra, the strong man, was born for you, golden-breasted Maruts, in Prisni’s bright lap. The Maruts wash their horses like racers on the tracks. They hurry on their swift horses, urging them on with pointed reeds. Golden-jawed Maruts, you shake your jaws violently. You travel swiftly with your spotted deer, as friends united in purpose. These Maruts have grown to nourish all these beings. Or perhaps they have come here for a friend’s sake, always bringing life-giving rain. They have spotted horses, and their gifts cannot be taken away. They are like charioteers racing headlong along their paths. Maruts, carrying your shining spears, come here along smooth roads with your fiery cows, whose udders are swelling. Come united in purpose, like swans returning to their nests, to enjoy the sweet offering.

O one-minded Maruts, come to our prayers, come to our libations like Indra praised by men! Fulfil our prayer, like the udder of a barren cow, and make the prayer glorious by booty to the singer. Grant us this strong horse for our chariot, a draught that rouses our prayers, from day to day, food to the singers, and to the poet in our homesteads luck, wisdom, inviolable and invincible strength. When the gold-breasted Maruts harness the horses to their chariots, bounteous in wealth, then it is as if a cow in the folds poured out to her calf copious food, to every man who has offered libations. Whatever mortal enemy may have placed us among wolves, shield us from hurt, ye Vasus! Turn the wheels with burning heat against him, and strike down the weapon of the impious fiend, O Rudras! Your march, O Maruts, appears brilliant, whether even friends have milked the udder of Prisni, or whether, O sons of Rudra, you mean to blame him who praises you, and to weaken those who are weakening Trita, O unbeguiled heroes.

O Maruts, united in purpose, come to our prayers and our offerings of drink, like Indra, whom people praise! Fulfill our prayer, like the udder of a barren cow. Make the prayer glorious by giving the singer spoils. Grant us this strong horse for our chariot, and a drink that stirs our prayers day after day. Give food to the singers. Give the poet in our homes good fortune, wisdom, and strength that cannot be harmed or overcome. When the gold-breasted Maruts harness their horses to their chariots, they bring abundant wealth. Then it is as if a cow in the pen poured out abundant food for her calf. So it is for every man who has offered drink. Whatever mortal enemy may have placed us among wolves, protect us from harm, you Vasus! Turn your wheels against that enemy with burning heat. Strike down the weapon of the godless fiend, O Rudras! Your march, O Maruts, looks brilliant, whether friends have milked the udder of Prisni, or whether, O sons of Rudra, you intend to blame the man who praises you and weaken those who are weakening Trita, O heroes who cannot be deceived.

We invoke you, the great Maruts, the constant wanderers, at the offering of the rapid Vishnu; holding ladles and prayerful we ask the golden-colored and exalted Maruts for glorious wealth. The Dasagvas carried on the sacrifice first; may they rouse us at the break of dawn. Like the dawn, they uncover the dark nights with the red rays, the strong ones, with their brilliant light, as with a sea of milk. With the morning clouds, as if with glittering red ornaments, these Maruts have grown great in the sacred places. Streaming down with rushing splendor, they have assumed their bright and brilliant color. Approaching them for their great protection to help us, we invoke them with this worship, they whom Trita may bring near, like the five Hotri priests for victory, descending on their chariot to help. May that grace of yours by which you help the wretched across all anguish, and by which you deliver the worshipper from the reviler, come hither, O Maruts; may your favor approach us like a cow going to her calf!

We call on you, great Maruts, the constant wanderers, at the offering of swift Vishnu. Holding ladles and praying, we ask you, golden-colored and exalted Maruts, for glorious wealth. The Dasagvas were the first to perform the sacrifice. May they wake us at dawn. Like the dawn, the strong ones reveal the dark nights with red rays. Their brilliant light spreads like a sea of milk. With the morning clouds, as if adorned with glittering red ornaments, these Maruts have grown great in the sacred places. Streaming down with rushing splendor, they have taken on their bright, brilliant color. We approach the Maruts for their great protection and help, calling on them with this worship. May Trita bring them near, like the five Hotri priests seeking victory, descending on their chariot to help. O Maruts, may your grace come here, the grace by which you help the wretched through all anguish. By that same grace, you rescue the worshipper from those who insult them. May your favor come to us like a cow going to her calf!

I come to you with this adoration, with a hymn I implore the favor of the quick Maruts. O Maruts, you have rejoiced in it clearly, put down then all anger and unharness your horses! This reverent praise of yours, O Maruts, fashioned in the heart, has been offered by the mind, O gods! Come to it, pleased in your mind, for you give increase to our worship. May the Maruts when they have been praised be gracious to us, and likewise Indra, the best giver of happiness, when he has been praised. May our lances through our valor stand always erect, O Maruts! I am afraid of this powerful one, and trembling in fear of Indra. For you the offerings were prepared—we have now put them away, forgive us! Thou through whom the Mânas see the mornings, whenever the eternal dawns flash forth with power, O Indra, O strong hero, grant thou glory to us with the Maruts, terrible with the terrible ones, strong and a giver of victory. O Indra, protect thou these bravest of men, let thy anger be turned away from the Maruts, for thou hast become victorious together with those brilliant heroes. May we have an invigorating autumn, with quickening rain!

I come to you in worship. With a hymn, I ask for the favor of the swift Maruts. O Maruts, you have clearly rejoiced in this hymn. So set aside all anger and unharness your horses! O Maruts, this reverent praise of you was shaped in the heart and offered by the mind, O gods! Come to this praise with glad hearts, for you help our worship grow. May the Maruts be gracious to us when praised. May Indra, the greatest giver of happiness, also be gracious when praised. O Maruts, may our courage keep our lances always raised! I am afraid of this powerful one, and I tremble in fear of Indra. The offerings were prepared for you. We have now put them away. Forgive us! O Indra, through you the Mânas see the mornings whenever the eternal dawns shine forth with power. O strong hero, grant us glory with the Maruts. You are fearsome among the fearsome, strong and a giver of victory. O Indra, protect these bravest of men. Turn your anger away from the Maruts, for you have won victory together with those brilliant heroes. May we have an autumn that renews our strength, with life-giving rain!

O Maruts, that man in whose dwelling you drink the Soma, ye mighty sons of heaven, he indeed has the best guardians. You who are propitiated either by sacrifices or from the prayers of the sage, hear the call, O Maruts! Aye, the powerful man to whom you have granted a sage, he will live in a stable rich in cattle. On the altar of this strong man Soma is poured out in daily sacrifices; praise and joy are sung. To him let the mighty Maruts listen, to him who surpasses all men, as the flowing rain-clouds pass over the sun. For we, O Maruts, have sacrificed at many harvests, through the mercies of the storm-gods. May that mortal be blessed, O chasing Maruts, whose offerings you carry off. You take notice either of the sweat of him who praises you, ye men of true strength, or of the desire of the suppliant. O ye of true strength, make this manifest with might! strike the fiend with your lightning! Hide the hideous darkness, destroy every tusky fiend. Make the light which we long for!

O Maruts, mighty sons of heaven, the man in whose home you drink Soma truly has the best guardians. Whether pleased by sacrifices or by a sage’s prayers, hear the call, O Maruts! Yes, the powerful man to whom you have given a sage will live in a stable rich in cattle. Soma is poured out on this strong man’s altar in daily sacrifices. Songs of praise and joy are sung. Let the mighty Maruts listen to this man, who surpasses all men as flowing rain clouds pass over the sun. For we, O Maruts, have offered sacrifices through many harvests, thanks to the storm-gods’ mercy. May the mortal whose offerings you carry off be blessed, O pursuing Maruts. You notice either the sweat of the man who praises you or the desire of the one seeking your help. You are beings of true strength. O you of true strength, make this clear through your power! Strike the fiend with your lightning! Hide the hideous darkness. Destroy every tusked fiend. Bring the light we long for!

