Mandala 8 Hymns
A collection of sacred hymns from one of the ten books (Mandalas) of the Rigveda, the oldest scripture of Hinduism.
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Hymn 8.1
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Medhatithi, Priyamedha, Others
An ardent call to Indra, celebrating his immense strength as the fort-destroyer and giver of wealth. The hymn urges unwavering praise, pledging loyalty over any price. It recounts his heroic deeds—from healing to rescuing Kutsa—and eagerly summons him to the Soma ritual for protection and abundance.
Hymn 8.2
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Medhatithi, Priyamedha, Others
This hymn is a fervent invitation for Indra to drink the sacred Soma, presented by the devoted Kanvas. It emphasizes his unparalleled strength and role as the universe's companion. Praising his generosity, the hymn seeks his protection from foes and calls upon the hero to bestow abundant wealth and glory.
Hymn 8.3
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Medhatithi, Priyamedha, Others
A majestic hymn celebrating Indra's cosmic power—from spreading the worlds to making the sun shine. It earnestly seeks his protection, strength, and wealth, emphasizing his ancient, unsurpassed might. The seer invokes Indra in worship, battle, and for prosperity, recalling his heroic deeds and affirming his unique majesty.
Hymn 8.4
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Medhatithi, Priyamedha, Others
This hymn first calls Indra from all corners, inviting him to drink Soma like a thirsty bull, affirming his presence among various tribes. It then turns to Pūṣan, seeking his alliance, wisdom, and protection for cattle and prosperity. The hymn celebrates divine generosity and the tangible benefits of devotion.
Hymn 8.5
Addressed to: Asvins
Rishi: Medhatithi, Priyamedha, Others
Welcoming the swift Ashvins at dawn, this hymn praises the divine twins' golden chariot and healing powers. It invites them to bring wealth, cows, and strong heroes, recounting their past aid to sages in distress. The hymn fervently seeks their protective presence and bountiful blessings for the sacrificer and his community.
Hymn 8.6
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Vatsa
This hymn glorifies Indra’s formidable power, amplified by the Kanvas’ praises, celebrating his cosmic role as the Vritra-slayer who unleashed the waters. It seeks abundant wealth, cattle, and wisdom, affirming his ancient wisdom and sole, boundless rule. The hymn is a fervent call for his mighty and protective presence.
Hymn 8.7
Addressed to: The Maruts
Rishi: Vatsa
A vivid hymn depicting the awe-inspiring Maruts, storm gods, roaring as they make mountains tremble and scatter mist. It invokes them for aid and wealth, highlighting their power to unleash rain and bring light. The hymn recounts their protection of Indra, admiring their golden adornments and swift, destructive beauty.
Hymn 8.8
Addressed to: Asvins
Rishi: Vatsa
A fervent hymn repeatedly summoning the Ashvins to Vatsa’s sacrifice to drink Soma. It praises their golden chariot and swiftness, highlighting their proven generosity in aiding past sages. The seer earnestly seeks their abundant wealth, well-being, and protection from foes, underscoring a deep, personal devotion.
Hymn 8.9
Addressed to: Asvins
Rishi: Vatsa
This comprehensive hymn implores the Ashvins for swift aid, wide shelter, and strength from all realms. It highlights their healing powers and ancient deeds, urging them to remember past invocations. Linking their arrival to dawn and Soma offerings, the hymn seeks glory, power, and wisdom for protection, prosperity, and posterity.
Hymn 8.10
Addressed to: Asvins
Rishi: Vatsa
This broad hymn invokes the Ashvins from vast distances—whether in sky, ocean, or among various tribes—to the Kanvas' sacrifice. It praises their excellent works and esteemed friendship among gods, inviting their swift energy. Also calling upon Brihaspati, Indra, and Vishnu, the hymn seeks their collective divine presence for auspicious rituals.
Hymn 8.11
Addressed to: Agni
Rishi: Vatsa
This hymn reveres Agni as the eternal priest and guardian of sacred vows. Worshippers adore the fire god for his wisdom, seeking his aid to drive away enemies and grant them prosperity through sacrifices.
