Atharva Veda

The Essence of Atharvaveda

‍The fourth veda is the Atharvaveda. The word 'Tharva' means fickle or unsteady. Therefore, the word "Atharva" means that which is unwavering, unchanging or steady. This is beautifully said in sanskrit as follows THARVA GATI KARMAA NA THARVA ITI ATHARVA |

‍The philosophy of Yoga says:YOGASH CHITTA VRITTI NIRODHAH | i.e. controlling the fickle impulses of the mind and consequently the senses is 'yoga'. The Gita reiterates that when the mind is free from impure thoughts,it becomes steady and the person becomes resolute or 'Sthita-Pragya'. The term "Atharva" therefore refers to the positive moulding of one’s personality by controlling our senses and steadying the thought processes. The 'Atharvaveda' speaks comprehensively on a wide ranging subjects Social structure, Yoga, the human anatomy and different ailments it suffers from, spirituality and of course religion apart from many other important subjects. This knowledge is of immense value to humanity and is hence worth bringing into practice.

The Atharvaveda is a fusion of prose and poetry. Valuable information related to Ayurveda finds mention here, and for this reason Ayurveda is also considered to be the Upaveda (Sub-Veda) of Atharvaveda.

Brahmanas come second only to Vedas in importance. Brahmanas are categorised into 3 types i.e. Brahmana, Aranyaka and Upanishads. Scholars are of the view that they symbolizes the three ashrams-Grihastha, Vaanprashtha and Sanyas . Gopath- the only Brahmana text of Atharvaveda is very famous.Gopath is classified into 2 sections(1) Purvardha {first half} (2) Uttarardha {second half}.

‍The Purvardha comprises a number of discourses while the Uttarardha comprises critical analysis of rituals, etc. One does not come across any Aranyaka text of the Atharvaveda but there are a number of Upanishads.The prominent upanishads of Atharvaveda are Mundak, Mandukya, Prashna and Nrisinhapini. The Muktikopanishad speaks of 93 Upanishads of Atharvaveda.

Chapter 1:

(1) VACHASPATIRNI YACHCHHUTA

-------------(1/3, Atharvaveda)

May the scholars (also) become disciplined!
People who lead disciplined lives accomplish all their tasks easily and achieve success in whatever endeavours they undertake. Quite naturally, common people get inspiration from them and try to emulate them.

(2) SAM SHRUTEN GAMEMAHIMAA SHRUTEN VI RAADHISHI |

-------------(1/4, Atharvaveda)

May we all become knowledgeable and never detest knowledge!
'Vidya' can only be attained from a Guru. One, who teaches and imparts knowledge properly to his disciple is an ideal guru. He, who acquires knowledge and then utilizes it in his day to day life is worthy of being called a knowledgeable one. Knowledge not only helps us gain material success but it also enhances our spiritual growth. Therefore, we should always try to acquire as much knowledge as possible but at the same time we should be careful not to let pseudo-knowledge influence us. Knowledge liberates us from all kinds of bondages and miseries.

(3) APSWANTAR MRITAMAPSU BHESHAJAM |

-------------(4/4 Atharvaveda)

Water is the elixir of life, water contain medicines!
Water is an abject necessity for any kind of life to exist. A man can sustain himself without food for few days but he can not live without water for a day. In this particular 'richa' Water has most appropriately been compared to 'ambrosia' because it purifies the body from all kinds of toxins and gives new life. Water also possesses medicinal properties. It frees the body from different 'doshas' (ailments) and is hence known as Bheshagya- which purifies the body from all kinds of impurities.

(4) SHAM MEIM CHATURBHYAA ANGEBHYAH SHAMASTU TANVE MAM |

-------------(12/4 Atharvaveda)

May my four organs be free from ailments! May my entire body be healthy and strong!
The body should be sound and healthy because only then we can have a healthy mind. An unhealthy body can never enjoy happiness. Therefore one should strive to maintain good health by taking balanced diet and exercising regularly.

(5) ADAARASRID BHAVATU |

-------------(20/1, Atharvaveda)

May there be nobody to create a rift between us!
War results from the clash of thoughts and conflict of ideas. The human tendency to dominate each other inevitably leads to rifts and animosity. Success, peace and prosperity will always remain elusive as long as there is 'discord' but where there is 'unity' perfect harmony prevails there and nobody would dare to attack such a place.

(6) BRAHMANASPATE ABHI RASHTRAYA VARDHYA |

-------------(29/1, Atharvaveda)

O Scholar! Work for the welfare of the nation!
The nation can grow and prosper only if the population is healthy and strong both physically and morally. Enhancement of individual growth and success shall unequivocally lead to national prosperity. Therefore, people should perform only those deeds which facilitate the development and progress of the nation. It is the duty of every individual to dedicate himself for the and advancement of the country.

