Mythology & Folklore
Atharva Veda 2.32: A charm against worms or bots in cows
Translated by Ralph T. H. Griffith (1895–96) · From The Hymns of the Atharva-Veda (1895–96)
Uprising let the Sun destroy, and when he sinketh, with his beams.
The Worms that live within the cow.
The four-eyed worm, of every shape, the variegated, and the white I break and crush the creature's ribs, and tear away its head besides.
Like Atri I destroy you, Worms! in Kanva's, Jamadagni's way: I bray and bruise the creeping things to pieces with Agastya's• spell.
Slain is the sovran of these Worms, yea, their controlling lord is slain: Slain is the Worm, his mother slain, brother and sister both are slain.
Slain are his ministers, and slain his followers and retinue: Yes, those that seemed the tiniest things, the Worms have all been put to death.
I break in pieces both thy horns wherewith thou pushest here and there: I cleave and rend the bag which holds the venom which is• stored in thee.
Cite this poem
MLA
Veda, The Rishis of the Atharva. “Atharva Veda 2.32: A charm against worms or bots in cows.” Translated by Ralph T. H. Griffith. Poetry Codex, poetrycodex.com/poem/atharvaveda-rishis/61/.
Chicago
Veda, The Rishis of the Atharva. “Atharva Veda 2.32: A charm against worms or bots in cows.” Translated by Ralph T. H. Griffith. Poetry Codex. https://poetrycodex.com/poem/atharvaveda-rishis/61/.
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More by The Rishis of the Atharva Veda
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- Atharva Veda 5.21: A hymn to the War-drum and various deities for victory
- Atharva Veda 6.98: Praise of Indra
- Atharva Veda 7.66: A prayer to Vāk
- Atharva Veda 19.7: A Prayer to the Lunar Mansions and other Powers for protection and prosperity