Endowed with exceeding vigor and power, the singers, the never flinching, the immovable, the impetuous, the most beloved and most manly, have decked themselves with their glittering ornaments, a few only, like the heavens with the stars. When you have seen your way through the clefts, like birds, O Maruts, on whatever road it be, then the clouds on your chariots trickle everywhere, and you pour out the honey-like fatness for him who praises you. At their racings the earth shakes, as if broken, when on the heavenly paths they harness their deer for victory. They the sportive, the roaring, with bright spears, the shakers of the clouds have themselves glorified their greatness. That youthful company, with their spotted horses, moves by itself; hence it exercises lordship, invested with powers. Thou indeed art true, thou searchest out sin, thou art without blemish. Therefore the manly host will help this prayer. We speak after the kind of our old father, our tongue goes forth at the sight of the Soma: when the singers had joined Indra in deed, then only they took their holy names;—these Maruts, armed with beautiful rings, obtained splendors for their glory, they obtained rays, and men to celebrate them; nay, armed with daggers, speeding along, and fearless, they found the beloved domain of the Maruts.

The singers are filled with extraordinary vigor and power. They never flinch and cannot be moved. They are swift, the most beloved, and the most manly. They have adorned themselves with just a few glittering ornaments, like the stars adorning the heavens. O Maruts, when you have found your way through the clefts like birds, whatever road you take, your chariot-clouds drip everywhere. Then you pour out honey-like richness for whoever praises you. As they race, the earth shakes as if breaking apart. This happens when they harness their deer for victory on the heavenly paths. Playful and roaring, with bright spears, these shakers of the clouds have proclaimed their own greatness. That youthful company, with their spotted horses, moves by itself. Thus, endowed with powers, the company rules. You are indeed true. You seek out sin and are without blemish. Therefore, the manly host will support this prayer. We speak as our ancient father did. Our tongues speak out at the sight of the Soma. Only when the singers had joined Indra in action did they take their holy names. These Maruts, armed with beautiful rings, gained splendors for their glory. They gained rays of light and men to celebrate them. Indeed, armed with daggers, swift and fearless, they found the beloved domain of the Maruts.

What then now? When will you take us as a dear father takes his son by both hands, O ye gods, for whom the sacred grass has been trimmed? Where now? On what errand of yours are you going, in heaven, not on earth? Where are your cows sporting? Where are your newest favors, O Maruts? Where the blessings? Where all delights? If you, sons of Prisni, were mortals, and your praiser an immortal, then never should your praiser be unwelcome, like a deer in pasture grass, nor should he go on the path of Yama. Let not one sin after another, difficult to be conquered, overcome us; may it depart together with greed. Truly they are terrible and powerful; even to the desert the Rudriyas bring rain that is never dried up. The lightning lows like a cow, it follows as a mother follows after her young, when the shower of the Maruts has been let loose. Even by day the Maruts create darkness with the water-bearing cloud, when they drench the earth. Then from the shouting of the Maruts over the whole space of the earth, men reeled forward. Maruts on your strong-hoofed, never-wearying steeds go after those bright ones, which are still locked up. May your fellies be strong, the chariots, and their horses, may your reins be well-fashioned. Speak forth forever with thy voice to praise the Lord of prayer, Agni, who is like a friend, the bright one. Fashion a hymn in thy mouth! Expand like the cloud! Sing a song of praise. Worship the host of the Maruts, the terrible, the glorious, the musical. May they be magnified here among us.

What now? When will you take us by both hands, as a loving father takes his son, O gods? The sacred grass has been trimmed for you. Where are you now? What errand are you on, in heaven and not on earth? Where are your cows playing? Where are your newest favors, O Maruts? Where are the blessings? Where are all the delights? If you, sons of Prisni, were mortals, and your praiser were immortal, your praiser would never be unwelcome. He would be like a deer in pasture grass, nor would he travel the path of Yama. Do not let one sin after another, hard to overcome, overwhelm us. May sin depart, along with greed. Truly, the Rudriyas are terrifying and powerful. Even to the desert they bring rain that never dries up. The lightning lows like a cow. It follows like a mother following her young when the Maruts unleash their shower. Even by day, the Maruts create darkness with their rain-bearing cloud as they drench the earth. Then, at the Maruts' shouting across the whole earth, people staggered forward. Maruts, ride your strong-hoofed, tireless steeds after those bright ones that are still locked away. May your wheel rims, chariots, and horses be strong. May your reins be well made. Always raise your voice to praise Agni, the Lord of prayer, who is bright and like a friend. Shape a hymn in your mouth! Spread out like the cloud! Sing a song of praise. Worship the host of the Maruts, terrifying, glorious, and musical. May they be exalted here among us.

Let your voice-born prayers go forth to the great Vishnu, accompanied by the Maruts, Evayâmarut, and to the chasing host, adorned with good rings, the strong, in their jubilant throng, to the shouting power of the Maruts. O Maruts, you who are born great, and proclaim it yourselves by knowledge, Evayâmarut, that power of yours cannot be approached by wisdom, that power of theirs cannot be approached by gift or might; they are like unapproachable mountains. They who are heard with their voice from the high heaven, the brilliant and strong, Evayâmarut, in whose council no tyrant reigns, the rushing chariots of these roaring Maruts come forth, like fires with their own lightning. The wide-striding Vishnu strode forth from the great common seat, Evayâmarut. When he has started by himself from his own place along the ridges, O ye striving, mighty Maruts, he goes together with the heroes, conferring blessings. Impetuous, like your own shout, the strong one made everything tremble, the terrible, the wanderer, the mighty, Evayâmarut; strong with him you advanced self-luminous, with firm reins, golden colored, well armed, speeding along. Your greatness is infinite, ye Maruts, endowed with full power, may that terrible power help, Evayâmarut. In your raid you are indeed to be seen as charioteers; deliver us therefore from the enemy, like shining fires. May then these Rudras, lively like fires and with vigorous shine, help, Evayâmarut. The seat of the earth is stretched out far and wide, when the hosts of these faultless Maruts come quickly to the races. Come kindly on your path, O Maruts, listen to the call of him who praises you, Evayâmarut. Confidants of the great Vishnu, may you together, like charioteers, keep all hateful things far, by your wonderful skill. Come zealously to our sacrifice, ye worshipful, hear our guileless call, Evayâmarut. Like the oldest mountains in the sky, O wise guardians, prove yourselves for him irresistible to the enemy.

Let your spoken prayers go out to the great Vishnu, accompanied by the Maruts, Evayâmarut. Let them also reach the pursuing host, adorned with fine rings, strong and gathered in joyful crowds. Let them reach the roaring power of the Maruts. O Maruts, you were born great and proclaim your greatness yourselves through knowledge, Evayâmarut. Your power cannot be reached through wisdom. Their power cannot be reached through gifts or strength. They are like mountains that cannot be approached. Their voices are heard from high heaven, brilliant and strong, Evayâmarut. No tyrant rules in their council. The rushing chariots of these roaring Maruts come forth like fires, with lightning of their own. Vishnu, whose strides are wide, stepped forth from the great shared dwelling, Evayâmarut. He sets out alone from his own place along the ridges, O striving, mighty Maruts. Once he has set out, he travels with the heroes, granting blessings. The strong one made everything tremble, as impetuous as your own shout. He is terrible, wandering, and mighty, Evayâmarut. Strong beside him, you advanced, shining with your own light. With firm reins, golden in color and well armed, you sped along. Your greatness is infinite, O Maruts, and you possess full power. May that terrible power help us, Evayâmarut. In your raid, you can indeed be seen as charioteers. So rescue us from the enemy, like shining fires. May these Rudras then help us, lively as fires and shining brightly, Evayâmarut. The earth’s foundation stretches far and wide when the hosts of these faultless Maruts hurry to the races. Come kindly along your path, O Maruts. Listen to the call of the one who praises you, Evayâmarut. As the great Vishnu’s trusted companions, may you act together like charioteers. Through your wonderful skill, may you keep all hateful things far away. Come eagerly to our sacrifice, you who deserve worship. Hear our sincere call, Evayâmarut. Like the oldest mountains in the sky, O wise guardians, prove yourselves impossible for his enemy to resist.

O Syâvâsva, sing boldly with the Maruts, the singers who, worthy themselves of sacrifice, rejoice in their guileless glory according to their nature. They are indeed boldly the friends of strong power; they on their march protect all who by themselves are full of daring. Like rushing bulls, these Maruts spring over the dark cows, and then we perceive the might of the Maruts in heaven and on earth. Let us boldly offer praise and sacrifice to your Maruts, to all them who protect the generation of men, who protect the mortal from injury. They who are worthy, bounteous, men of perfect strength, to those heavenly Maruts who are worthy of sacrifice, praise the sacrifice! The tall men, coming near with their bright chains, and their weapon, have hurled forth their spears. Behind these Maruts there came by itself the splendor of heaven, like laughing lightnings. Those who have grown up on earth, or in the wide sky, or in the realm of the rivers, or in the abode of the great heaven, praise that host of the Maruts, endowed with true strength and boldness, whether those rushing heroes have by themselves harnessed their horses for triumph, or whether these brilliant Maruts have in the speckled cloud clothed themselves in wool, or whether by their strength they cut the mountain asunder with the tire of their chariot; call them comers, or goers, or enterers, or followers, under all these names, they watch on the straw for my sacrifice.

