When inspiration stirred within me, I composed this hymn for Indra, the ancient and mighty one, in heartfelt praise. Just as voyagers in a boat call for rescue from distress, so do we call upon him, for he delivers us from peril and grants us safe passage. Indra’s vessel overflows with the sacred Svāhā, like a cup brimming with drink, as the beloved ones gather in joy. The Somas, radiant and exhilarating, circle Indra, moving in auspicious order, delighting him with their offerings. No deep river nor encircling mountain can confine Indra, the much-invoked. When urged by his companions, he shatters even the strongest barriers, breaking open the enclosures to reveal vast, cattle-rich lands for his people. In every contest and battle, may we call upon generous Indra, the foremost among men in winning the prize—he who listens to our pleas, who strikes down adversaries and secures riches for his faithful. Swiftly, the rivers Vipāś and Śutudrī hasten to the lap of the mountains, as horses released in joy, as two bright cows longing for their calf, their nourishing waters flowing forth. Spurred by Indra, they seek their course, racing toward the ocean like chariots, their waves swelling, each striving to surpass the other. We have come to the nurturing Sindhu and the wide, blessed Vipāś, who, like mothers caressing their calf, move together in harmony along the same channel. With their waters, we journey along the path shaped by the gods, the current unwavering and true. What, then, does the inspired priest seek from these rivers? O righteous and life-giving rivers, delight in my words offered for Soma. Come, even for a moment, to the great Sindhu whom I praise with lofty song—I, the son of Kuśika, seek your favor. It is Indra, armed with thunder, who has cleared our path. He struck down Vṛtra, the barrier of the rivers, and with Savitṛ’s guiding hand, we are led onward to the wide lands, impelled by the gods’ will. Let this heroic deed of Indra be ever remembered: when he split the serpent with his thunderbolt, the encircling foe was vanquished, and the eager waters rushed forward, free to flow. O singer, let not your word be in vain, for your praises have endured through generations. Accept our hymn, O poet; may no strength or favor turn away from you. O rivers, listen to Kārava, who has come from afar with his cart and chariot. Bow down, become easy to cross, and sink beneath our axles, that your streams may grant us safe passage. To you, Kārava, we also listen, as you approach with your cart and chariot. We bow down, yielding as a maiden to her beloved, ever welcoming your presence. If, with Indra as our guide, the Bharatas are to cross with their cattle and their company, let the current, set in motion, flow forth. We choose the good favor of those who are worthy of sacrifice. Indeed, the Bharatas have crossed with their cattle; the inspired one has shared the blessings of the rivers. Flow forth, generous ones, bestowing boons; fill your channels and prosper. Let your waves rise gently, O waters; release your bonds. Do not, by your force, bring harm or sorrow; let there be no misfortune or distress among us. Indra, breaker of barriers, has torn open the fortresses of the Dasa with his might. Compassionate and strong, he scattered the enemies and granted wealth, filling both heaven and earth as he grew in strength through prayer. For your sacrifice and power, Indra, I send forth this praise, adorned for immortality. You are lord among humans, among the gods, and among those who came before. Indra chose to shatter Vritra, the destroyer, striking down deceivers and the arrogant. He slew the obstructers in the forests and revealed the cows to those who sought them. Shining, Indra brought forth the days, conquering hostile armies with his weapons. He revealed the sign for Manu, the mighty, and found light for the great battle. Indra entered the praises and offerings, establishing many heroic deeds for mortals. He awakened noble thoughts in the worshipper and bestowed upon them radiant, pure forms. The mighty deeds of Indra are many and splendid; his works are abundant. By force he crushed the wicked, overcoming tricksters and foes with his power. In battle, Indra’s greatness opened a path for the gods. True lord and protector of people, his deeds are praised by sages in the house of Vivasvat, sung in hymns and songs. The mighty Indra, companion in strength and lord of light, has subdued earth and heaven; the wise and inspired rejoice in him. He subdued the waters, the sun, and the cow, the bringer of joy. He conquered golden wealth and, after slaying his enemies, brought forth noble forms. Indra stirred the plants and days, the trees and the midspace. He broke barriers and released speech, restraining the arrogant by his might. Let us call upon generous Indra, best among men, in this contest for the prize. Fierce and attentive to our pleas, may he slay the foes and win us wealth. Let the horses stand ready, yoked to the chariot; come as the wind, drawing near. Indra, drink the pressed Soma offered here with the sacred call, delighting in our devotion. I harness the swift horses to the chariot for the much-invoked one; let them run from all sides, bringing Indra to this sacrifice. Lead the strong, radiant horses here; you, mighty one, are self-sustaining. Let the red steeds graze and be released; their deeds are ever steadfast, day by day. With prayer, I yoke your prayer-guided horses, companions at the shared feast, swift and sure. Mount the firm, pleasant chariot, Indra, wise and knowing, and come to the Soma. Let not your strong, broad-backed horses be delayed by other worshippers. Come swiftly, that we may always delight you with pressed Somas. This Soma is for you; come near, Indra, most wise, with a good mind, and drink. In this sacrifice, seated on the sacred grass, receive this pressed juice within you. The sacred grass is spread for you, Indra; the Soma is pressed. The offerings are prepared for you and your horses. To you, mighty, many-formed one, and to the Maruts, these oblations are given. O men, for you the waters have approached the mountains; with Indra, they have made honeyed milk with the cows. With his coming, O lofty one, guard us graciously, wise and knowing, following the proper paths. Those who, O Indra, Maruts, and Soma, have strengthened you—your companions—together with them, eager, drink this Soma with Agni’s tongue, O Indra. Indra, drink with delight the pressed Soma, or drink it with Agni’s tongue, O worthy one; or accept the sacrifice from the hands of the priest, O mighty one, or from the hotar, enjoy the offerings of the ritual. Let us call upon generous Indra, the best among men, in this contest for the prize; the mighty one who listens for help in battles, who slays the foes and conquers wealth. Set forth this offering always, striving with messengers for gain; Indra has grown strong in every pressing, his great acts making him renowned.