Book 20: Hymn 11
HYMN XI
1Fort-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.
2I 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.
3Leading 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.
4Indra, 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. p. 271
5Forward 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.
6They 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.
7Lord 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.
8Excellent, 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.
9He 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.
10He 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.
11Call 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.