O Syâvâsva, sing boldly with the Maruts. These singers are themselves worthy of sacrifice and, true to their nature, rejoice in their innocent glory. They are indeed bold friends of mighty power. On their march, the Maruts protect all who are daring in their own right. Like charging bulls, these Maruts leap over the dark cows. Then we see the might of the Maruts in heaven and on earth. Let us boldly offer praise and sacrifice to your Maruts. All these Maruts protect the human race and guard mortals from harm. Praise the sacrifice offered to these worthy, generous men of perfect strength, these heavenly Maruts worthy of sacrifice! The tall men have come near with their bright chains and their weapon, and have hurled their spears. Behind these Maruts, the splendor of heaven appeared on its own, like laughing lightning. All who have grown up on earth, in the wide sky, among the rivers, or in the great heaven's dwelling, praise this host of Maruts. The Maruts possess true strength and boldness. Praise them whether these charging heroes have harnessed their horses themselves for victory. Praise them whether these brilliant Maruts have clothed themselves in wool within the speckled cloud. Or praise them whether, through their strength, they split the mountain with the rim of their chariot wheel. Call them those who come, those who go, those who enter, or those who follow. Under all these names, the Maruts keep watch on the straw for my sacrifice.

The men watch, and their steeds watch. Then, so brilliant are their forms to be soon, that people say, Look at the strangers! In measured steps and wildly shouting the gleemen have danced towards the cloud. They who appeared one by one like thieves, were helpers to me to see the light. Worship, therefore, O seer, that host of Maruts, and keep and delight them with your voice, they who are themselves wise poets, tall heroes armed with lightning-spears. Approach, O seer, the host of Maruts, as a woman approaches a friend, for a gift; and you, Maruts, bold in your strength, hasten hither, even from heaven, when you have been praised by our hymns. If he, after perceiving them, has approached them as gods with an offering, then may he for a gift remain united with the brilliant Maruts, who by their ornaments are glorious on their march. They, the wise Maruts, the lords, who, when there was inquiry for their kindred, told me of the cow, they told me of Prisni as their mother, and of the strong Rudra as their father. The seven and seven heroes gave me each a hundred. On the Yamunâ I clear off glorious wealth in cows, I clear wealth in horses.

The men keep watch, and so do their horses. Soon their forms will be so brilliant that people say, Look at the strangers! With measured steps and wild shouts, the singers have danced toward the cloud. Those who appeared one by one like thieves helped me see the light. So, seer, worship that host of Maruts. Keep them close and delight them with your voice. The Maruts are themselves wise poets, tall heroes armed with lightning-spears. Seer, approach the host of Maruts for a gift, as a woman approaches a friend. And you, Maruts, bold in your strength, hurry here, even from heaven, when our hymns have praised you. If he has seen the Maruts and approached them as gods with an offering, may he receive a gift. May he remain united with the brilliant Maruts, whose ornaments make them glorious as they march. When asked about their family, the wise Maruts, the lords, told me of the cow. They told me that Prisni was their mother and strong Rudra their father. The seven and seven heroes each gave me a hundred. On the Yamunâ I carry off glorious wealth in cows. I carry off wealth in horses.

Those who glance forth like wives and yoke-fellows, the powerful sons of Rudra on their way, they, the Maruts, have indeed made heaven and earth to grow; they, the strong and wild, delight in the sacrifices. When grown up, they attained to greatness; the Rudras have established their seat in the sky. While singing their song and increasing their vigor, the sons of Prisni have clothed themselves in beauty. When these sons of the cow adorn themselves with glittering ornaments, the brilliant ones put bright weapons on their bodies. They drive away every adversary; fatness streams along their paths;—when you, the powerful, who shine with your spears, shaking even what is unshakable by strength—when you, O Maruts, the manly hosts, had yoked the spotted deer, swift as thought, to your chariots;—when you had yoked the spotted deer before your chariots, hurling thunderbolt in the fight, then the streams of the red-horse rush forth: like a skin with water they water the earth. May the swiftly-gliding, swift-winged horses carry you hither! Come forth with your arms! Sit down on the grass-pile; a wide seat has been made for you. Rejoice, O Maruts, in the sweet food. Strong in themselves, they grew with might; they stepped to the firmament, they made their seat wide. When Vishnu saved the enrapturing Soma, the Maruts sat down like birds on their beloved altar. Like heroes indeed thirsting for fight they rush about; like combatants eager for glory they have striven in battles. All beings are afraid of the Maruts; they are men terrible to behold, like kings. When the clever Tvashtar had turned the well-made, golden, thousand-edged thunderbolt, Indra takes it to perform his manly deeds; he slew Vritra, he forced out the stream of water. By their power they pushed the well aloft, they clove asunder the rock, however strong. Blowing forth their voice the bounteous Maruts performed, while drunk of Soma, their glorious deeds. They pushed the cloud athwart this way, they poured out the spring to the thirsty Gotama. The Maruts with beautiful splendor approach him with help, they in their own ways satisfied the desire of the sage. The shelters which you have for him who praises you, grant them threefold to the man who gives! Extend the same to us, O Maruts! Give us, ye heroes, wealth with valiant offspring!

The powerful sons of Rudra look out like wives and companions in harness as they travel. These Maruts have indeed made heaven and earth grow. Strong and wild, they delight in the sacrifices. When they reached maturity, they became great. The Rudras have made their home in the sky. Singing their song and growing stronger, the sons of Prisni have clothed themselves in beauty. When these sons of the cow adorn themselves with glittering ornaments, the shining ones put bright weapons on their bodies. They drive away every enemy. Abundance flows along their paths. You powerful Maruts shine with your spears and shake even the unshakable with your strength. You manly hosts yoked spotted deer, swift as thought, to your chariots. When you yoked the spotted deer before your chariots, hurling the thunderbolt in battle, the red-horse's streams rushed forth. Like a skin filled with water, they watered the earth. May the swiftly gliding, swift-winged horses carry you here! Come forward with your weapons! Sit down on the piled grass. A wide seat has been prepared for you. Rejoice, Maruts, in the sweet food. Strong in themselves, the Maruts grew in might. They stepped into the heavens and made their seat wide. When Vishnu saved the intoxicating Soma, the Maruts settled like birds on their beloved altar. They rush about like heroes thirsting for battle. Like warriors eager for glory, they have fought in battles. All beings fear the Maruts. They are men fearsome to behold, like kings. When the skilled Tvashtar had fashioned the fine golden thunderbolt with a thousand edges, Indra took it to perform his manly deeds. He killed Vritra and forced the waters out. By their power, the Maruts pushed the well upward and split the rock, however strong it was. With their voices booming, the generous Maruts performed their glorious deeds while drunk on Soma. They pushed the cloud across this way and poured out the spring for the thirsty Gotama. The Maruts approached him in beautiful splendor to help him. In their own ways, they fulfilled the sage's desire. Grant the man who gives three times the protection you offer the man who praises you! Give us that same protection, Maruts! Heroes, give us wealth and brave offspring!

Who are these resplendent men, dwelling together, the boys of Rudra, also with good horses? No one indeed knows their births, they alone know each other's birthplace. They plucked each other with their beaks; the hawks, rushing like the wind, strove together. A wise man understands these secrets, that Prisni, the great, bore an udder. May that clan be rich in heroes by the Maruts, always victorious, rich in manhood! They are quickest to go, most splendid with splendor, endowed with beauty, strong with strength. Strong is your strength, steadfast your powers, and thus by the Maruts is this clan mighty. Resplendent is your breath, furious are the minds of the wild host, like a shouting maniac. Keep from us entirely your flame, let not your hatred reach us here. I call on the dear names of your swift ones, so that the greedy should be satisfied, O Maruts, the well-armed, the swift, decked with beautiful chains, who themselves adorn their bodies. Bright are the libations for you, the bright ones, O Maruts, a bright sacrifice I prepare for the bright. In proper order came those who truly follow the order, the bright born, the bright, the pure.

