For the sake of glory, fame, heroic protection, skill, and wisdom, the sages called upon the divine Ashvins. Whenever the Ashvins, with gracious thoughts or gentle words, sat in the womb of their father, their presence was sought and revered. No matter where the Ashvins might dwell—be it the farthest reaches of the heavens, the radiant realms above, or even in a house built upon the sea—their devotees called out to them, inviting them to come. Whether the Ashvins wished to join the sacrifice prepared for Manu or awaken at the call of the Kāṇva, all the gods were invoked together: Brihaspati, Indra, Vishnu, and the Ashvins, with strong and heartfelt praise. The Ashvins, wise and of good counsel, were honored in the household, their friendship among the gods celebrated and cherished. Upon these radiant ones rested the sacrifices and offerings, for by their own powers they drank the sweet Soma at the sacred rites. Whether called from afar that day, or recognized as the bestowers of swift horses, whether dwelling among the Druhyus, Turvashas, or Yadus, the Ashvins were summoned to come. Whether flying through the midspace, traversing both worlds, or standing in their chariot by their own might, the Ashvins were invited to draw near. Amidst these invocations, Agni was also praised, the guardian of vows among mortals, ever worthy of honor at the sacrifice. Renowned and powerful in assemblies, Agni was the charioteer of rituals, guiding the sacred proceedings. As Jātavedas, Agni was implored to drive away enemies and repel hostile, godless forces. Agni, even when close, would not carry the sacrifice of the mortal enemy. Mortals honored his many names, and the wise called upon him for help, invoking Agni with songs of praise. To Agni, the mind of the devotee, like a calf seeking its mother, rose from the highest seat of thought, yearning for his presence. Agni, friendly in many places and ruler over all peoples, was called upon in battle, the bestower of strength and splendid riches in contests. Ancient and ever-new, Agni was praised as the Hotar at sacrifices, fulfilling his own nature and granting good fortune. Then, Indra was invoked, stirred by the exhilarating draught, the most powerful, who with this strength struck down the restrainer. For this mighty deed, Indra was sought. With this same power, Indra shook the ten-headed Adhrigu, the trembling one, the singer of sweet songs, and reached the ocean—again, for this, he was sought. Indra set in motion the great rivers, like chariots, to travel the path of truth. Praise was offered to him, pure and clarified like butter, so that he might grant his favor, for with such praise Indra quickly increased in strength. Hymns flowed to him like the ocean, and with all his aids, Indra’s might grew ever greater. He, the god invoked from afar for friendship, spread rain from the sky, and his strength increased. His rays shone brighter, and the thunderbolt in his hand grew more powerful; like the sun, he expanded the two worlds. When a thousand buffaloes grew strong, Indra’s great power was truly magnified. With the rays of the sun, Indra destroyed his foes; Agni, like fire in the forest, grew in strength. The hymn, ever new and accompanied by the seasons, was offered in worship, beloved by many and measuring out praise. The divine embryo of sacrifice continually purified the will, and hymns measured out Indra’s glory. Indra, though alone, spread wide the space for the drinking of Soma, measuring out the eastern expanse like a craftsman for the presser. The inspired ones, bearers of hymns, gladdened Indra, flowing to him like clarified butter, where truth resides. Aditi, sovereign of the sun, produced a hymn for Indra, and many-praised were the aids found where truth is. Agni was invoked for help and praise, and the divine steeds of truth were unwavering. Whether Indra delighted in Soma with Vishnu, or with Trita Āptya, or with the Maruts in joyful company, or rejoiced on the distant ocean, he was called to be an ally in battle. Indra, mighty and the strength of the pressing priest, was honored with hymns and the drops of Soma. To each god, and especially Indra for help, songs were sung, and the sacrifice was made ready for Turvaṇa. With sacrifices and Soma, the worshippers magnified Indra with offerings. Great were Indra’s guidances, and many his praises; all treasures were bestowed upon the devotee. For the slaying of Vṛtra, the gods placed Indra at the forefront, and the singers invoked him for strength.