King Varuṇa, the majestic guardian of cosmic order, has fashioned a vast path for the sun to traverse, guiding its radiant journey across the heavens. Though he leaves no footprints, his silent marks direct all beings, and his words imprint themselves upon the hearts of mortals. O King Varuṇa, you possess a hundred healers, a thousand, whose benevolence is deep and expansive. We beseech you to drive misfortune far from us, and release us from any wrongdoing that may bind us. As night falls, the stars gleam high above, fixed in their places, visible to all. Yet, by day, their whereabouts remain a mystery. The laws set by Varuṇa are unwavering; the moon, too, shines and travels by night, obedient to his command. With reverence, we approach Varuṇa in prayer, honoring him with offerings, and entreat him to be mindful and free from anger. O wide-famed Varuṇa, do not take away our life. Day and night, people claim, “This is mine,” but a sign appears within the heart, a reminder of Varuṇa’s presence. Śunahśepa, who was bound and seized, is remembered; may King Varuṇa grant him release. Śunahśepa was tied to three posts for the son of Aditi; let the knowing and faultless Varuṇa free him from his bonds. With humility, we ask Varuṇa to remove his anger. Through sacrifices and offerings, we seek his forgiveness for the wrongs we have committed. As lord and wise king, may he pardon our faults. Release us, O Varuṇa, from the highest bond, loosen the lowest and the middle, so that, under your law, O Āditya, we may be guiltless and belong to Aditi. Every day, O Varuṇa, we examine your law, as both people and gods do. Do not punish us for offenses or transgressions, nor for anger at one who repents. May your gracious mind, swift as a chariot and yoked like a horse, come to us, that we may reach you with our hymns. Our angers dissipate, seeking prosperity, like birds returning to their nest. When shall we, O Varuṇa, perform the service that brings the glory of kingship, honoring you, the gracious and far-seeing lord? That reward, like a shared prize, is sought by those steadfast in their vows and worship. Varuṇa knows the path of birds flying through the sky, and the ships crossing the ocean. He, firm in his vow, knows the twelve months, full of offspring, and what is born in each. He knows the path of the wind, vast and lofty, and those who dwell above. Varuṇa, steadfast in vow, has taken his seat among the dwellings, bringing good counsel and sovereignty. From there, the wise one beholds all wonders—what has been done and what is yet to come. May the wise Āditya lead us daily on the good path, carrying us safely through our lifespans. Varuṇa, adorned in a golden mantle, wears his shining robe, and his spies are stationed all around. No one who seeks harm, no deceitful person, no hostile force can overcome this god. He who among men has made unequaled fame—may that greatness dwell within us. My thoughts go forth, like cows seeking their pasture, longing for the far-seeing Varuṇa. Let us speak together again, from where my honey-bearing words arise, as a priest to one who is dear. May I see the all-seeing one, standing upon his chariot; may he accept my songs. Hear my call, O Varuṇa, and be gracious today; the one seeking help turns to you. You, wise one, rule over all—heaven and earth; hear us in our journey. Release for us the highest bond, and the middle one, O Cṛta; let the lowest remain for life. For you, O Lord of strength, the garments are prepared, O master of nourishment; offer this sacrifice for us. Let the worthy Hotar, ever youthful, sit with us and our hymns; O Agni, with heavenly speech. The father offers for the son, for protection; the friend, worthy of friendship. Let Varuṇa, Mitra, and Aryaman, O righteous ones, sit upon our sacred grass as men do. Rejoice in our ancient Hotar and our friendship; listen now to these songs. Even with perpetual offspring, we worship each god; the offering is kindled in you. May the lord of the people, the delightful and worthy Hotar, be dear to us; we are dear to our own Agnis. For our own Agnis, the gods have granted the prize; we honor our own Agnis. Let mutual praises resound among both immortals and mortals. With all the Agnis, O Agni, with all the gods, offer this sacrifice, this speech; grant us strength and glory. Like a horse of splendid strength, we praise you, Agni, with reverence, sovereign among the sacrifices.