(7) YA AASHAA NAAMAA SHAAPAALAASH CHATVAARA STHAN DEVAAH |
TE NO NIRRITYAAH PAASHEBHYO MUCHATAAN HASO ANHASAH ||

-------------(31/3, Atharvaveda)

O Dikpaals! the Lords of four directions! Liberate us from the bondages of failures, degradations and all kinds of sin!
Just like the four main directions (North, South, East and West) the body possess four openings or doors- the East door is Mouth, the West door is Rectum, the North door is Head while the South door is Private part.
For the body to perform to the optimum level it is necessary that all the doors work perfectly.
The "nutritions" enter the body through the East entrance-mouth and the waste is released from the body through the west door- rectum. Both these functions of the body are essential for good health. The 'Jivatma' enters the body through the North door- Head and gets liberated from the bondages of life by becoming enlightened. Similarly, the southern door is the private part which is unfortunately the most abused organ in the modern times due to unrestrained sexual indulgence. The richa stresses on the importance of self control which implies that one who utilizes these doors in a restrained way becomes noble but one who misuses them ends up in misery.

(8) VAACHAA VADAAMI MADHUMAD BHUYAASAM MADHU SANDRISHAH |

-------------(34/3, Atharvaveda)

I speak 'sweetly' with the desire of becoming the very epitome of 'sweetness'!
This sukta of Atharvaveda speak of 'Madhu Vidya', which states that the world is sweet like honey but only when we look at it from the positive point of view. To the jaundiced eye the world will certainly appear yellow. Everything changes with the change in attitude. If we are good to people that goodness is reciprocated in the same manner but if we are bad to them then we will most obviously be paid in the same coin.
This richa implies that everybody should try to free himself from the negative qualities like hatred, jealousy and wickedness. Contemplating and meditating on the 'real-self' accelerates this process of self-development and makes liberation possible.
This richa also implies that every individual's behaviour should be such that he befriends one and all. The sweetness and pleasantness of personality should be evident in his actions and thoughts. This will help in establishing peace and happiness all round and lead to the feeling of universal brotherhood.

Chapter 2:

(9) KSHATRENAAGNE SWENA SAM RABHASVA MITRENAAGNE MITRADHAA YATASVA |
SAJAATAANAAM MADHYAMESHTHAA RAAJAAMAGNE VIHAVYO DEEDIHEEHA |

-------------(2/4,Atharvaveda)

O Agni! May I become more enthusiastic by the virtue of my own efforts! May I be friendly with friends! May I earn the respect of my community and be offered the seat of honour in the gathering of my community! May I be honored by scholars!
This richa inspires us to work incessantly for the enhancement of our capabilities. We should always be ready to work diligently. Cordial relationships with friends help us to improve our own capabilities. Our conduct should be such that we earn the respect not only in our own community but also be honoured scholars. The person who does so is blessed with success and prosperity.

(10) VISHWA HYAGNE DURITA TAR |

-------------(6/5, Atharvaveda)

O! Agni! Surmount all the evil tendencies! This particular richa clearly stresses upon the importance of virtuous living free from any kind of sinful tendencies. Therefore, we should abstain from violence, debauchery, evil deeds, sensual-attachment, hatred, anger and ego. We should constantly strive to become purer. Renouncing of such evil helps in the attainment of prosperity and success.

(11) SHAPTAARAMETU SHAPATHO YAH SUHAARTA TENA NAH SAHA |

-------------(7/5, Atharvaveda)

May the curses rebound to the originator!
May we befriend only those who are kind and polite.
The mind is a double edged sword. It has immense power and it is capable of accomplishing both useful and destructive feats. Curses are negative outbursts which backfire and hit the very person who commits the deplorable act.
One, whose mind is stable, pure and chaste is strong mentally as well as morally. Therefore, one should only befriend such people who are kind-hearted, polite and virtuous.

(12) YASHCHAKAAR SA NISHKARAT |

-------------(9/5,Atharvaveda)

He, who works incessantly, accomplishes any task that he undertakes!
One who works assiduously and wholeheartedly without bothering about the results shall definitely accomplish his tasks.
This also has an added advantage in the form of professional perfection, as constant practice proves to be of great help in fine tuning his capabilities.

(13) PAASHE SA BADDHO DURITE NI YUJYATAAM YO ASMAAKAM MANA IDAM HINASTI |

-------------(12/2, Atharvaveda).

One, who pollutes the mind, is fastened by the bondages of 'sin'! May he be kept in total control!
This richa says that people who pollute our mind with their impure and sinful thoughts must be kept in check. Bad thoughts pollute our mind and it is necessary that we discipline it by practicing self-control. The sinner should be punished severely so that he does not dare repeat his crime.