Hymn 8.12
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Sons of Kanva
An impassioned ode to Indra, celebrating his immense strength, especially after drinking Soma. It extols his cosmic deeds—like destroying Vritra, moving waters, and upholding the sky—and invokes him for aid, wealth, and victory in battle.
Hymn 8.13
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Sons of Kanva
This hymn calls upon Indra, the mighty Soma-drinker, as a purifying force and closest friend. Worshippers invoke him for abundant wealth and protection, celebrating his power as a supreme ruler who is pleased by hymns and offerings.
Hymn 8.14
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Sons of Kanva
This hymn praises Indra as the ultimate master of wealth and unparalleled benefactor. It celebrates his formidable power in cosmic acts, such as breaking Vala and establishing the heavens, showcasing his generosity and ability to overcome all adversaries.
Hymn 8.15
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Sons of Kanva
A powerful hymn that hails Indra as the supreme ruler and Vritra-slayer, whose strength upholds the cosmos. It celebrates his constant victories and leadership, affirming his unrivaled power and generosity as a protector of mankind.
Hymn 8.16
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Sons of Kanva
This hymn glorifies Indra as the sovereign of mankind, a liberal king, and formidable warrior. It praises his ability to bring joy, victory, and vast wealth, invoking him to safely carry worshippers beyond all enemies.
Hymn 8.17
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Sons of Kanva
A direct and intimate invitation to Indra, urging him to partake in the prepared Soma and accept praises. The worshipper eagerly seeks his presence, expecting him to be delighted and to destroy obstacles with Soma-fueled might.
Hymn 8.18
Addressed to: Adityas
Rishi: Sons of Kanva
This hymn is a comprehensive prayer to the Adityas and other benevolent gods for protection, well-being, and long life. It seeks their grace to ward off all forms of harm, sickness, and sin, and to ensure prosperity.
Hymn 8.19
Addressed to: Agni
Rishi: Sobhari
This extensive hymn praises Agni as the divine messenger and skilled priest, celebrating his fiery brilliance and protective power. It extols his role in bringing prosperity, defeating enemies, and shielding worshippers from all harm and distress.
Hymn 8.20
Addressed to: The Maruts
Rishi: Sobhari
This hymn fervently invites the Maruts, fierce and united storm-gods, to the sacrifice. It extols their mighty, earth-shaking power, their brilliant appearance, and their benevolent protection, eagerly seeking their healing and favor.
Hymn 8.21
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Sobhari
This hymn is an ardent plea to Indra, the unequaled warrior and provider. Poets call upon him for aid, protection, and abundance in battle and daily life. They express deep friendship, urge him to drink Soma, and celebrate his ancient, unmatched generosity and strength.
Hymn 8.22
Addressed to: Asvins
Rishi: Sobhari
Poets earnestly invoke the swift-riding Ashvins, the divine twins, for help and protection. They praise their wondrous chariot, healing powers, and generosity, inviting them to their ritual. The hymn seeks their blessings—wealth, horses, cattle, and gold—emphasizing their irresistible, protective presence.
Hymn 8.23
Addressed to: Agni
Rishi: Vyasva
This hymn offers profound praise to Agni, the divine priest and messenger of fire. It celebrates his luminous presence, his role in sacrifice, and his power to grant wealth, strength, and protection from enemies. Poets seek his continuous blessings and guidance.
Hymn 8.24
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Vyasva
An enthusiastic tribute to Indra, the thunderbolt-wielder and Vritra-slayer. This hymn hails his unmatched strength, generosity, and ability to bestow immense wealth and glory. Poets urge worshipers to offer Soma, seeking his powerful aid and expressing unwavering devotion.
Hymn 8.25
Addressed to: Mitra and Varuna and Other Gods
Rishi: Vyasva
A plea for universal protection from Mitra and Varuna, the cosmic guardians, and other deities. It reveres these upholders of Rta (cosmic order) for their wisdom, sovereignty, and blessings of rain and sustenance, seeking their collective, unwavering guardianship in all aspects of life.
Hymn 8.26
Addressed to: Asvins and Vayu
Rishi: Vyasva
This hymn first calls upon the Ashvins for swift aid, wealth, and protection against foes, celebrating their universal movement. It then shifts to Vayu, the wind god, inviting him to drink Soma and seeking his wisdom, strength, and abundant blessings for the community.
