The Maruts, radiant and unconquered, bear a strength that cannot be overcome. Their generosity and might remain undefeated, and they fiercely oppose all enemies. With their arrows, they strike down those who threaten, protecting their devotees with unwavering power. In reverence, the people call upon Brahmanaspati, inviting him as the divine presence. They pray that the generous Maruts may draw near, and that Indra himself may manifest among them. It is to you alone, O son of strength, that mortals turn when they seek prosperity. May those who invoke you, O Maruts, be granted heroic power and swift, noble horses. As the sacred rites begin, Brahmanaspati is called to advance, accompanied by the goddess of Good Speech. The gods are asked to lead the sacrifice to the noble, generous one—the giver of abundance. To the one who bestows wealth upon the worshipper, lasting fame is assured. For such a benefactor, the people offer rich praises, heroic and blameless, along with abundant offerings. Now, Brahmanaspati intones the sacred hymn and chant, in which Indra, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, and all the gods have established their abodes. The people resolve to proclaim this auspicious, flawless hymn before the gatherings of the gods, urging all to heed these words so that all desirable blessings may come. Among mortals, who is it that, devoted to the gods, attains the favor of the one who spreads the sacred grass with praise? It is the generous one, who, established in his home, has built a lasting dwelling. Approach such power, for it even humbles kings and grants security to those who fear. For the wielder of the thunderbolt, there is neither opponent nor rival, no matter the wealth or vigor of others. The wise guardians—Varuna, Mitra, and Aryaman—protect the one who is favored by them, ensuring that no harm befalls him. Like strong arms, these gods shield the mortal from every danger, and he prospers, untouched by harm. They scatter dangers and enemies, and the kings who serve these gods strike down their foes and drive away all troubles. The path of the Ādityas, pursuers of truth, is smooth and free of obstacles; there is no stumbling for those who follow it. O men and Ādityas, you lead the sacrifice straight to its goal; may it reach you, a testament to our devotion. Such a mortal, unopposed, attains all treasures—wealth, offspring, and long life. The people wonder how best to offer praise to Mitra, Aryaman, and the vastness of Varuna. They resolve not to speak against or curse these divine ones, but to approach them with only good thoughts. Even one who gives only a modest gift should fear the guardian’s anger and refrain from harsh speech. Turning to Pūṣan, the people pray: “Clear the road for us, O Pūṣan, and remove all obstacles. Offspring of release, come and lead us forward.” They ask Pūṣan to drive away any who wish them harm, whether evil or wolfish, and to keep such dangers far from their path. Pūṣan is invoked to cast away thieves and lurking foes, restraining all double-dealing and ill-wishers. Now, the people choose Pūṣan’s guidance, by which he roused their ancestors. They ask him to grant all good fortune, to make them rich in pleasant treasures. “Lead us beyond obstacles, make our path easy and good, and grant us understanding here,” they pray. “Guide us to abundant pasture, keep us from weariness, and fill our vessel with plenty. We do not insult you, Pūṣan; we praise you with hymns and seek your gracious gifts.” Next, their words turn to Rudra, wise, mighty, and generous. They speak to him with words meant to please his heart. As Aditi cares for men and cattle, may she also care for their offspring, with Rudra’s blessing. As Mitra, Varuṇa, and Rudra are mindful of the people, so may all the gods be. They seek Rudra’s favor, the lord of song and wisdom, the healer with water and herbs. Rudra shines like the bright sun, like gold—he is the best among the gods, a true treasure. May he bring peace and prosperity for all: for the ploughman, the shepherd, for men and women, and for cattle. They call upon Soma to grant them wealth and heroic strength, that they may stand out among many. They pray that neither Soma’s hostility nor the enmity of others may harm them, inviting Indu to share in their rewards. Soma’s offspring dwell in the far realm of immortality, in the abode of truth, crowned and adorned; Soma knows them all. Finally, the people turn to Agni, radiant with the dawns of Vivasvat, the immortal reward. They call upon Agni, the beloved messenger and carrier of offerings, the charioteer of sacrifices. Together with the Aśvins and the dawn, Agni is asked to grant heroic strength and great fame. On this day, they choose Agni as their messenger—the generous and beloved one, radiant and smoke-bannered, the very glory of sacrifices as the dawns break. Thus, in reverence and devotion, the people invoke the gods, seeking their protection, guidance, and abundant blessings.