Rig Veda

Book 9, Hymn VI. Soma Pavamana

1. SOMA, flow on with pleasant stream, a Bull devoted to the Gods,
Our Friend, unto the woollen sieve.

2 Pour hitherward, as Indra's Self, Indu, that gladdening stream of thine,
And send us coursers full of strength.

3 Flow to the filter hitherward, pouring that ancient gladdening juice,
Streaming forth power and high renown.

4 Hither the sparkling drops have flowed, like waters down a steep descent
They have reached Indra purified.

5 Whom, having passed the filter, ten dames cleanse, as ’twere a vigorous steed,
While he disports him in the wood,—

6 The steer-strong juice with milk pour forth, for feast and service of the Gods,
To him who bears away the draught.

7 Effused, the God flows onward with his stream to Indra, to the God,
So that his milk may strengthen him.

8 Soul of the sacrifice, the juice effused flows quickly on: he keeps
His ancient wisdom of a Sage.

9 So pouring forth, as Indra's Friend, strong drink, best Gladdener! for the feast,
Thou, even in secret, storest hymns.