DECADE V Indra and others

1. I Hear, as though 'twere close at hand, the cracking of the whips they hold:

They gather splendour on their way.

2. Indra, these friends of ours, supplied with Soma, wait and look to thee

As men with fodder to the herd.

3. Before his hot displeasure all the peoples, all the men bow down,

As rivers bow them to the sea.

4. We choose unto ourselves that high protection of the mighty Gods,

That it may help and succour us.

5. O Brahmanaspati, make thou Kakshivan Ausija a loud

Chanter of flowing Soma juice!

6. Much honoured with libations may the Vritra-slayer watch for us:

May Sakra listen to our prayer

7. Send us this day, God Savitar, prosperity with progeny

Drive thou the evil dream away!

8. Where is that ever-youthful Steer, strong-necked and never yet bent down?

What Brahman ministers to him?

9. There where the mountains downward slope, there at the meeting of the streams

The Sage was manifest by song.

10. Praise Indra whom our songs must laud, sole sovran of mankind, the chief

Most liberal who controlleth men