Hymn 8.27
Addressed to: All the Gods
Rishi: Manu Vaivasvata
A broad invocation to a host of gods—including Agni, Maruts, Adityas, and Indra—seeking their collective protection, help, and sustenance. It emphasizes the rewards of sacrifice and adherence to divine law, ensuring prosperity, offspring, and smooth paths for the worshiper.
Hymn 8.28
Addressed to: All the Gods
Rishi: Manu Vaivasvata
This brief, solemn hymn acknowledges the ancient assembly of thirty-three gods, including Varuna, Mitra, and Agnis. It declares their omnipresent guardianship from all directions and affirms their unchallengeable power, stating that their divine will is absolute.
Hymn 8.29
Addressed to: All the Gods
Rishi: Manu Vaivasvata
A poetic series of terse descriptions, this hymn sketches the distinct powers and attributes of various deities without naming them directly. It highlights diverse divine actions—from adornment and wielding thunderbolts to taking cosmic strides—offering an evocative glimpse into the pantheon's functions.
Hymn 8.30
Addressed to: All the Gods
Rishi: Manu Vaivasvata
Addressing all gods, this hymn declares their universal greatness and power. It humbly petitions them for protection, help, and guidance, urging them to keep the worshipers on their ancestral paths and to ensure the well-being and prosperity of their cattle and horses.
Hymn 8.31
Addressed to: Praise of the Sacrificer and His Wife
Rishi: Manu Vaivasvata
This hymn celebrates the power of worship, affirming that those who offer Soma and sacrifices gain Indra's protection, abundance, and victory over foes. It also seeks blessings from a host of other deities, ensuring welfare and easy cosmic paths for the devout.
Hymn 8.32
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Medhatithi, Sons of Kanva
The Kanvas sing of Indra's formidable strength, recounting his triumphs over demons like Vritra, freeing waters and cattle. They call upon him in Soma-intoxication, seeking his protection, abundant wealth, and swift arrival to their fervent offerings and hymns.
Hymn 8.33
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Medhatithi, Sons of Kanva
Drawing Indra to their Soma-pressing like a roaring bull, devotees laud his wisdom, might, and fearlessness. This hymn celebrates him as the unconquered Vritra-slayer and fort-breaker, who grants abundant riches and victory, eagerly sought for his powerful presence.
Hymn 8.34
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Medhatithi, Sons of Kanva
This hymn repeatedly calls to Indra, the "dweller in the sky," to descend for the Soma libations. It describes the resonant pressing stones and Kanva's prayers, urging the hero to come from afar for protection, enjoyment, and to shower thousands of cows and horses upon his devotees.
Hymn 8.35
Addressed to: Asvins
Rishi: Syavasva
No summary available yet.
Hymn 8.36
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Syavasva
A powerful, rhythmic hymn repeatedly invites the "Hundred-Powered" Indra to drink Soma for exhilaration. It extols his cosmic roles as creator of sky and earth, father of animals, and protector of worshippers, asserting his ultimate dominion in battles and his capacity for great victories.
Hymn 8.37
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Syavasva
This hymn fervently calls upon Indra, the Vritra-slayer and wielder of the thunderbolt, to drink the midday Soma. It celebrates him as the sole sovereign who conquers armies, separates worlds, and grants aid, emphasizing his unmatched strength and protective power.
Hymn 8.38
Addressed to: Indra and Agni
Rishi: Syavasva
This hymn joyfully invokes the powerful duo, Indra and Agni, urging them to attend the sacrifice and drink the Soma. It hails them as unconquered heroes, battle-winners, and generous givers, inviting them with praises like the Gayatri to bestow their favor upon the worshippers.
Hymn 8.39
Addressed to: Agni
Rishi: Nabhaka
This hymn sings Agni's praises as the glorious, wise messenger who connects gods and mortals. It extols his power to bestow wealth, peace, and joy, while fiercely invoking him to burn away destructive thoughts and hatreds, ensuring all adversaries perish.
Hymn 8.40
Addressed to: Indra and Agni
Rishi: Nabhaka
Calling upon Indra and Agni, this hymn seeks their supreme power for abundant wealth and decisive victory in battles, urging them to consume enemies like fire. It celebrates them as wise cosmic liberators who released the rivers and broke Shushna's might, securing the worshippers' triumph.
