Mythology & Folklore

Atharva Veda 2.27: A charm against an opponent in debate

by The Rishis of the Atharva Veda c. 1200–900 BCE (traditional; uncertain)

Translated by Ralph T. H. Griffith (1895–96) · From The Hymns of the Atharva-Veda (1895–96)

Mythology & Folklore

Let not the enemy win the cause! Strong and predominant art thou.
Refute mine adversary's speech. Render them dull and flat, O Plant.

The strong-winged bird discovered thee, the boar unearthed thee with his snout.
Refute mine adversary's speech. Render them dull and flat, O Plant.

Yea, Indra laid thee on his arm, to cast the Asuras to the ground.
Refute mine adversary's speech. Render them dull and flat, O Plant.

Indra devoured the Pātā plant that he might lay the Asuras low.
Refute mine adversary's speech! Render them dull and flat, O Plant.

With this I overcome my foes as Indra overcame the wolves.
Refute mine adversary's speech! Render them dull and flat, O Plant.

O Rudra, Lord of Healing Balms, dark-crested, skilful in thy work!— Refute mine adversary's speech. Render them dull and flat, O Plant.

Indra, defeat the speech of him who meets us with hostility.
Comfort us with thy power and might. Make me superior in debate.

MLA

Veda, The Rishis of the Atharva. “Atharva Veda 2.27: A charm against an opponent in debate.” Translated by Ralph T. H. Griffith. Poetry Codex, poetrycodex.com/poem/atharvaveda-rishis/56/.

Chicago

Veda, The Rishis of the Atharva. “Atharva Veda 2.27: A charm against an opponent in debate.” Translated by Ralph T. H. Griffith. Poetry Codex. https://poetrycodex.com/poem/atharvaveda-rishis/56/.

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