HYMN LXXVII. Maruts.

1. As with their voice from cloud they sprinkle treasure so are the wise man's liberal sacrifices.

I praise their Company that merits worship as the good Martits' priest to pay them honour.

2 The youths have wrought their ornaments for glory through many nights,-this noble band of Maruts.

Like stags the Sons of Dyatis have striven onward, the Sons of Aditi grown strong like pillars.

3 They who extend beyond the earth and heaven, by their own mass, as from the cloud spreads Surya;

Like mighty Heroes covetous of glory, like heavenly gallants who destroy the wicked.

4 When ye come nigh, as in the depth of waters, the earth is loosened, as it were, and shaken.

This your all-feedin sacrifice approaches: come all united, fraught, as 'twere with viands.

5 Ye are like horses fastened to the chariot poles, luminous with your beams, with splendour as at dawn;

Like self-bright falcons, punishers of wicked men, like hovering birds urged forward, scattering rain around.

6 When ye come forth, O Maruts, from the distance, from the great treasury of rich possessions,

Knowing, O Vasus, boons that should be granted, even from afar drive back the men who hate us.

7 He who, engaged in the rite's final duty brings, as a man, oblation to the Maruts,

Wins him life's wealthy fulness, blest with heroes: he shall be present, too, where Gods drink Soma.

8 For these are helps adored at sacrifices, bringing good fortune by their name Adityas.

Speeding on cars let them protect our praises, delighting in our sacrifice and worship.