Atharva Veda · 529 of 724

HYMN XX

A prayer for protection from death and misfortune 1. May Soma, Varuna the King, both Asvins, Yama and Pūshan    guard us well from Mrityu—   Death caused by men, which Indra-Agni, Dhātar, Brihaspati and   Savitar appointed. 2. All that the World’s Lord made, all that for creatures Prajāpati    and Mātarisvan fashioned,   All things within the quarters and their spaces, let all these be    my manifold defences. 3. That which the Gods bound on them when they battled for their    royal sway.   What Indra made his shield, may that protect us well on every    side, 4. My shield is Heaven and Earth, my shield is the bright Day, my    shield the Sun.   The Visva Devas made my shield. Let not misfortune fall on    me.