(14) AYAA YAMASYA SAADANAM AGNIDUTO ARANKRITAH |

-------------(12/7,Atharvaveda)

Be a messenger of Agni and become an accomplished soul! Go to 'Yama's' place!
This 'richa' praises the virtues of fearlessness. A truly fearless person embraces even death without any kind of hesitation. One fears death because of ignorance but when the 'flame of knowledge' is enkindled in the mind then the 'fear of death' ceases to exist. He, who controls his senses and 'sacrifices' himself to the 'fire of knowledge' does not have the slightest trepidation and fear. Those, who indulge excessively in material and sensual pleasures approach death with fear and inevitably fall prey to the wrath of death.
Therefore, it is evident that there is a differences in the death of the 'ignorant' and that of a 'knowledgeable' person.

(15)PARIDANVAASO ADHITHAA SWASTAYE ABHURGRISHTI NAAMABHI SHASTIPAA U |
SHATAM CHA JEEVA SHARADAHA PURUCHI KAYASCHA ROSHMUPASAMVYAYASVA ||

-------------(13/3, Atharvaveda)

Wear this attire for your own welfare! Thou are the protector of humans from destruction! May you live like this for one hundred years 'weaving' the clothes of 'Wealth' and 'Nourishment'!
This particular 'richa' stresses upon the importance of good health and wealth in a person’s life. It exhorts us to weave the 'cloth' of life with the help of good health and wealth. Wearing such attire shall bless us with a long life and save us from destruction. One, who wears the 'cloth' intricately woven with threads of 'comfort', 'good-health' and 'wealth' becomes free from all kind of illness, misery and even destruction. Such a man is always blessed with a long, healthy and prosperous life.

(16) YATHAABHUTAM CHA BHAVYAM CHA NA VIBHEETO NA RISHYATAH| EVAA MEIN PRAANA MAA VIBHEH |

-------------(15/6, Atharvaveda)

The 'Past' and the 'Future', being fearless, are indestructible! In the same way, O Life! Be free from fear.
A man is not scared of the 'Past' i.e. bygone days, no matter how bitter they might have been. Similarly, the 'Future'-which is uncertain and still to come- also does not scare a man. But, in comparison, the Present is capable of scarring a man to death. The past is 'truth' because events have already happened and they cannot be questioned. One, who takes lessons from his past and improves himself need not fear the future. Truth is eternal and prevails ultimately. So, in order to accomplish his duties fearlessly, a man must take the refuge of 'Truth'. This becomes all the more important considering the fact that Fearlessness leads to immortality.

(17) YATHAA JEEVAA ADITE RUPASTHE PRAANA APAANAABHYAAM GUPITAH SHATAM HIMAAH|

-------------(28/4,Atharvaveda)

......So that you are blessed with 'Prana' and 'Apana'(types of air movement in our body) and live for hundred years being protected by the 'motherland'.
There are different types of air movement within our body. The air that we inhale through our nostrils is called Prana and it's movement is restricted in the upper half of the body (until the navel) and the air moving in the lower half i.e. below the navel is known as Apana. When prana is enhanced with the help of Pranayam, it exerts a good effect even on the Apana and as a result all the function of 'apana' are performed perfectly. Therefore, one should try to enhance the strength of prana and apana through Yoga sadhana for a long and healthy life.

Chapter 3:

(18) TE ADHARANCHAH PRA PALVATAAM CHHINNA NAURIVA BANDHANAAT |
NA VAIBAADHA PRANUTTANAAMA PUNARASTI NIVARTANAM |

-------------(6/7, Atharvaveda)

May 'they' be swept aside from the path of immorality alike an anchorless boat! Notoriously troublesome people never return to the mainstream!
People, who inflict pain upon others, end up in misery and reach the nadir with dismal chances of regaining their past honour. Those who harass and ostracize others can never ever think of reaching a higher echelon of life. Therefore, we should always think of the welfare of others’ so that our own progress becomes possible.

(19) SAM VO MANAANSI SAM VRATAA SAMAAKUTIRNA SAAMASI |
AMI YE VIVRATAA STHAN TAANTAH SAM NABHAYAAMASI||

-------------(10/5,Atharvaveda)

May your mind be infused with 'one' thought (concentration of mind)! May every action of yours be embellished by 'one' thought! May your resolution be 'one'. You, who are acting to the contrary, your disposition shall have opposite orientation.
May your thoughts, resolution and actions unify and become one so that 'unity' becomes possible. Human being is a social animal and cannot exist in isolation. His growth and progress depends upon his ability to work in a well coordinated manner with fellow citizens. This is the reason why this 'richa' exhorts us to bring unison of thoughts, words and deeds because it is of prime importance for the welfare of society as well as of a nation.

