Religion
Atharva Veda 2.35: Expiation for an imperfectly performed sacrifice
Translated by Ralph T. H. Griffith (1895–96) · From The Hymns of the Atharva-Veda (1895–96)
We who enjoying it have grown no richer, for whom the sacred altar-fires have sorrowed, We who compounded with deficient worship,—may Visvakarman make our service prosper.
Rishis have called the sacrifice's patron amerced through sin, sorrowing for his offspring.
Those drops of meath whereof the missed enjoyment,—may Visvakarman with those drops unite us.
Regarding niggard churls as Soma-drinkers, skilful in sacrifice, weak at the meeting, Whatever sin the captive hath committed, do thou for weal release him, Visvakarman!
Awful are Rishis: unto them be homage, and to their eye and truthfulness of spirit!
Loud homage to Brihaspati, O mighty! Homage to thee, O Visvakarman! Guard us.
The eye of sacrifice, source, and beginning—with voice, ear, spirit unto him I offer.
To this our sacrifice wrought by Visvakarman may the Gods come gracious and kindly-hearted.
Cite this poem
MLA
Veda, The Rishis of the Atharva. “Atharva Veda 2.35: Expiation for an imperfectly performed sacrifice.” Translated by Ralph T. H. Griffith. Poetry Codex, poetrycodex.com/poem/atharvaveda-rishis/63/.
Chicago
Veda, The Rishis of the Atharva. “Atharva Veda 2.35: Expiation for an imperfectly performed sacrifice.” Translated by Ralph T. H. Griffith. Poetry Codex. https://poetrycodex.com/poem/atharvaveda-rishis/63/.
Read this poem with the Codex →
More by The Rishis of the Atharva Veda
- Atharva Veda 3.2: A rifaccimento or recension of I
- Atharva Veda 6.11: An epithalamian charm to ensure the birth of a boy
- Atharva Veda 6.119: A prayer for release from debts incurred without intention of payment
- Atharva Veda 7.87: A prayer to Rudra as Agni
- Atharva Veda 19.28: A charm for the destruction of enemies