Who are these radiant men who live together, the sons of Rudra, with their fine horses? No one knows where they were born. They alone know one another's birthplace. They pecked at one another with their beaks. The hawks, rushing like the wind, struggled together. A wise man understands these secrets, that the great Prisni bore an udder. Through the Maruts, may that clan have many heroes, always victorious and full of manly strength! The Maruts are the quickest to move, the most radiant, gifted with beauty and mighty in strength. Your strength is great, your powers unshakable, and through the Maruts this clan is mighty. Your breath is radiant. The minds of your wild host are furious, like a shouting madman. Keep your flame far from us. Do not let your hatred reach us here. I call on the beloved names of your swift ones, so that the greedy may be satisfied, O Maruts. You are well armed and swift, wearing beautiful chains and adorning your own bodies. Bright are the drink offerings for you, the bright ones, O Maruts. I prepare a bright sacrifice for you who are bright. Those who truly follow the order came in proper order, bright from birth, bright and pure.

On your shoulders, O Maruts, are the rings, on your chests the golden chains are fastened; far-shining like lightnings with showers, you wield your weapons, according to your wont. Your hidden splendors come forth; spread out your powers, O racers! Accept, O Maruts, this thousandfold, domestic share, as an offering for the house-gods. If you thus listen, O Maruts, to this praise, at the invocation of the powerful sage, give him quickly a share of wealth in plentiful offspring, which no selfish enemy shall be able to hurt. The Maruts, who are fleet like racers, the manly youths, shone like Yakshas; they are beautiful like boys standing round the hearth, they play about like calves who are still sucking. May the bounteous Maruts be gracious to us, opening up to us the firm heaven and earth. May that bolt of yours which kills cattle and men be far from us! Incline to us, O Vasus, with your favors. The Hotri priest calls on you again and again, sitting down and praising your common gift, O Maruts. O strong ones, he who is the guardian of so much wealth, he calls on you with praises, free from guile. These Maruts stop the swift, they bend strength by strength, they ward off the curse of the plotter, and turn their heavy hatred on the enemy.

Maruts, you wear rings on your shoulders and golden chains fastened across your chests. Shining far and wide like lightning amid showers, you wield your weapons as you always do. Your hidden splendors shine forth. Spread your powers, swift racers! Maruts, accept this thousandfold share from the household as an offering for the household gods. If you listen to this praise, Maruts, when the powerful sage calls, quickly grant him wealth in abundant offspring. Let no selfish enemy be able to harm that wealth. The Maruts, swift as racers, are vigorous youths who shone like Yakshas. They are beautiful like boys gathered around the hearth, and they play like calves still nursing. May the generous Maruts show us kindness, opening the firm heaven and earth to us. May your thunderbolt, which kills cattle and people, stay far from us! Turn toward us with your favors, Vasus. The Hotri priest calls on you again and again, sitting and praising your shared gift, Maruts. Strong ones, the priest who guards so much wealth calls on you with sincere praise, free from deceit. These Maruts stop the swift and overcome strength with strength. They ward off the plotter’s curse and turn their fierce hatred against the enemy.

These Maruts stir up even the sluggard, even the vagrant, as the gods pleased. O strong ones, drive away the darkness, and grant us all our kith and kin. May we not fall away from your bounty, O Maruts, may we not stay behind, O charioteers, in the distribution of your gifts. Let us share in the brilliant wealth, the well-acquired, that belongs to you, O strong ones. When valiant men fiercely fight together, for rivers, plants, and houses, then, O Maruts, sons of Rudra, be in battles our protectors from the enemy. O Maruts, you have valued the praises which our fathers have formerly recited to you; with the Maruts the victor is terrible in battle, with the Maruts alone the racer wins the prize. O Maruts, may we have a strong son, who is lord among men, a ruler, through whom we may cross the waters to dwell in safety, and then obtain our own home for you. May Indra then, Varuna, Mitra, Agni, the waters, the plants, the trees of the forest be pleased with us. Let us be in the keeping, in the lap of the Maruts; protect us always with your favors.

These Maruts stir even the lazy and the wanderer to action, as the gods wished. O mighty ones, drive away the darkness and grant us all our family and relatives. May we not lose your generosity, O Maruts. May we not be left behind, O charioteers, when you distribute your gifts. Let us share in your splendid, well-earned wealth, O mighty ones. When brave men fight fiercely over rivers, plants, and houses, protect us in battle from the enemy. O Maruts, sons of Rudra, be our defenders. O Maruts, you have valued the praises our fathers recited to you long ago. With the Maruts, the victor is fearsome in battle. With the Maruts alone, the racer wins the prize. O Maruts, may we have a strong son, a leader among men and a ruler. Through him, may we cross the waters to live in safety, and then gain our own home for you. May Indra, Varuna, Mitra, and Agni then be pleased with us. May the waters, plants, and forest trees also be pleased with us. Let us rest in the care and embrace of the Maruts. Always protect us with your favors.

Sing to the company of the Maruts, growing up together, the strong among the divine host: they stir heaven and earth by their might, they mount up to the firmament from the abyss of Nirriti. Even your birth was with fire and fury, O Maruts! You, terrible, wrathful, never tiring! You who stand forth with might and strength; everyone who sees the sun, fears at your coming. Grant mighty strength to our lords, if the Maruts are pleased with our praise. As a trodden path furthers a man, may they further us; help us with your brilliant favors. Favored by you, O Maruts, a wise man wins a hundred, favored by you a strong racer wins a thousand, favored by you a king also kills his enemy: may that gift of yours prevail, O ye shakers. I invite these bounteous sons of Rudra, will these Maruts turn again to us? Whatever they hated secretly or openly, that sin we pray the swift ones to forgive. This praise of our lords has been spoken: may the Maruts be pleased with this hymn. Keep far from us, O strong ones, all hatred, protect us always with your favors!

Sing to the company of the Maruts, who grow together, the strong ones among the divine host. Their might shakes heaven and earth. They rise to the sky from the abyss of Nirriti. Even your birth came with fire and fury, Maruts! You are terrible, full of wrath, and never tire! You stand out in might and strength. Everyone who sees the sun fears your coming. Give our lords mighty strength, if you Maruts are pleased with our praise. Just as a well-trodden path helps a traveler forward, may you help us forward. Help us with your glorious blessings. With your favor, Maruts, a wise man wins a hundred. With your favor, a strong racer wins a thousand. With your favor, a king also kills his enemy. May that gift of yours prevail, you who shake the world. I call on these generous sons of Rudra. Will these Maruts turn to us again? Whatever they have hated, secretly or openly, we ask these swift ones to forgive that sin. This praise of our lords has been spoken. May the Maruts be pleased with this hymn. Keep all hatred far from us, strong ones. Always protect us with your blessings!

Come hither, do not fail, when you march forward! Do not stay away, O united friends, you who can bend even what is firm. O Maruts, Ribhukshans, come hither on your flaming strong fellies, O Rudras, come to us to-day with food, you much-desired ones, come to the sacrifice, you friends of the Sobharis. For we know indeed the terrible strength of the sons of Rudra, of the vigorous Maruts, the liberal givers of rain. The clouds were scattered, but the monster remained, heaven and earth were joined together. O you who are armed with bright rings, the tracts of the sky expanded, whenever you stir, radiant with your own splendor. Even things that cannot be thrown down resound at your race, the mountains, the lord of the forest—the earth quivers on your marches. The upper sky makes wide room, to let your violence pass, O Maruts, when these strong-armed heroes display their energies in their own bodies. According to their wont these men, exceeding terrible, impetuous, with strong and unbending forms, bring with them beautiful light. The arrow of the Sobharis is shot from the bowstrings at the golden chest on the chariot of the Maruts. They, the kindred of the cow, the well-born, should enjoy their food, the great ones should help us.