Hymn 8.41
Addressed to: Varuna
Rishi: Nabhaka
This hymn celebrates Varuna, the cosmic guardian, who oversees human thoughts, establishes dawns, and supports the worlds with his immense wisdom and power. He is depicted as omnipresent, dispelling illusions, and holding all creation in his firm decree, asserting his absolute supremacy.
Hymn 8.42
Addressed to: Varuna and the Asvins
Rishi: Nabhaka
This hymn extols Varuna as the all-knowing Asura who shaped the cosmos, seeking his triple-layered protection, sharpened intellect, and strength to overcome all troubles. It then shifts to inviting the swift Ashvins for the exhilarating Soma drink and urgent aid.
Hymn 8.43
Addressed to: Agni
Rishi: Virupa, Vasa, Others
This hymn vividly praises Agni, the fire god, as a wise arranger and performer of sacrifice. It describes his fierce, golden flames devouring forests, rising to the sky, and shining like dawn. Worshippers invoke him for wealth, protection from enemies, and his powerful, radiant presence in all forms.
Hymn 8.44
Addressed to: Agni
Rishi: Virupa, Vasa, Others
No summary available yet.
Hymn 8.45
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Virupa, Vasa, Others
This hymn hails Indra as the youthful, unequaled hero and friend to his worshippers, celebrating his prowess as the Vritra-slayer and leader in battle. Supplicants seek his mighty protection, vast bounty, and aid in overcoming enemies, recounting his legendary deeds and generosity.
Hymn 8.46
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Virupa, Vasa, Others
This hymn praises Indra as the ultimate leader and sustainer, a giver of immense wealth and protection, whose strength aids devotees in all endeavors. It also briefly invokes Vayu for gifts and inspiration, highlighting the bountiful rewards received by generous patrons under divine favor.
Hymn 8.47
Addressed to: Adityas
Rishi: Virupa, Vasa, Others
This hymn earnestly invokes Varuna, Mitra, and the Adityas for pervasive protection, seeking shelter from harm and evil like birds under wings. It implores these gods to grant life, wealth, and to turn away all misfortunes, including bad dreams, transferring them to the mythical Trita Āptya.
Hymn 8.48
Addressed to: Soma
Rishi: Virupa, Vasa, Others
This hymn exuberantly praises Soma as a delicious, invigorating nectar that bestows immortality, light, and divine connection. It calms anger, strengthens the body, prolongs life, and protects from illness. Worshippers celebrate its transformative power, seeking its grace and protection from all harm.
Hymn 8.49
Addressed to: Indra
This hymn praises Indra as a generous bestower of gifts, a bold enemy-slayer whose blessings flow like rivers. Worshippers invite him to drink Soma, desiring abundant prosperity and recalling his crucial aid to many sages and heroes of the past.
Hymn 8.50
Addressed to: Indra
This hymn extols Indra as supremely generous, showering desirable wealth upon his worshippers like a flowing spring. It celebrates his unconquerable powers and invites him, with his swift horses, to come swiftly for aid, acknowledging his historical assistance to many sages.
Hymn 8.51
Addressed to: Indra
This hymn celebrates Indra's legendary generosity, recalling how he drank Soma with ancient sages and aided the weak. Worshippers appeal to the mighty Indra, the giver of treasures, for ongoing nourishment, cows, wealth, and heroic strength, affirming his power over foes and his endless benevolence.
Hymn 8.52
Addressed to: Indra
Celebrating Indra's joyful revelry, this hymn recounts his past delight in Soma with various figures and praises. Worshippers invoke this powerful, father-like deity for wealth, cows, and horses, asserting his protective nature and his ultimate role as the spontaneous giver of all good things.
Hymn 8.53
Addressed to: Indra
A fervent prayer to Indra, calling him the most magnificent, fortress-destroyer, and master of wealth. Worshippers seek his decisive aid to conquer enemies, dispel hatred, and bring prosperity, offspring, and victory in battles, affirming his supreme power and seeking his close assistance.
