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Dhammapada · narration sample

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Rig Veda · 111 of 1027

Mandala 1: HYMN CXI. Ṛbhus.

1.WORKING with skill they wrought the lightly rolling car: they wrought the Bays who bear Indra and bring great gifts. The Ṛbhus for their Parents made life young again; and fashioned for the calf a mother by its side.

2.For sacrifice make for us active vital power for skill and wisdom food with noble progeny. Grant to our company this power most excellent, that with a family all-heroic we may dwell.

3.Do ye, O Ṛbhus, make prosperity for us, prosperity for car, ye Heroes, and for steed. Grant us prosperity victorious evermore, conquering foes in battle, strangers or akin.

4.Indra, the Ṛbhus’ Lord, I invocate for aid, the Ṛbhus, Vājas, Maruts to the Soma draught. Varuṇa, Mitra, both, yea, and the Aśvins Twain: let them speed us to wealth, wisdom, and victory.

5.May Ṛbhu send prosperity for battle, may Vāja conquering in the fight protect us. This prayer of ours may Varuṇa grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

Asked of Guide

Who are the Ṛbhus and why are they praised in this hymn?

The hymn names the Ṛbhus as skillful artisan-heroes who “wrought the lightly rolling car” and restored youth and life, making a calf find a mother. The singers praise them because their craftsmanship and creative power bring prosperity, victory, and renewed vitality to people and ritual offerings.

The worshippers ask the Ṛbhus to grant “active vital power” and prosperity for car, steed, and family, linking their favor to success in sacrifice and battle. This practical request matches other Rig Veda hymns where divine craftsmen like the Aśvins perform restorative miracles and secure well-being for worshippers.

Guide is the guide inside the Gnosis app, where every book on these shelves is free to read. Guide is the part you pay for — your guide has read all of them, and answers about the passage you’re actually on. Ask your guide your own question.