Atharva Veda · 195 of 724

HYMN XXVII

A charm to avert misfortune foreshown by the coming of a dove 1. Gods! whatsoe’er the Dove came hither seeking, sent to us as    the envoy of Destruction,   For that let us sing hymns and make atonement, Well be it with    our quadrupeds and bipeds! 2. Auspicious be the Dove that hath been sent us, a harmless bird,   O Gods, that seeks our dwelling!   May Agni, Sage, be pleased with our oblation, and may the    missile borne on wings avoid us. 3. Let not the arrow that hath wings distract us. Beside the fire-    place, on the hearth it settles.   May it bring welfare to our men and cattle: here let the Dove,    ye Gods, forbear to harm us.