Hymn 8.54
Addressed to: Indra or All the Gods
Praising Indra's heroic might and seeking his aid, this hymn also broadens its appeal to a host of other deities—Vasus, Rudras, Maruts, Vishnu, Sarasvati, and natural forces. It asks Indra for gifts, leadership in conflict, and lasting prosperity for the worshipper.
Hymn 8.55
Addressed to: Thanksgiving
Beyond a brief nod to Indra’s might, this hymn paints a vivid picture of immense material wealth. It describes a lavish array of hundreds of bulls, poles, dogs, hides, and especially swift, dark mares, reflecting a state of great abundance and prosperity for the blessed Kāṇvāyanas.
Hymn 8.56
Addressed to: Thanksgiving
This hymn details an extraordinary bounty, praising the "wolf-like" Pautakrata for bestowing ten thousand units of wealth, hundreds of asses, wool-bearing animals, and slaves. It celebrates a human patron's immense generosity, concluding with a brief, radiant image of Agni.
Hymn 8.57
Addressed to: Asvins
An invocation to the divine twins, the Ashvins (Nasatyas), revered for their ancient wisdom and mighty powers. Worshippers invite them to drink the sacred Soma and seek their renowned protection, recalling their praiseworthy deeds and promises, especially in times of battle.
Hymn 8.58
Addressed to: Fragment
This unique hymn opens with a reflection on priestly knowledge and then offers a profound statement about divine unity, seeing Agni, Surya, and Ushas as manifestations of "one reality." It concludes by invoking a radiant, well-equipped chariot for the divine twins (Ashvins).
Hymn 8.59
Addressed to: Indra and Varuna
Addressed to the powerful duo Indra and Varuṇa, this hymn pours out Soma offerings, praising their greatness, truth, and strength. Worshippers seek comprehensive blessings: protection, abundant wealth, children, prosperity, long life, and wisdom from these Lords of splendor.
Hymn 8.60
Addressed to: Agni
Rishi: Sons of Kanva, Pragatha
A lengthy and devoted hymn to Agni, the divine priest, purifier, and bringer of gods. Worshippers implore him to blaze forth, grant bliss, protect them fiercely from all enemies and evils, and bestow life-strengthening wealth, strength, and victory in battles.
Hymn 8.61
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Sons of Kanva, Pragatha
This hymn praises Indra, the mighty Bull, inviting him to drink Soma for strength. Worshippers ask for his protection from all sides, fearlessness, and a bounty of horses and cattle. He's celebrated as the victorious destroyer of forts, whose friendship brings wealth and defies the unconquerable.
Hymn 8.62
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Sons of Kanva, Pragatha
Celebrating Indra’s unmatched strength and beneficial gifts, this hymn affirms his supreme power. He empowers the bold, befriends worshippers, and protects the universe, famously slaying Vritra. It contrasts the blessings for those who sacrifice with the fate of those who don't, echoing "Indra's gifts are beneficial."
Hymn 8.63
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Sons of Kanva, Pragatha
This hymn links Indra to ancient wisdom and his role in liberating cows for the Angirases. It praises him as the sustainer of speech and hymns, asserting that all deeds are within his power. Worshippers invoke his strength and seek his protection, hoping to conquer with his alliance and the aid of other gods.
Hymn 8.64
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Sons of Kanva, Pragatha
A direct appeal to Indra, inviting him to delight in hymns and bestow bounty. The worshipper asks him to crush the ungenerous and hateful, acknowledging his immense power as king and lord. It extends an urgent call to drink Soma, seeking his presence day and night to fulfill desires.
Hymn 8.65
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Sons of Kanva, Pragatha
Summoning Indra from all directions, this hymn invites him to enjoy Soma juice, like a call for nourishment. It praises his glory and rule, asking him to grant great fame and protection from harm. The hymn also acknowledges earthly gifts received, connecting divine favor with worldly prosperity.
Hymn 8.66
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Sons of Kanva, Pragatha
Priests energetically invoke Indra with songs and Soma, seeking his assistance and abundant wealth. This hymn recounts his mighty deeds, from scattering buried treasures to making cow enclosures tremble. It emphasizes continuous worship, inviting Indra to drink Soma and provide protection from all forms of misery and harm.