(20) EMAAMAGNE SHARANIM MIMRISHO NO YAMDHWAANAMA GAMAH DURAM |
SHUNAM NO ASTU PRAPANO VIKRAYASHCHA PRATIPANAH FALINAM MAA
KRINOTU ||
IDAM HAVYAM SAMVIDAANI JUSHETHAAM SHUNAM NO ASTU CHARITAM UTTHITAM CHA ||

-------------(15/4,Atharvaveda)

O Agni! Forgive us for 'this' error. May our dealings be profitable in the entire 'area' under our control! May each dealing of mine be profitable! May thou partake of this 'Havi'(offerings).May we 'rise' and our conduct be fruitful.
Here, 'Agnidev' is prayed to forgive any improper means that might have been committed either advertently or inadvertently in order to earn profits while conducting transactions. We should abstain from miserliness, cruelty, gambling and misconduct while doing business.

(21) KSHINAAMI BRAHMANAAMITRA AYUNNAYAAMI SWAANAHAM |

-------------(19/3,Atharvaveda)

I subdue enemies with the help of my 'knowledge' and 'enlighten' near and dear ones!
'Knowledge' is the most powerful tool not only for one's own enlightenment but also for the whole community. At the same time, it acts as a very effective weapon while confronting 'enemies'.

(22) SHATA HASTA SAMAAHAAR SAHASTRAHASTA SAM KIR|
KRITASYA KAARYASYA CHAHE SFAATIM SAMAAVAH ||

-------------(24/5,Atharvaveda)

O man! May you earn with your 'One hundred hands' and donate with 'Thousand hands'. May you thus set new standard for your duties!
This 'richa' stresses the importance of hard-work and the virtues of donation. Society cannot progress unless each citizen make his contribution and performs his duties. Therefore, this richa exhorts us to become prosperous by working hard and then donating generously.

(23) SAHRIDAYAM SAAMMANASYAM AVIDVESHAM KRINOMI VAH |
ANYO ATYAMABHI HARYAT VATSAM JAATAMI VADHNYA ||

-------------(30/1,Atharvaveda)

I am 'kind', 'understanding' and 'amicable' to you. May you all love each other just as a cow loves her newborn calf.
Our heart should be full of compassion and free from negative qualities like hatred, hostility and jealousy. Love breeds love and is returned manifold. Peace, an abject necessity for prosperity, prevails everywhere. This 'richa' exhorts us to love our fellow beings just like the cow loves her newborn calf.

(24) VYAARTYA PAVAMAANO VI SHAKRAH PAAPA KRITYAYAA |

A person, whose heart is pure, remains untouched by 'pain' just as an assiduous person remains aloof from sinful deeds.
Abstinence from sinful deeds not only ensures freedom from 'pains' but it also blesses us with good health and a long life. Sin leads to certain downfall and hence we should abstain from sinful deeds. Now explaining what sin and virtue are, this 'richa' says that any thought, speech or deed causing harms to other is 'sin' while anything which is beneficial for others... gives joy to others is 'virtue'. One should not only abstain from 'sinful-deeds' but also from 'sinful- speech' and 'sinful-thought'. By so doing we pave our way to success and peace.

Chapter 4:

(25) YATSANYAMO NA VI YAMO YANNA SANYAMAH |

-------------(3/7,Atharvaveda)

That, which has been already restrained should not be further suppressed ( it's not of much use), but one should try to control that which remains to be restrained!
Control over all the senses is good but once they have been controlled one should not try to suppress them unnaturally because then they start raising their ugly heads with renewed vigour. This richa advocates self control but at the same time it warns us about the dangers of forced and 'artificial self control'. Rather, it advises us to keep strict vigil on the already controlled senses so that they do not get an opportunity to raise their ugly heads. Pure diet is of great help in this regard i.e. in controlling sensual desires and anger.

(26) OTSURYA MANYAANT SWAAPAA VYUSHAM JAAGRITAA DAHAM INDRA IVAARISHTO AKSHITAH |

-------------(5/7,Atharvaveda)

Let others sleep until sunrise but May I, like a 'brave','indestructible' and 'undecaying' being, remain awake!
This particular 'richa' explains how the rulers should behave. The 'protector'(king) should remain alert for the welfare of his subject so that they live in peace and sleep peacefully.

(27) BHUTO BHUTESHU PAYAAA DADHAATI SA BHUTAANAAMAADHI
PATIRBABHUVA |

-------------(8/1,Atharvaveda)

He, who acquires an impressive personality (by his efforts) and donates 'milk', etc, to his subjects becomes their Lord!
This 'richa' implies that one, who wishes well of others and works for their welfare, quite naturally becomes the ruler of the masses.

