Hymn 76

Hymns of the Atharva Veda, by Ralph T.H. Griffith, [1895], at sacred-texts.com

HYMN LXXVI

1As sits the young bird on the tree rejoicing, ye, swift pair, have
   been roused by clear laudation,
  Whose Hoter-priest through many days is Indra, earth's
   guardian, friend of men, the best of heroes.
2May we, when this Dawn and the next dance hither, be thy best
   servants, most heroic Hero!
  Let the victorious car with triple splendour bring hitherward the
   hundred chiefs with Kutsa.
3What was the gladdening draught that pleased thee, Indra?
  Speed to our doors, our songs, for thou art mighty.
  Why comest thou to me, what gift attracts thee?
  Fain would I bring thee food most meet to offer.
4Indra, what fame hath one like thee mid heroes? With what
   plan wilt thou act? Why hast thou sought us?
  As a true friend, Wide-Strider! to sustain us, since food absorbs
   the thought of each among us.
5Speed happily those, as Sūrya ends his journey, who meet his
   wish as bridegrooms meet their spouses;
  Men who support, O Indra strong by nature, with food the
   many songs that tell thy praises. p. 327
6Thine are two measures, Indra, wide, well-meted, heaven for thy
   majesty, earth for thy wisdom.
  Here for thy choice are Somas mixed with butter: may the
   sweet meath be pleasant for thy drinking.
7They have poured out a bowl to him, to Indra, full of sweet
   juice, for faithful is his bounty.
  O'er earth's expanse hath he grown great by wisdom, the friend
   of man, and by heroic exploits.
8Indra hath conquered in his wars the mighty: men strive in
   multitudes to win his friendship.
  Ascend thy chariot as it were in battle, which thou shalt drive
   to us with gracious favour,