Hymn 8.67
Addressed to: Adityas
Rishi: Priyamedha, Others
This hymn is a comprehensive plea to the Adityas—Mitra, Varuna, Aryaman, and Mother Aditi—for gracious help and protection. It seeks their aid against adversity, destructive weapons, and enemies, asking for release from bonds, cleansing from sin, and the preservation of children and lineage.
Hymn 8.68
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Priyamedha, Others
Praising Indra as mighty, all-encompassing, and the protector of men and chariots, this hymn invokes him for happiness and aid in battles. Worshippers acknowledge his sweet friendship and generosity, seeking great wealth and ample space for life. It also lists specific gifts received from patrons, reinforcing his bounty.
Hymn 8.69
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Priyamedha, Others
A joyful hymn sending forth praise for Indra, the giver of joy, inviting him to a vibrant feast. It describes cows preparing Soma and various sounds of celebration for the guardian of cows. Rich imagery portrays Indra's active deeds—splitting clouds, mounting chariots—as worshippers seek union with him.
Hymn 8.70
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Priyamedha, Others
This hymn extols Indra as the unmatched king and Vritra-slayer, whose power exceeds all heavens and earths. It appeals to him for wealth and protection, particularly against the irreligious and slanderers. Worshippers pledge praise, confident in Indra's mighty hand to uphold them and strike down foes.
Hymn 8.71
Addressed to: Agni
Rishi: Priyamedha, Others
This hymn is a fervent appeal to Agni for comprehensive protection from all enemies, both human and divine. It praises Agni as the powerful, wise, and wealth-bestowing deity, seeking his aid, cattle, and abundant prosperity. The tone is reverent, highlighting Agni's strength and role as a divine friend and protector.
Hymn 8.72
Addressed to: Agni or Praise of the Oblations
Rishi: Gopavana, Sons of Atri
A vivid and somewhat enigmatic hymn detailing aspects of the Soma ritual. It describes the preparation of offerings, the symbolic actions of priests, and mystical imagery involving a "radiant Calf," "seven milk," and "founts" of mead. The hymn invokes Rudra and Indra, portraying Soma as a powerful, life-sustaining medicine.
Hymn 8.73
Addressed to: Asvins
Rishi: Gopavana, Sons of Atri
This hymn is a fervent and repeated call to the Ashvins, the divine twins, imploring their swift and immediate protection. It highlights their legendary acts of aid, like saving Atri, and seeks their presence, blessing with wealth, and deliverance from affliction. The constant refrain underscores the urgency of the plea.
Hymn 8.74
Addressed to: Agni
Rishi: Gopavana, Sons of Atri
A hymn of powerful praise for Agni, honoring him as a beloved guest and the ultimate carrier of offerings to the gods. It extols his might as Vritra's slayer and a piercer of darkness, seeking his favor for glory in battle and general prosperity, with personal mentions interwoven.
Hymn 8.75
Addressed to: Agni
Rishi: Virupa, Others
This hymn urgently calls upon Agni, the ancient priest, to harness his powers and intercede with the gods. It praises him as the wise lord of wealth and seeks his active protection against enemies and misfortune. The worshipper asks Agni to make room for prosperity and to support them like a father.
Hymn 8.76
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Virupa, Others
A powerful hymn invoking Indra, always accompanied by the fierce Maruts. It recounts his heroic deeds, like slaying Vritra and releasing the celestial waters, and calls upon him to drink the Soma offerings. The hymn celebrates Indra's immense strength, vigor, and capacity to conquer and protect.
Hymn 8.77
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Virupa, Others
This hymn vividly portrays Indra's birth and his immediate, formidable rise to power. It recounts his heroic feats, such as conquering Vritra and the Dasyus, drinking vast amounts of Soma, and providing sustenance. The hymn emphasizes Indra's inherent strength, unique arrow, and firmly established achievements from the very beginning.
Hymn 8.78
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Virupa, Others
A fervent prayer to Indra, acknowledging him as the supreme giver of wealth and unparalleled in generosity. The worshipper implores Indra for abundant gifts—from cows and horses to gold and adornments—expressing deep faith in his unshakeable power, all-seeing nature, and capacity to fulfill desires for prosperity.