(28) ANADNGWA NINDRAH SA PASHUBHYO VI CHASHTE TRAYAAM CHHAKRO VI MIMEETE ADHVANAH BHUTAM BHAVISHYADBHAVANAA DUHAANASARVA DEVAANAAM CHARATI VRATAANI |

Indra, like an able 'herdsman' looks after the 'animals'! This capable Lord treads on all the three paths- Satva, Rajas and Tama... is the creator of matters of the past, present and future!
In this 'richa' Indra has been praised. Indra, is all powerful. He is omniscient and knows the exact nature of the three 'paths'-'Sat', 'Rajas' and 'Tama'. This omnipotent lord transcends all three dimensional realms of 'time'- past, present and future. He is most benevolent and gives to each according to his ability and needs depending upon the demands of time, place and environment. He is the one, who facilitates the execution of the 'vows'(actions) of all the deities. For example, the nature of Sun is to shed light, that of the water is to flow and of the air to "dry up". These are the 'vows' of some of the external gods which Indra helps execute. Indra also makes possible the execution of the 'vows' of internal gods dwelling within the body like 'eyes', 'ear', 'nose' and 'prana', etc.

(29) AHAM UTTARESHU |

-------------(22/1, Atharvaveda)

May I rise to the highest pedestal!
This 'richa' exhibits the natural and innermost desire inherent in every man- to be a leader in all spheres of life. But, unless this desires turns into actions they do not come to fruition. Therefore, every man should first desire to acquire maximum knowledge, to engage himself in the noblest of deeds, earn social respect, success, fame and prosperity, authority and then act accordingly in order to realize them.

(30)SANSRISHTAM DHANMUNNAYE SAMAAKRITA BHASMABHYAI DHATTAM VARUNASHCHA MANYUHU|
BHIYO DADHAANA HRIDAYESHU SHATRAVAH PARAAJITAASO APA
NILAYANTAAMA ||

-------------(31/7,Atharvaveda)

May 'enthusiasm' and 'superiority' remain together and bless us with wealth! May the enemy flee after being scared!
Enthusiasm and Superiority exist side by side. Wealth comes naturally to a person, who is endowed with both these qualities. An enthusiastic person is brave and hence he always remains unharmed by his enemies as they are scared of him.
We should therefore aspire to become enthusiastic and noble. A man beaming with enthusiasm naturally accomplishes his works easily and quickly.

Chapter 5

(31) AA YO DHARMAANI PRATHAMAH SASAADA TATO VAPUNSHI KRINUVE PURUNI |
DHAASYURYONI PRATHAM AA VIVESHAA YO VAACHAM ANUDDITAAM CHIKETA ||

-------------(1/5,Atharvaveda)

One, who takes the initiative to follow 'Dharma' (religion) is blessed with many physical powers. One, who is capable of interpreting the meaning of 'secret-speech' becomes the first to come across the 'source of knowledge'.
The person who treads on the virtuous path attains all kinds of physical powers. 'Secret speech' as referred here implies mystical phenomena of nature, which if understood properly helps in the attainment of ultimate knowledge.

(32) SAPTA MARYAADAAH KAVAYASTAT KSHUSTAA SAAMIDEKAA BHYAMHURO GAAT |
AARYORHA SKAMBHA UPAMASYA NEEDE PATHAAM VISARGE DHARUNESHU TASTHAU ||

-------------(1/6,Atharvaveda)

The men of learning have determined '7 types of conduct' and man sins even if one of them is breached. He, who builds the castle of his life based on these 'seven pillars', attains that 'supreme-place'(heaven) where all the 'paths'(religion) converge ultimately and exist for eternity.

The rules determined are -
1) Non-stealing
2) Self-control
3) Non-violence
4) Non-abortion
5) Non-consumption of alcohol
6) Non-misconduct
7) Untruthfulness

(33) MUMUKTAM SMAANDURITAA DAVADDYAJJU SHETHAAM YAGYAM AMRITAM ASMAASU DHATTAM |

-------------(6/8,Atharvaveda)

Liberate us from this reprehensible sin! Accept this yagya and bless us with immortality!
This 'richa' exhorts us to stay away from evil deeds and indulge in virtuous ones, surrender totally to the will of God. A man, who acts thus, is inevitably blessed with immortality.

