HYMN XXVIII Indra, Etc.

1 THERE where the broad-based stone raised on high to press the juices out,

O Indra, drink with eager thirst the droppings which the mortar sheds.

2 Where, like broad hips, to hold the juice the platters of the press are laid,

O Indra, drink with eager thirst the droppings which the mortar sheds.

3 There where the woman marks and leans the pestle's constant rise and fall,

O Indra, drink with eager thirst the droppings which the mortar sheds.

4 Where, as with reins to guide a horse, they bind the churning-staff with cords,

O Indra, drink with eager thirst the droppings which the mortar sheds.

5 If of a truth in every house, O Mortar thou art set for work,

Here give thou forth thy clearest sound, loud as the drum of conquerors.

6 O Sovran of the Forest, as the wind blows soft in front of thee,

Mortar, for Indra press thou forth the Soma juice that he may drink.

7 Best strength-givers, ye stretch wide jaws, O Sacrificial Implements,

Like two bay horses champing herbs.

8 Ye Sovrans of the Forest, both swift, with swift pressers press to-day

Sweet Soma juice for Indra's drink.

9 Take up in beakers what remains: the Soma on the filter pour,

and on the ox-hide set the dregs.