Come here without fail as you march forward! Do not stay away, united friends, you who can bend even what is firm. Maruts, Ribhukshans, come here on your blazing, strong wheel rims. Rudras, come to us today with food, you whom we long for. Come to the sacrifice, friends of the Sobharis. For we know the terrible strength of Rudra’s sons, the vigorous Maruts, who give rain generously. The clouds were scattered, but the monster remained. Heaven and earth were joined together. You who are armed with bright rings, the reaches of the sky expanded whenever you stirred, radiant with your own splendor. Even things that cannot be knocked down resound as you race: the mountains and the lord of the forest. The earth trembles as you march. The upper sky makes ample room to let your violence pass, Maruts. This happens when these strong-armed heroes display the power within their own bodies. As they always do, these men bring beautiful light with them. They are utterly terrifying and headstrong, with strong, unbending bodies. The Sobharis’ arrow flies from the bowstrings toward the golden chest on the Maruts’ chariot. The Maruts, kin of the cow and nobly born, should enjoy their food. These great ones should help us.

Bring forward, O strongly-anointed priests, your libations to the strong host of the Maruts, the strongly advancing. O Maruts, O heroes, come quickly hither, like winged hawks, on your chariot with strong horses, of strong shape, with strong naves, to enjoy our libations. Their anointing is the same, the golden chains shine on their arms, their spears sparkle. These strong, manly, strong-armed Maruts, do not strive among themselves; firm are the bows, the weapons on your chariot, and on your faces are splendors. They whose terrible name, wide-spreading like the ocean, is the one of all that is of use, whose strength is like the vigor of their father, worship these Maruts, and praise them! Of these shouters, as of moving spokes, no one is the last; this is theirs by gift, by greatness is it theirs. Happy is he who was under your protection, O Maruts, in former mornings, or who may be so even now. Or he, O men, whose libations you went to enjoy; that mighty one, O shakers, will obtain your favors with brilliant riches and booty. As the sons of Rudra, the servants of the divine Dyu, will it, O youths, so shall it be.

Priests richly anointed with oil, bring your libations to the mighty host of the Maruts, who advance with strength. Maruts, heroes, come quickly here like winged hawks, riding your chariot to enjoy our libations. Your chariot has strong horses, a sturdy frame, and strong wheel hubs. The Maruts are all anointed alike. Golden chains shine on their arms, and their spears sparkle. These strong, manly, mighty-armed Maruts do not fight among themselves. The bows and weapons on your chariot are firm, and your faces shine with splendor. Worship and praise these Maruts! Their fearsome name spreads as widely as the ocean and is the name of all that is useful. Their strength is like their father's vigor. Among these shouting Maruts, as among turning spokes, no one comes last. This is theirs as a gift, and theirs through greatness. Happy is anyone who was under your protection in earlier mornings, Maruts, or who may be under it now. Happy, too, is anyone whose libations you came to enjoy, O men. That mighty person, O shakers, will gain your favor, along with brilliant riches and plunder. Whatever the sons of Rudra, the servants of the divine Dyu, will, O youths, so shall it be.

Whatever liberal givers may worship the Maruts, and move about together as generous benefactors, even from them turn towards us with a kinder heart, you youths! O Sobhari, call loud with your newest song the young, strong, and pure Maruts, as the plougher calls the cows. Worship the Maruts with a song, they who are strong like a boxer, called in to assist those who call for him in all fights; worship them the most glorious, like bright-shining bulls. Yes, O united friends, kindred, O Maruts, by a common birth, the oxen lick one another's humps. O ye dancers, with golden ornaments on your chests, even a mortal comes to ask for your brotherhood; take care of us, ye Maruts, for your friendship lasts forever. O bounteous Maruts, bring us some of your Marut-medicine, you friends, and steeds. With the favors whereby you favor the Sindhu, whereby you save, whereby you help Krivi, with those propitious favors be our delight, O delightful ones, ye who never hate your followers. O Maruts, for whom we have prepared good altars, whatever medicine there is on the Sindhu, on the Asiknî, in the seas, on the mountains, seeing it, you carry it all on your bodies. Bless us with it! Down to the earth, O Maruts, with what hurts our sick one—straighten what is crooked!

Whatever generous givers may worship the Maruts and move about together as benefactors, turn from even them toward us. Look on us with a kinder heart, young ones! Sobhari, call loudly with your newest song to the young, strong, and pure Maruts, as a plowman calls the cows. Worship the Maruts with a song. They are strong like a boxer called to help those who seek his aid in every fight. Worship these most glorious ones, like brightly shining bulls. Yes, Maruts, you are united friends, related by a common birth, like oxen licking one another’s humps. Dancers with golden ornaments on your chests, even a mortal comes to ask for your brotherhood. Care for us, Maruts, for your friendship lasts forever. Generous Maruts, bring us some of your Marut-medicine, you friends and steeds. You favor the Sindhu, save, and help Krivi. Delight us with those same gracious favors, delightful ones who never hate your followers. Maruts, we have prepared good altars for you. Whatever medicine there is on the Sindhu, on the Asiknî, in the seas, or on the mountains, you see it. You carry all that medicine on your bodies. Bless us with it! Maruts, cast down to the earth whatever harms our sick one. Straighten what is crooked!

Full of devotion like priests with their prayers, wealthy like pious men, who please the gods with their offerings, beautiful to behold like brilliant kings, without a blemish like the youths of our hamlets—they who are gold-breasted like Agni with his splendor, quick to help like self-harnessed winds, good leaders like the oldest experts, they are to the righteous man like Somas, that yield the best protection. They who are roaring and hasting like winds, brilliant like the tongues of fires, powerful like mailed soldiers, full of blessings like the prayers of our fathers, who hold together like the spokes of chariot-wheels, who glance forward like victorious heroes, who scatter ghrita like wooing youths, who chant beautifully like singers, intoning a hymn of praise, who are swift like the best of horses, who are bounteous like lords of chariots on a suit, who are hastening on like water with downward floods, who are like the manifold Angiras with their numerous songs. These noble sons of Sindhu are like grinding-stones, they are always like Soma-stones, tearing everything to pieces; these sons of a good mother are like playful children, they are by their glare like a great troop on its march. Illumining the sacrifice like the rays of the dawn, they shone forth in their ornaments like triumphant warriors; the Maruts with bright spears seem like running rivers, from afar they measure many miles. O gods, make us happy and rich, prospering us, your praisers, O Maruts! Remember our praise and our friendship, for from of old there are always with you gifts of treasures.

They are full of devotion, like priests at prayer, and wealthy, like the faithful who please the gods with offerings. They are beautiful to see, like radiant kings, and flawless, like the youths of our villages. Their breasts shine with gold, like Agni in his splendor. They are quick to help, like winds that harness themselves, and skilled leaders, like the most experienced guides. To the righteous man, they are like Somas that offer the best protection. They roar and rush like winds, shine like tongues of fire, and are powerful like soldiers in armor. They are full of blessings, like the prayers of our fathers. They hold together like the spokes of chariot wheels and look ahead like victorious heroes. They scatter ghrita like courting youths and sing beautifully like singers chanting a hymn of praise. They are swift like the finest horses and generous like chariot lords seeking favor. They rush onward like water flooding downhill. They are like the many Angiras with their countless songs. These noble sons of Sindhu are like grinding stones. They are always like Soma-stones, tearing everything to pieces. These sons of a good mother are like playful children. In their dazzling brightness, they are like a great troop on the march. They light up the sacrifice like the rays of dawn and shine in their ornaments like triumphant warriors. The Maruts with their bright spears seem like running rivers. From far away, they measure out many miles. O gods, make us happy and rich. Help us prosper, O Maruts, for we sing your praises! Remember our praise and our friendship, for gifts of treasure have always been yours to give since ancient times.