(34) UTA NAGNAA BOBHUVATI SWAPNYAA SACHASE JANAM |
ARAATE CHITTAM VIRTSANTYA AAKURTI PURUSHESYA CHA ||

-------------(7/8,Atharvaveda)

'Naked-Miserliness' makes a person indolent, it vitiates the mind and the resolutions taken!
A miser, unwilling to spend his money, fails to utilize his wealth properly. His mind is occupied by nothing but only one thought-how to preserve his wealth. To ensure the safety of his wealth, he spends most of his time worrying about the means to guard it. Thus, he becomes lethargic. Lethargy impedes one's assiduity and obstructs a person from fulfilling his duties.
On the contrary, the one, who is benevolent and liberal enjoys peace, happiness and prosperity.

(35) TRAYAH SUPARNAA STRIVRITAA YADAAYATREKA AKSHARMABHI-SAMBHUYA SHAKAAH SHAKRAA|
PRATYAU HANMRITYU MRITEN SAAKAMANTARDA DHAANA DURITAANI VISHWAA ||

-------------(7/8, Atharvaveda)

When the omnipotent '3 syllables' are dwelling in this word (Aum), how can these 'syllables of elixir' fail to eliminate all kinds of misfortunes and protects us from death!
There are three syllables that unite together to form "AUM", they destroy all that is inauspicious, death, misery. These threesyllables - A,U and M are like three fibers of the 'Yagyopaveeta' (thread). These threealphabets unite to create the resonance of Omkar.

These three alphabets symbolize the three states of the human mind, i.e. conscious, sub-conscious and dream state.
The sound resonated by the pronouncement of divine 'Omkar' gives indescribable joy to a man. It also develops concentration of mind. Therefore, everyone should chant this sacrosanct 'beej- mantra-'Aum'

Chapter 6:

(36) PAVMAANAH PUNAATA MAA KRATVE DAKSHAAYA JEEVASE |
ATHO ARISHTA TAATAYE ||

-------------(10/2,Atharvaveda)

May the Lord of 'karma'(actions), 'bala'(strength), 'dirgh-aayu'(long life) and 'kalyaan'(welfare) make me pure.
This richa implies that if our thoughts, actions and deeds are pure then we are automatically blessed with added benefits like good health, strength, long life and, most importantly, benediction. Therefore we should try to keep ourselves pure and chaste.

(37) SANJAANIDHWAM SAM PRICCHA YADHWAM SAM VO MANAANSI JAANATAAMA |
DEVAA BHAAGAM YATHAA PURVE SANJAANAANA UPAASETE ||

-------------(64/1, Atharvaveda)

May you acquire the 'same' knowledge, have mutual relationships based on equality. May your minds be enthused with the same 'sanskar'(consecrations). May you accomplish your duties just as your 'learned ancestors'.
This 'richa' stresses the importance of unity. No institution can function smoothly if there is disunity among its members. Hence, the significance of this richa is self- explanatory.

38) APAMITYAM PRATITAM YADASMI YAMASYA YENA BALILANAA CHARAAMI |
EDAM TAD AGNE ANRINO BHAVAAMI TVAM PAASHAAN VICHRITAM VETTHA SARVAAN ||

-------------(117/1, Atharvaveda)

That, which I could have 'repaid' but my inability to do so has made me a 'debtor'. The reason for which I did this O Agni!(You are aware of it).May I now be able to get absolved of my 'debts'!
This particular richa warns that one should repay the loans he has taken as soon as possible. A debtor can never enjoy peace of mind and happiness as long as he is under the burden of debts. Moreover, it is considered a grave sin to die a debtor. We should therefore free ourselves from all debts before death so that our soul could rest in peace.

Chapter 7:

(39) BHADRAADADHI SHREYAH PREHI BRIHASPATIH PURAETAA TE ASTU |

-------------(8/1, Atharvaveda)

May you be blessed with that benediction which transcends worldly happiness, and may scholars show you the path !
It is natural for a man to desire worldly joys and pleasures but his ultimate aim should be to attain benediction because only then can he enjoy eternal bliss. Only a wise teacher is capable of leading a man to the path of benediction hence one should always make constant efforts to seek such a Guru, who can lead him to the path of self-realization.

(40) TAAM SAVITAH SATYASAVAAM SUCHITRAABHAA HAM VRINE SUMATI VISHWAARAAM |
YAAMASYA KANVO ADUHAT PRAPINAAM SAHASRA DHARAAM MAHISHO BHAGAAYA||

-------------(15/1,Atharvaveda)

O Lord! I accept that supreme knowledge, which is extraordinary, protector of all and which leads to the path of truth....... the knowledge which nourishes with 'thousand streams' and which is acquired by capable scholars with great efforts.
It is imperative that one should make sincere efforts to acquire that 'power'(knowledge) which has helped the learned ones to attain supreme status during ancient times. He should engage himself in self study to refine his intelligence and to acquire knowledge. Knowledge helps dormant intelligence to awake and become conscious which automatically brings so many additional advantages.

