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Dhammapada · narration sample

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Rig Veda · 340 of 1027

Mandala 4: HYMN XLIV. Aśvins.

1.WE will invoke this day your car, far-spreading, O Aśvins, even the gathering, of the sunlight,— Car praised in hymns, most ample, rich in treasure, fitted with seats, the car that beareth Sūrya.

2.Aśvins, ye gained that glory by your Godhead, ye Sons of Heaven, by your own might and power. Food followeth close upon your bright appearing when stately horses in your chariot draw you.

3.Who bringeth you to-day for help with offered oblation, or with hymns to drink the juices? Who, for the sacrifice’s ancient lover, turneth you hither, Aśvins, offering homage?

4.Borne on your golden car, ye omnipresent! come to this sacrifice of ours, Nāsatyas. Drink of the pleasant liquor of the Soma give riches to the people who adore you.

5.Come hitherward to us from earth, from heaven, borne on your golden chariot rolling lightly. Suffer not other worshippers to stay you here are ye bound by earlier bonds of friendship.

6.Now for us both, mete out, O Wonder-Workers, riches exceeding great with store of heroes, Because the men have sent you praise, O Aśvins, and Ajamīlhas come to the laudation.

7.Whene’er I gratified you here together, your grace was given us, O ye rich in booty. Protect, ye Twain, the singer of your praises: to you, Nāsatyas, is my wish directed.

Asked of Guide

Why do the Aśvins come in a golden car to the sacrifice?

The hymn says the Aśvins arrive in a “golden car” because their coming brings sunlight, riches and healing; the car is the vehicle that “beareth Sūrya” and carries their omnipresent power into the ritual. The poet calls them “Wonder-Workers” and “Nāsatyas,” and insists their presence causes food, wealth, and heroes to follow, so the car is the visible sign of their beneficence.

The congregation summons them with oblation and hymns—“Drink of the pleasant liquor of the Soma”—and the ritual invitation secures their grace and protection for the community. This mirrors other Vedic hymns where gods descend to partake of sacrifice; compare Mandala 1 where deities accept Soma and reward worshippers.

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