O Indra, a thousand have been thy helps accorded to us, a thousand, O driver of the bays, have been thy most delightful viands. May thousands of treasures richly to enjoy, may goods come to us a thousandfold. May the Maruts come towards us with their aids, the mighty ones, or with their best aids from the great heaven, now that their furthest steeds have rushed forth on the distant shore of the sea; there clings to the Maruts one who moves in secret, like a man's wife,² and who is like a spear carried behind, well grasped, resplendent, gold-adorned; there is also with them Vâk,³ like unto a courtly, eloquent woman. Far away the brilliant, untiring Maruts cling to their young maid, as if she belonged to them all; but the terrible ones did not drive away Rodasi, for they wished her to grow their friend. When the divine Rodasi with dishevelled locks, the manly-minded, wished to follow them, she went, like Sûryâ,⁴ to the chariot of her servant, with terrible look, as with the pace of a cloud. As soon as the poet with the libations, O Maruts, had sung his song at the sacrifice, pouring out Soma, the youthful men placed the young maid in their chariot as their companion for victory, mighty in assemblies. I praise what is the praiseworthy true greatness of those Maruts, that the manly-minded, proud, and strong one drives with them towards the blessed mothers. They protect Mitra and Varuna from the unspeakable, and Aryaman also finds out the infamous. Even what is firm and unshakable is being shaken; but he who dispenses treasures, O Maruts, has grown in strength. No people indeed, whether near to us, or from afar, have ever found the end of your strength, O Maruts! The Maruts, strong in daring strength, have, like the sea, boldly surrounded their haters. May we to-day, may we tomorrow in battle be called the most beloved of Indra. We were so formerly, may we truly be so day by day, and may the lord of the Maruts be with us. May this praise, O Maruts, this song of Mândârya, the son of Mâna, the poet, ask you with food for offspring for ourselves! May we have an invigorating autumn, with quickening rain!

O Indra, you have helped us a thousand times. Driver of the bays, you have given us a thousand delightful foods. May treasures come by the thousands for us to enjoy richly. May goods come to us a thousandfold. May the mighty Maruts come to us with their help, or with their best help from the great heaven. Now their farthest steeds have rushed out on the distant shore of the sea. Someone who moves in secret clings to the Maruts, like a man's wife,² and like a spear carried behind. That spear is firmly held, shining, and adorned with gold. Vâk³ is also with them, like a gracious, eloquent woman. Far away, the brilliant, tireless Maruts cling to their young maiden, as if she belonged to them all. But the fearsome ones did not drive Rodasi away, for they wanted her to become their friend. When the divine Rodasi, with loose hair and a manly spirit, wished to follow them, she went like Sûryâ.⁴ She approached her servant's chariot with a fearsome look, moving like a cloud. At the sacrifice, O Maruts, the poet brought offerings and sang his song while pouring out Soma. As soon as he sang, the young men placed the maiden in their chariot as their companion for victory. She was mighty in assemblies. I praise the true greatness of those Maruts, which deserves praise. The proud, strong one with a manly spirit rides with them toward the blessed mothers. They protect Mitra and Varuna from the unspeakable, and Aryaman also discovers the infamous. Even what is firm and unshakable is being shaken. But the giver of treasures, O Maruts, has grown stronger. No people, near or far, have ever found the limits of your strength, O Maruts! The Maruts, strong and daring, have boldly surrounded their enemies like the sea. May we today, and tomorrow in battle, be called Indra's most beloved. We were so before. May we truly be so every day, and may the lord of the Maruts be with us. O Maruts, may this praise, this song by the poet Mândârya, son of Mâna, ask you for food and offspring for us! May we have an autumn that renews our strength, with life-giving rain!

Who knows their birth? or who was of yore in the favor of the Maruts, when they harnessed the spotted deer? Who has heard them when they had mounted their chariots, how they went forth? For the sake of what liberal giver did they run, and their comrades followed, as streams of rain filled with food? They themselves said to me when day by day they came to the feast with their birds: they are manly youths and blameless; seeing them, praise them thus; they who shine by themselves in their ornaments, their daggers, their garlands, their golden chains, their rings, going on their chariots and on dry land. O Maruts, givers of quickening rain, I am made to rejoice, following after your chariots, as after days going with rain. The bucket which the bounteous heroes shook down from heaven for their worshipper, that cloud they send along heaven and earth, and showers follow on the dry land. The rivers having pierced the air with a rush of water, went forth like milk-cows; when your spotted deer roll about like horses that have hasted to the resting-place on their road. Come hither, O Maruts, from heaven, from the sky, even from near; do not go far away!

Who knows how the Maruts were born? Who long ago had their favor when they harnessed the spotted deer? Who heard the Maruts when they mounted their chariots and set out? For what generous giver did they race, with their companions following like streams of rain full of food? The Maruts themselves spoke to me when they came to the feast day after day with their birds. They are strong young men, free from blame. When you see them, praise them in this way. They shine with their own light, wearing ornaments, daggers, garlands, gold chains, and rings. They travel in their chariots and over dry land. O Maruts, givers of life-giving rain, I rejoice as I follow your chariots, as I follow days bringing rain. The generous heroes tipped a bucket down from heaven for their worshipper. They send that cloud across heaven and earth, and showers follow over the dry land. The rivers burst through the air in a rush of water and flowed out like milk cows. This happened when your spotted deer rolled about like horses that had hurried to a resting place along their road. Come here, O Maruts, from heaven, from the sky, even from nearby. Do not go far away!

Let not the Rasâ, the Anitabhâ, the Kubhâ, the Krumu, let not the Sindhu delay you! Let not the marshy Sarayu prevent you! May your favor be with us alone! The showers come forth after the host of your chariots, after the terrible Marut-host of the ever-youthful heroes. Let us then follow with our praises and our prayers each host of yours, each troop, each company. To what well-born generous worshipper have the Maruts gone to-day on that march, on which you bring to kith and kin the never-failing seed of corn? Give us that for which we ask you, wealth and everlasting happiness! Let us safely pass through our revilers, leaving behind the unspeakable and the enemies. Let us be with you when in the morning you shower down health, wealth, water, and medicine, O Maruts! That mortal, O men, O Maruts, whom you protect, may well be always beloved by the gods, and rich in valiant offspring. May we be such! Praise the liberal Maruts, and may they delight on the path of this man here who praises them, like cows in fodder. When they go, call after them as for old friends, praise them who love you, with your song!

Do not let the Rasâ, the Anitabhâ, the Kubhâ, the Krumu, or the Sindhu delay you! Do not let the marshy Sarayu hold you back! May your favor be ours alone! The showers follow your ranks of chariots, the fearsome Marut-host of heroes who are forever young. Let us then follow each of your hosts, each troop, each company, with our praises and prayers. Which well-born, generous worshipper have the Maruts visited today on their march? On this march, you bring relatives and loved ones an unfailing supply of seed grain. Give us what we ask of you, wealth and everlasting happiness! Let us pass safely through those who insult us, leaving behind the unspeakable and our enemies. Let us be with you, O Maruts, when you shower down health, wealth, water, and medicine in the morning! O men, O Maruts, the mortal you protect may well always be loved by the gods and have many brave children. May we be like that mortal! Praise the generous Maruts. May they delight in the path of this man who praises them, as cows delight in fodder. When the Maruts leave, call after them as you would call to old friends. Praise them with your song, for they love you!

You have fashioned this speech for the brilliant Marut-host which shakes the mountains: celebrate then the great manhood in honor of that host who praises the warm milk of the sacrifice, and sacrifices on the height of heaven, whose glory is brilliant. O Maruts, your powerful men came forth searching for water, invigorating, harnessing their horses, swarming around. When they aim with the lightning, Trita shouts, and the waters murmur, running around on their course. These Maruts are men brilliant with lightning, they shoot with thunderbolts, they blaze with the wind, they shake the mountains, and suddenly, when wishing to give water, they whirl the hail; they have thundering strength, they are robust, they are ever-powerful. When you drive forth the nights, O Rudras, the days, O powerful men, the sky, the mists, ye shakers, the plains, like ships, and the strongholds, O Maruts, you suffer nowhere. That strength of yours, O Maruts, that greatness extended as far as the sun extends its daily course, when you, like your deer on their march, went down to the western mountain with untouched splendor.

You have shaped this speech for the brilliant Marut-host that shakes the mountains. So celebrate that host’s great strength and courage. The host praises the warm milk of the sacrifice and offers sacrifices at heaven’s highest point. Its glory shines brightly. O Maruts, your powerful men came out searching for water, bringing fresh strength, harnessing their horses, and swarming around. When they aim their lightning, Trita shouts, and the waters murmur as they flow along their course. These Maruts are men who shine with lightning. They shoot thunderbolts, blaze with the wind, and shake the mountains. Then suddenly, when they wish to give water, they send hail whirling. Their strength thunders. They are sturdy and always powerful. O Rudras, you drive forward the nights. O powerful men, you drive forward the days. O shakers, you drive forward the sky, the mists, the plains like ships, and the strongholds. O Maruts, nowhere do you suffer. That strength of yours, O Maruts, that greatness, reached as far as the sun travels each day. This was when you went down to the western mountain, like your deer on the march, your splendor undiminished.