(41) AKSHYAU NAU MADHU SANKAASHE ANIKAM NAU SAMANJANAM |
ANTAH KRINUSHVA MAAM HRIDI MUN INNAU SAHAASATI ||

-------------(36/1, Atharvaveda)

May our (husband's and wife's) eyes be full of 'love' as sweet as honey! May our eyes be embellished with collyrium! May I dwell in your heart and let there be perfect mutual understanding!
This particular richa stresses the importance of mutual love and understanding between married couples for a successful and happy married life.

Just as collyrium (Anjan) keeps the eyes healthy by removing the impurities, in the same manner we should make sincere efforts to purify our 'inner - vision' with the help of 'right- knowledge'.

Chapter 8:

(42) BODHASHCHA TVAA PRATIBODHASHCHA RAKSHATAAMA SWAPNASHCHA TVAANA VADRAANASHCHA RAKSHATAAM |
GOPAA YANSHCHA TVAA JAGRIVISHCHA RAKSHATAAMA ||

-------------(1/3, Atharvaveda)

May you be protected by 'Gyan' (knowledge) and 'Vigyan' (specialised knowledge)! May the one who is 'always awake', 'omnipresent' and the 'supreme protector' protect you!
After having acquired 'knowledge' one should bring it into practice. Constant practice will help him in mastering it and acquiring specialised knowledge by learning from his mistakes and eliminating any flaw that might exist. Pseudo-knowledge that creates nothing except 'illusions' is a deception and extremely harmful. On the contrary, 'true-knowledge' brings good health, strength and long life to a man. Therefore, we should continue making efforts by making best use of the above mentioned qualities-'gyan', ' vigyan' , fearlessness and alertness.

(43) AA RABHASVE MAAM AMRITASYA SHNUSHTIM ACHCHHIDYA MAANAA JARADASHTIRASTU TE |
ASUNTA AAYUH PUNARAA BHADAAMI RAJASTAMON MOPA GAA MAA PRA MESHTHAAH ||

-------------(2/1, Atharvaveda)

Start consuming this 'elixir of life'(medicinal herbs) so that you enjoy good health until old age. I fill you up with it so that your 'life' and 'vital-force'(prana) are revitalised. May you keep away from 'ignorance' and excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures......and may you remain untouched by death.
Here the richa is exhorting us to drink the elixir of life so that we become healthy and enjoy a long life. Those, who get attracted by ignorance and superficial worldly pleasures meet their ends early. In order to be blessed with a long life it is imperative that we become strong both mentally and physically. We should do all that makes our mind and body healthy and energetic.

(44) AA JIHVAAYAA MOORADEVAANTAA BHASVA KRAVYAADO VRISHTVAAPI DHATSVAASAN |

-------------(3/2, Atharvaveda)

Reform the 'fools' with the help of your 'tongue of fire' and devour all the meat consuming violent people.
This particular richa is of the view that ignorant people should be reformed and advised to quit their bad habits. One should not mind even using harsh language occasionally if it helps in serving the purpose.

(45) SUVIGYAANAM CHIKITESHU JANAAYA SACCHASACCH VACHASI PASPRIDHAATE|
TYORYAT SATYAM YATARAHA JIYASTADIT SOMOWATI HANTYAASAT||

-------------(4/2, Atharvaveda)

One, who is endowed with 'true-knowledge' is blessed with requisite wisdom necessary to differentiate between 'Satya' (truth) and 'Asatya' (untruth). This discriminatory intelligence is something without which we cannot differentiate between good and evil. While saying this one has to keep in mind the fact that there is continuous tug-of-war going on between truth and untruth and hence one can easily understand how difficult this task is. Somdev protects all that is truthful and destroys all that is untruthful.
God protects all that is pure and truthful and destroys whatever is impure and untruthful. It is a well established fact that ultimately truth prevails.

(46) ULUKAYAATUM SHUSHULUKA YAATUM JAHI SHWAYAATUMUT KOKAYAATUM|
SUPARNA YAATUMUT GRIDHRA YAATUM VRISHADEVA PRE MRINA RAKSHA INDRA||

-------------(4/22, Atharvaveda)

O Indra, destroy all those lustful people behaving like birds.... angry ones behaving like wolves.... greedy ones behaving like vultures.... enticed ones like owls..... arrogant ones like eagles and jealous ones behaving like dogs.
This particular richa exhorts us to destroy all those who are lustful, angry, greedy, enticed, proud and jealous.
We should strictly keep away from such people otherwise it will prove detrimental for our own spiritual growth.

