Atharva Veda · 592 of 724

HYMN XI

HYMN XI 1. Fort-render, Lord of Wealth, dispelling foemen, Indra with    lightnings hath o'ercome the Dāsa.   Impelled by prayer and waxen great in body, he hath filled    earth and heaven, the bounteous Giver. 2. I stimulate this zeal, the Strong, the Hero, decking my song of    praise for thee Immortal.   O Indra, thou art equally the leader of heavenly hosts and    human generations. 3. Leading his band Indra encompassed Vritra; weak grew the wily    leader enchanters.   He who burns fierce in forests slaughtered Vyansa, and made    the milch-kine of nights apparent. 4. Indra, light-winner, days' creator, conquered, as guardian, hostile    bands with those who loved him.   For man the days' bright ensign he illumined, and found the    light for his great joy and gladness. 5. Forward to fiercely falling blows pressed Indra, hero-like doing    many hero exploits.   Those holy songs he taught the bard who praised him, and    widely spread these Dawns' resplendent colour. 6. They laud the mighty acts of him the mighty, the many glorious    deeds performed by Indra.   He in his strength, with all-surpassing prowess, through wond-    rous arts crushed the malignant Dasyus. 7. Lord of the brave, Indra who rules the people gave freedom to    the Gods by might and battle.   Wise singers glorify with chanted praises these his achievements    in Vivasvān's dwelling. 8. Excellent, conqueror, the victory-giver, the winner of the light    and godlike waters,   He who hath won this broad earth and this heaven,—in Indra    they rejoice who love devotions. 9. He gained possession of the Sun and horses; Indra obtained    the cow who feedeth many.   Treasure of gold he won; he smote the Dasyus and gave protec-    tion to the race of Aryas. 10. He took the plants and days for his possession; he gained the    forest trees and air's mid-region.   Vala he cleft, and chased away opponents: thus was he tamer    of the overweening. 11. Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in the fight    where spoil is gathered,   The Strong, who listens, who gives aid in battles, who slays the   Vritras, wins and gathers treasures.