1:19One MessageMany witnesses · one GOD
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Plain text of Rig Veda - Book The Tenth · Hymn XLVIII. God the Mighty Speaks

1 I was the first possessor of all precious gear: the wealth of every man I win and gather up.

On me as on a Protector living creatures call; I deal enjoyment to the man who offers gifts.

2 I am the stay and firm support of Atharvan: I brought forth kine to Trita from the Dragon's grasp.

I stripped the wrongdoers of their manly might, and gave the cattle-stalls to my servants.

3 For me hath the Maker forged the iron thunderbolt: in me the angels have centred intellectual power.

My sheen is like the sun's insufferably bright: men honour me as Lord for past and future deeds.

4 I won myself these herds of cattle, steeds and kine, and gold in ample store, with my destructive bolt.

I give full many a thousand to the worshipper, what time the offerings and the lauds have made me glad.

5 I am the Mighty: none ever wins my wealth from me; never at any time am I a thrall to death.

Pressing the offering, ask riches from me alone: ye, Purus, in my friendship shall not suffer harm.

6 These, breathing loud in fury, two and two, who caused the bolt of thunder to be brought to the fray,

The challengers, I struck with deadly weapon down: firm stand what words the Lord speaks to his worshippers.

7 This one by stronger might I conquered singly; yea, also two: shall three prevail against me?

Like many sheaves upon the floor I thrash them. How can my foes revile me?

8 Against the Gungus I made Atithigva strong, and kept him mid the folk like a conquering strength,

When I won glory in the great foe-slaying fight, in battle where Karanja fell, and Parnaya.

9 With food for mine enjoyment Sapya Nami came: he joined me as a friend of old in search of kine.

As I bestowed on him an arrow for the fight I made him worthy of the song and hymn of praise.

10 One of the two hath seen the offering within it; the Herdsman with the bone shows forth the other.

He, fain to fight the Bull whose horns were sharpened, stood fettered in the demon's ample region.

11 I never violate my own decree: those who serve me have been formed for auspicious vigour,

Unconquered and invincible for ever.