Your host, O Maruts, shone forth when, O sages, you strip, like a caterpillar, the waving tree. Conduct then, O friends, our service to a good end, as the eye conducts the man in walking. That man, O Maruts, is not overpowered, he is not killed, he does not fail, he does not shake, he does not drop, his goods do not perish, nor his protections, if you lead him rightly, whether he be a seer or a king. The men with their steeds, like conquerors of clans, like Aryaman, the Maruts, carrying waterskins, fill the well; when the strong ones roar, they moisten the earth with the juice of sweetness. When the Maruts come forth this earth bows, the heaven bows, the paths in the sky bow, and the cloud-mountains with their quickening rain. When you rejoice at sunrise, O Maruts, toiling together, men of sunlight, men of heaven, your horses never tire in running, and you quickly reach the end of your journey.

Your army shone, Maruts, when you sages stripped the swaying tree like a caterpillar. So guide our worship to a good end, friends, as the eye guides a person walking. Maruts, if you guide a man rightly, he is not overpowered or killed. He does not fail, tremble, or fall. Neither his possessions nor his defenses are destroyed, whether he is a seer or a king. The Maruts, men with horses, carry waterskins and fill the well, like conquerors of clans, like Aryaman. When these strong ones roar, they moisten the earth with sweet liquid. When the Maruts come forth, the earth bows, heaven bows, and the paths through the sky bow. So do the cloud-mountains with their life-giving rain. When you rejoice at sunrise, Maruts, you work together, men of sunlight, men of heaven. Your horses never tire as they run, and you quickly reach your journey’s end.

On your shoulders are the spears, on your feet rings, on your chests golden chains, O Maruts, on your chariot gems; fiery lightnings in your fists, and golden headbands tied round your heads. O Maruts, you shake the red apple from the firmament, whose splendor no enemy can touch; the hamlets bowed when the Maruts blazed, and the pious people intoned their far-reaching shout. O wise Maruts, let us carry off the wealth of food which you have bestowed on us; give us, O Maruts, such thousandfold wealth as never fails, like the star Tishya from heaven! O Maruts, you protect our wealth of excellent men, and the seer, clever in song; you give to the warrior a strong horse, you make the king to be obeyed. O you who are quickly ready to help, I implore you for wealth whereby we may overshadow all men, like the sky. O Maruts, be pleased with this word of mine, and let us speed by its speed over a hundred winters!

Maruts, you carry spears on your shoulders and wear rings on your feet and golden chains on your chests. Gems adorn your chariot. You hold fiery lightning in your fists, and golden headbands are tied around your heads. Maruts, you shake the red apple from the sky. No enemy can touch its splendor. The villages bowed when the Maruts blazed, and the devout people raised their far-reaching cry. Wise Maruts, let us carry away the wealth of food you have given us. Maruts, give us such thousandfold wealth as never fails, like the star Tishya in heaven! Maruts, you protect our wealth of excellent men and the seer skilled in song. You give the warrior a strong horse, and you make the king obeyed. You who are quick to help, I beg you for wealth that may let us overshadow all people, like the sky. Maruts, be pleased with these words of mine. Let their speed carry us swiftly through a hundred winters!

The chasing Maruts with gleaming spears, the golden-breasted, have gained great strength, they move along on quick, well-broken horses;—when they went in triumph, the chariots followed. You have yourselves, you know, acquired power; you shine bright and wide, you great ones. They have even measured the sky with their strength;—when they went in triumph, the chariots followed. The strong heroes, born together, and nourished together, have further grown to real beauty. They shine brilliantly like the rays of the sun;—when they went in triumph, the chariots followed. Your greatness, O Maruts, is to be honored, it is to be yearned for like the sight of the sun. Place us also in immortality;—when they went in triumph, the chariots followed. O Maruts, you raise the rain from the sea, and rain it down, O yeomen! Your milch-cows, O destroyers, are never destroyed;—when they went in triumph, the chariots followed. When you have joined the deer as horses to the shafts, and have clothed yourselves in golden garments, then, O Maruts, you scatter all enemies;—when they went in triumph, the chariots followed. Not mountains, not rivers have kept you back, wherever you see, O Maruts, there you go. You go even round heaven and earth;—when they went in triumph, the chariots followed. Be it old, O Maruts, or be it new, be it spoken, O Vasus, or be it recited, you take cognizance of it all;—when they went in triumph, the chariots followed. Have mercy on us, O Maruts, do not strike us, extend to us your manifold protection. Do remember the praise, the friendship;—when they went in triumph, the chariots followed. Lead us, O Maruts, towards greater wealth, and out of tribulations, when you have been praised. O worshipful Maruts, accept our offering, and let us be lords of treasures!

The pursuing Maruts, with gleaming spears and golden breasts, have gained great strength. They ride swift, well-trained horses. When they went in triumph, the chariots followed. You know that you yourselves have gained power. You great ones shine brightly, far and wide. The Maruts have even measured the sky with their strength. When they went in triumph, the chariots followed. These strong heroes, born together and raised together, have grown truly beautiful. They shine brilliantly like the sun’s rays. When they went in triumph, the chariots followed. Your greatness, Maruts, deserves honor and is something to long for, like the sight of the sun. Give us a place in immortality too. When they went in triumph, the chariots followed. Maruts, you draw rain from the sea and pour it down, you mighty men! Your milk cows, you destroyers, are never destroyed. When they went in triumph, the chariots followed. When you harness deer to your chariot shafts as horses and dress yourselves in golden clothes, you scatter all enemies. When they went in triumph, the chariots followed. Neither mountains nor rivers have held you back. Wherever you look, Maruts, you go. You even travel around heaven and earth. When they went in triumph, the chariots followed. Whether old or new, spoken or recited, Maruts, you Vasus take notice of it all. When they went in triumph, the chariots followed. Have mercy on us, Maruts. Do not strike us. Give us your many forms of protection. Remember our praise and friendship. When they went in triumph, the chariots followed. Maruts, once you have been praised, lead us toward greater wealth and out of trouble. Maruts, worthy of worship, accept our offering and let us be masters of treasures!

O Agni, on to the strong host of the Maruts, bedecked with golden chains and ornaments. To-day I call the folk of the Maruts down from the light of heaven. As thou, Agni, thinkest in thine heart, to the same object my wishes have gone. Strengthen thou these Maruts, terrible to behold, who have come nearest to thy invocations. Like a bountiful lady, the earth comes towards us, staggering, yet rejoicing; for your onslaught, O Maruts, is vigorous, like a bear, and fearful, like a wild bull. They who by their strength disperse wildly like bulls, impatient of the yoke, they by their marches make the heavenly stone, the rocky mountain cloud to shake. Arise, for now I call with my hymns the troop of these Maruts, grown strong together, the manifold, the incomparable, as if calling a drove of bulls. Harness the red mares to the chariot, harness the ruddy horses to the chariots, harness the two bays, ready to drive in the yoke, most vehement to drive in the yoke. And this red stallion too, loudly neighing, has been placed here, beautiful to behold; may it not cause you delay on your marches, O Maruts; spur him forth on your chariots.

O Agni, go forth to the mighty host of the Maruts, adorned with golden chains and ornaments. Today I call the people of the Maruts down from the light of heaven. Agni, my wishes have turned toward the same goal you hold in your heart. Strengthen these fearsome Maruts, who have come closest to your calls. Like a generous lady, the earth comes toward us, staggering yet rejoicing. For your onslaught, O Maruts, is powerful like a bear and fearsome like a wild bull. The Maruts scatter wildly in their strength, like bulls impatient with the yoke. As they march, they shake the heavenly stone, the rocky mountain cloud. Rise, for now I call this troop of Maruts with my hymns, as if calling a herd of bulls. They have grown strong together, many and unequaled. Harness the red mares to the chariot. Harness the reddish horses to the chariots. Harness the two bay horses, ready to pull in the yoke, most forceful as they pull. This red stallion, too, has been placed here, neighing loudly and beautiful to behold. May the stallion not delay you on your marches, O Maruts. Spur him onward with your chariots.

We call towards us the glorious chariot of the Maruts, whereon there stands also Rodasî, carrying delightful gifts, among the Maruts.

We call the glorious chariot of the Maruts toward us. Rodasî also stands on the chariot among the Maruts, carrying delightful gifts.