Hymn 8.79
Addressed to: Soma
Rishi: Virupa, Others
This hymn exalts Soma as a powerful, all-conquering being and a sage. It praises his remarkable healing abilities, restoring sight, movement, and covering what is bare. The worshipper seeks Soma's compassionate protection from harm, hatred, and fear, imploring him to bring well-being and drive away all obstructors.
Hymn 8.80
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Others, Ekadyu, Krishna
This hymn is a confident and earnest appeal to Indra for his unwavering protection and leadership. The worshipper seeks Indra's assistance in overcoming challenges, making their "chariot" foremost, and securing victory and renown. It emphasizes Indra's role as a mighty fortress and provider of auspicious outcomes.
Hymn 8.81
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Others, Ekadyu, Krishna
This hymn hails the mighty Indra, celebrating his immense power, wealth, and unstoppable generosity. Worshippers urgently call on him to arrive, grasp rich spoils, and bestow abundant boons upon them, confident in his readiness to help and his unmatched strength.
Hymn 8.82
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Others, Ekadyu, Krishna
This hymn is a fervent invitation to Indra, the Vritra-slayer, urging him to approach quickly and partake in potent Soma offerings. Worshippers emphasize his accustomed delight in the strengthening sweetness, hoping he will drink deeply and find complete satisfaction, even referencing Soma brought by a hawk.
Hymn 8.83
Addressed to: All the Gods
Rishi: Others, Ekadyu, Krishna
This hymn broadly invokes a pantheon of gods—including Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, Indra, Vishnu, Maruts, and Ashvins—seeking their great protection and aid. It’s a plea for auspicious wealth and safe passage through dangers, emphasizing unity and a shared divine lineage for prosperity.
Hymn 8.84
Addressed to: Agni
Rishi: Others, Ekadyu, Krishna
This hymn warmly praises Agni as a dearest guest, a wise sage established among mortals. Worshippers seek his protection for their families and gifts, asking how best to earn his favor. It emphasizes Agni's role in granting good dwellings and abundant wealth through hymns and offerings.
Hymn 8.85
Addressed to: Asvins
Rishi: Others, Ekadyu, Krishna
This hymn is a rhythmic, insistent call to the Ashvins (Nasatyas), repeatedly inviting them to drink the sweet Soma juice. The sage Krishṇa invokes the twin deities for strength, wealth, and inviolable shelter, urging them to arrive on their distinctive chariot.
Hymn 8.86
Addressed to: Asvins
Rishi: Others, Ekadyu, Krishna
This hymn praises the Ashvins as wondrous healers and givers of wisdom, with the worshipper Vishvaka calling upon them for friendship and release from distress. It broadens to seek protection from a hero and acknowledges the divine Savitr's work through cosmic order (rta), which conquers even fierce warriors.
Hymn 8.87
Addressed to: Asvins
Rishi: Others, Ekadyu, Krishna
This hymn glorifies the Ashvins, inviting them with fervor to drink Soma (gharmam) and sit on the sacred grass. The Priyamedhas invoke these wondrous, order-upholding deities, asking them to come swiftly on their horses and grant protection and blessings in the human dwelling.
Hymn 8.88
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Nodhas
This hymn exalts Indra as a wonderful, strong, and bounteous deity, comparing his might to an unmovable mountain. Worshippers call upon him, confident that neither natural forces nor obstacles can hinder his unstoppable generosity in bestowing wealth and aid, particularly to the Gotamas.
Hymn 8.89
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Nodhas
This hymn sings a brilliant praise of Indra, the greatest Vritra-slayer, urging the Maruts to join in. It celebrates his heroic cosmic feats: creating light, banishing evil, shaping the earth and sky, and making Surya ascend, highlighting his unequalled power and glory over all existence.
Hymn 8.90
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Nodhas
This hymn invokes Indra, the Vritra-slayer, to be present at all gatherings and accept prayers and libations. It celebrates him as the foremost giver of wealth, a true and unyielding ruler who subdues enemies. Worshippers seek his famous protection and abundant favors.
Hymn 8.91
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Nodhas
A maiden discovers Soma, pressing it for Indra while asking for wealth and unique blessings like hair growth on her father, field, and body. She also recalls Indra's cleansing of Apālā, creating a personal and hopeful plea for divine favor.