I call hither this your host, brilliant on chariots, terrible and glorious, among which she, the well-born and fortunate, the bounteous lady, is also magnified among the Maruts.

I call your host here, shining on chariots, fearsome and glorious. Among the Maruts, she too is praised, the generous lady of noble birth and good fortune.

O Rudras, joined by Indra, friends on golden chariots, come hither for our welfare! This prayer from us is acceptable to you like the springs of heaven to a thirsty soul longing for water. O you sons of Prisni, you are armed with daggers and spears, you are wise, carrying good bows and arrows and quivers, possessed of good horses and chariots. With your good weapons, O Maruts, you go to triumph! You shake the sky and the mountains for wealth to the liberal giver; the forests bend down out of your way from fear. O sons of Prisni, you rouse the earth when you, O terrible ones, have harnessed the spotted deer for triumph! The Maruts, blazing with the wind, clothed in rain, are as like one another as twins, and well adorned. They have tawny horses, and red horses, they are faultless, endowed with exceeding vigor; they are in greatness wide as the heaven. Rich in rain-drops, well adorned, bounteous, terrible to behold, of inexhaustible wealth, noble by birth, golden-breasted, these singers of the sky have obtained their immortal name. Spears are on your two shoulders, in your arms are placed strength, power, and might. Manly thoughts dwell in your heads, on your chariots are weapons, and every beauty has been laid on your bodies. O Maruts, you have given us wealth of cows, horses, chariots, and heroes, golden wealth! O men of Rudra, bestow on us great praise, and may I enjoy your divine protection! Hark, O heroes, O Maruts! Be gracious to us! You who are of great bounty, immortal, righteous, truly listening to us, poets, young, dwelling on mighty mountains, and grown mighty.

Rudras, friends on golden chariots, come with Indra for our welfare! Our prayer pleases you like heavenly springs please a thirsty soul longing for water. Sons of Prisni, you are armed with daggers and spears. You are wise and carry good bows, arrows, and quivers. You have good horses and chariots. With your good weapons, Maruts, you ride to victory! You shake the sky and mountains to bring wealth to the generous giver. The forests bend out of your way in fear. Sons of Prisni, you stir the earth when you harness the spotted deer for victory, terrifying ones! The Maruts blaze with the wind and are clothed in rain. They resemble one another like twins and are richly adorned. They have tawny horses and red horses. They are flawless and full of extraordinary vigor. Their greatness is as vast as the sky. Rich in raindrops and richly adorned, they are generous, terrifying to behold, and possess endless wealth. Noble by birth and golden-breasted, these singers of the sky have gained their immortal name. Spears rest on both your shoulders, and your arms hold strength, power, and might. Manly thoughts fill your heads, weapons ride on your chariots, and every beauty adorns your bodies. Maruts, you have given us wealth in cows, horses, chariots, and heroes, wealth in gold! Men of Rudra, grant us great praise, and may I enjoy your divine protection! Listen, heroes, Maruts! Be gracious to us! You are generous, immortal, and righteous, and you truly listen to us. You are poets, young, living on mighty mountains, and grown mighty.

I praise now the powerful company of these ever-young Maruts, who drive violently along with quick horses; aye, the sovereigns are lords of Amrita the immortal. The terrible company, the powerful, adorned with quoits on their hands, given to roaring, potent, dispensing treasures, they who are beneficent, infinite in greatness, praise, O poet, these men of great wealth! May your water-carriers come here to-day, all the Maruts who stir up the rain. That fire which has been lighted for you, O Maruts, accept it, O young singers! O worshipful Maruts, you create for man an active king, fashioned by Vibhvan; from you comes the man who can fight with his fist, and is quick with his arm, from you the man with good horses and valiant heroes. Like the spokes of a wheel, no one is last, like the days they are born on and on, not deficient in might. The very high sons of Prisni are full of fury, the Maruts cling firmly to their own will. When you have come forth with your speckled deer as horses on strong-fellied chariots, O Maruts, the waters gush, the forests go asunder;—let Dyu roar down, the bull of the Dawn. At their approach, even the earth opened wide, and they placed their own strength as a husband the germ. Indeed they have harnessed the winds as horses to the yoke, and the men of Rudra have changed their sweat into rain. Hark, O heroes, O Maruts! Be gracious to us! You who are of great bounty, immortal, righteous, truly listening to us, poets, young, dwelling on mighty mountains, and grown mighty.

I now praise this powerful company of ever-young Maruts, who race fiercely along with swift horses. Yes, these rulers are lords of Amrita, the immortal. Their fearsome, powerful company wears quoits on their hands and roars loudly. They are mighty and give out treasures. Poet, praise these men of great wealth, who do good and whose greatness has no limits! May your water-carriers come here today, all the Maruts who stir up the rain. Maruts, accept the fire lit for you, young singers! Maruts, worthy of worship, you create an energetic king for humankind, fashioned by Vibhvan. From you comes the man who can fight with his fist and strike quickly with his arm. From you comes the man with fine horses and brave heroes. Like the spokes of a wheel, none of you is last. Like the days, you are born again and again, never lacking strength. The towering sons of Prisni are full of fury. The Maruts hold firmly to their own will. Maruts, when you ride out with speckled deer as your horses, your chariots have strong wheel rims. Then the waters gush and the forests split apart. Let Dyu, the bull of the Dawn, roar down. At their approach, even the earth opened wide. They planted their own strength as a husband plants his seed. Indeed, they have yoked the winds as horses. The men of Rudra have turned their sweat into rain. Listen, heroes, Maruts! Be gracious to us! You give generously and are immortal and righteous. You truly listen to us. You are poets, young, living on mighty mountains, and grown mighty.

They truly tried to make you grant them welfare. Do thou sing praises to Heaven, I offer sacrifice to the Earth. The Maruts wash their horses and race to the air, they soften their splendor by waving mists. The earth trembles with fear from their onset. She sways like a full ship, that goes rolling. The heroes who appear on their marches, visible from afar, strive together within the great sacrificial assembly. Your horn is exalted for glory, as the horns of cows; your eye is like the sun, when the mist is scattered. Like strong racers, you are beautiful, O heroes, you think of glory, like manly youths. Who could reach, O Maruts, the great wise thoughts, who the great manly deeds of you, great ones? You shake the earth like a speck of dust, when you are carried forth for granting welfare. These kinsmen are like red horses, like heroes eager for battle, and they have rushed forward to fight. They are like well-grown manly youths, and the men have grown strong, with streams of rain they dim the eye of the sun. At their outbreak there is none among them who is the eldest, or the youngest, or the middle: they have grown by their own might, these sons of Prisni, noble by birth, the boys of Dyaus; come hither to us!

They truly tried to persuade you to grant them well-being. Sing praises to Heaven. I offer sacrifice to the Earth. The Maruts wash their horses and race into the air. They soften their brilliance with swirling mists. The earth trembles in fear at their advance. She sways like a full ship rolling on the waves. The heroes appear on their marches, visible from afar. They strive together in the great sacrificial gathering. Your horn is raised high for glory, like the horns of cows. Your eye is like the sun when the mist clears. Like strong racehorses, you are beautiful, heroes. You think of glory like young men full of strength. Who could match your great, wise thoughts, Maruts? Who could match your great deeds of strength, mighty ones? You shake the earth like a speck of dust when you ride out to grant well-being. These kinsmen are like red horses, like heroes eager for battle. They have rushed forward to fight. They are like fully grown young men, and these men have grown strong. With streams of rain, they dim the sun’s eye. When they burst forth, none among them is eldest, youngest, or in between. They have grown through their own might, these sons of Prisni, noble by birth, the boys of Dyaus. Come here to us!

Those who like birds flew with strength in rows from the ridge of the mighty heaven to its ends, their horses shook the springs of the mountain cloud, so that people on both sides knew it. May Dyaus Aditi roar for our feast, may the dew-lighted Dawns come striving together; these, the Maruts, O poet, the sons of Rudra, have shaken the heavenly bucket cloud, when they had been praised.

Like birds, they flew powerfully in rows from the ridge of the mighty heaven to its farthest edges. Their horses shook the springs of the mountain cloud, so that people on both sides knew it. May Dyaus Aditi roar for our feast. May the dew-lit Dawns come striving together. These are the Maruts, poet, the sons of Rudra. After being praised, the Maruts shook the heavenly cloud like a bucket.