Hymn 8.92
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Others, Srutakaksu
This hymn is a vibrant, extensive praise for Indra, the all-conquering, hundred-powered god. It celebrates his Soma-drinking, Vritra-slaying prowess, and boundless generosity, repeatedly invoking him for protection, wealth, and victory in battles.
Hymn 8.93
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Others, Srutakaksu
A powerful ode to Indra, the hero who shattered fortresses and slew Vritra. It extols his supreme, irresistible might over gods and mortals, his creative acts, and his role as a generous giver of wealth. The hymn fervently seeks his aid and protection in all endeavors.
Hymn 8.94
Addressed to: The Maruts
Rishi: Others, Srutakaksu
This hymn extends an invitation to various deities—the Maruts, Ashvins, Mitra, Aryaman, Varuna, and Indra—to partake in the prepared Soma. It celebrates the Maruts’ pure strength and their cosmic role in separating heaven and earth, seeking their presence and favor at the ritual.
Hymn 8.95
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Others, Tirasci
Addressing Indra as a lover of hymns and king of all, this invocation calls him to drink Soma and bestow wealth, strength, and blessings. It repeatedly emphasizes the purity of the offerings and requests Indra's pure, decisive action against adversaries (Vritras) to secure spoils.
Hymn 8.96
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Others, Tirasci
An epic hymn celebrating Indra's unmatched cosmic power and heroic deeds, especially his Vritra-slaying that freed the waters. It depicts him as a formidable warrior, allied with the Maruts, whose thunderbolt strikes fear and ensures victory. The hymn urges singers to win his friendship and aid.
Hymn 8.97
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Others, Tirasci
This hymn is a fervent plea to Indra for power, wealth, and unwavering protection, distinguishing between the generous and the stingy. It asks Indra to be a close companion at the Soma offerings, emphasizing his unparalleled strength that surpasses all beings, and urges him never to turn away from his devotees.
Hymn 8.98
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Others, Tirasci
This hymn glorifies Indra as the supreme conqueror, creator of all, and establisher of cosmic order, who made the sun shine. It hails him as a beloved, victorious protector, greater than the worlds, and father-mother to mankind, invoking him for strength and a hero to lead in battle.
Hymn 8.99
Addressed to: Indra
Rishi: Others, Tirasci
This hymn invites Indra, the generous and fair-faced conqueror, to rejoice in the Soma offerings and draw near. It celebrates his overwhelming might that ensures victory over rivals and misfortunes, with Earth and Heaven following his power, seeking his constant protection and aids.
Hymn 8.100
Addressed to: Indra and Vak
Rishi: Others, Tirasci
This hymn features a dramatic assertion of Indra's supremacy, challenging those who doubt his existence while recounting his Vritra-slaying deeds. It then shifts to praise Vāk (Speech), Queen of the Gods, and concludes with a plea for Vishu and Dyaus to assist Indra in releasing the rivers.
Hymn 8.101
Addressed to: Diverse Gods
Rishi: Others, Tirasci
This hymn is a vibrant tapestry of invocations, primarily calling upon Mitra and Varuṇa for protection, wealth, and keen sight. It also weaves in prayers to the Nasatyas, Vayu, and the Sun for their bounty and greatness. It concludes with a powerful affirmation of Aditi, the divine mother, emphasizing her vital, unharmable nature.
Hymn 8.102
Addressed to: Agni
Rishi: Others, Tirasci
This hymn is a profound homage to Agni, the divine fire. It praises him as the youthful, radiant Lord of the house, essential priest, and messenger who brings vitality and abundance. The hymn repeatedly calls upon Agni to facilitate sacrifices, purify offerings, and ensure success, even accepting the most humble gifts from his devoted worshipers.
Hymn 8.103
Addressed to: Agni
Rishi: Others, Tirasci
This hymn extols Agni as the ultimate path-finder and generous giver. It celebrates his majesty, power to win wealth and fame, and his role as the divine priest who ensures prosperity. Worshipers adorn Agni with songs, trusting him to bestow heroic qualities, abundance, and blessings for future generations, inviting him to revel in their offerings.