Chapter 9:

(47) INDRAM MITRAM VARUNAM AGNIM AAHURATHO DIVYAH SA SUPARNO GARUTMAAN! EKAM SAD VIPRAA BAHUDHAA VADANTYAGNIM YAMAM MAATARISHWAAN MAAHUH |

-------------(10/28, Atharveda)

Truth is 'one' but the learned ones explain it in different ways according to their individual experiences. That same truth is known by various names such as Indra, Mitra, Varuna, Agni, Divya, Suvarna, Garutbhaan, Yama and Matarishwa.
This richa is self-explanatory. 'Truth' is one but learned people describe it in different ways to common people according to the needs of the time, place and environment. Unfortunately, we do not understand this simple fact and keep fighting in the name of religion. He, who treads on the path of truth is always victorious.

Chapter 10:

(48) BRAHMA ABHYAAVARTE |
TANME DRAVINAM YACHCHATU TANME BRAAHMAN VARCHASAM ||

-------------(5/40, Atharvaveda)

I am led by my knowledge. May He bless me with 'wealth' and radiance of knowledge.
One, who acquires the right-knowledge and then engages himself in good deeds, derives benefit in two ways, intellectually as well as economically. Knowledge is like the first step of the 'staircase of virtousity' on which one has no option but to keep his first step on his way up to wealth, prosperity and ultimately freedom from the cycle of births and deaths.

(49) TIRYAK BALISHCHA MASA URDHVA BUDHNA STASMIN YASHO NIHITAM VISHWARUPAM |
TADAASAT RISHAYAH SAPTA SAAKAM YE ASYA GOPAA MAHTO BABHUVUH ||

-------------(8/9, Atharvaveda)

Man's head is like a slanted 'pot' kept in an inverted position containing 'multi-dimensional fame', therein dwell the 'Sapt-Rishis', who protect this noble man.
This beautiful richa praises the glory of man's 'head' i.e. intelligence as all his abilities lie there. If something goes wrong with it, the entire personality of a man gets affected. For example an insane man is never conscious of his activities. This amazing pot kept in an inverted position also is the dwelling place of the seven sages i.e. 2 eyes, 2 ears, 1 nose and 1 mouth. These sense organs have been beautifully compared with the sages which means that if we have them in control then we can attain great heights in our life.

(50) ANANTAM VITATAM PURUTRA ANANTA BHANTA VACHCHAA SAMANTE |
TE NAAKPAALASH CHARATI VICHIN VANVI DWAANBHUTAMUTA BHAVYAMASTA ||

-------------(8/12, Atharvaveda)

The 'infinity' is spread all over!! 的nfinity' and the 'boundless one' (God) both meet at a point. The learned ones tries to unravel the mysteries of past and then with the help of his inferences thus gathered makes the best use of his present and acts in a way that his future is secured.

This beautiful richa alludes to the limitless-nature and the omnipresent-God are indistinguishable from each other. The almighty God reveals his presence through Nature or in other words it can also be said that Nature is the 'visible' part of God and in the same manner vice versa is also true....both are inseparable...each being the extension of the other. There is no distinction between the two and one is absorbed in the other. Scholars, learning from their mistakes of the past, plan their present and future accordingly and enjoy success, peace and prosperity.

Chapter 11:

(51) EMAA AGURYOSHITAH SHUMBHAMAANAA UTTTISHTHA NAARI TAVASAM RAMASVA |
SUPATNI PATYAA PRAJAYAA PRAJAAVATYAA TVAAGAN YAGYAH PRATI KUMBHAM GRIBHAAYA ||

-------------(1/14 Atharvaveda)

These women have adorned themselves and come here! Get up and acquire strength! May you become an ideal wife of your husband! May you be blessed with good children! The 'yagya' has reached you..... fill up the pot!
This richa exhorts women to perform their duties well and give due importance to their appearance because only then they will be able to attract good husbands. A woman should perform the duties of a wife without any complain, give birth to good children and bring them up as ideal citizens.

(52) VRISHABHO SI SWARGA RISHI NAARVEYAAN GACHCHA |
SUKRITAAM LOKE SEEDA TATRA NAU SANSKRITAM ||

-------------(1/35 Atharvaveda)

You are strong! You are the provider of joy! Go to the sages and their sons! Live at the place of virtuous souls to become well-cultured !
This particular richa advises humans to acquire strength, power and happiness. It also praises the virtues of living in the company of learned souls because by doing so a man acquires knowledge and becomes well cultured.

(53) SAMAACHIN USHVANU SAMPRAYAAHMAAGNE PATHAH KALPAYA
DEVYAANAAN |

-------------(1/36,Atharvaveda)

O Agni ! Unite all! Come with pleasure! Make a path for the Gods to tread!
Unity can only come when there is better co-ordination and mutual understanding in society; when there is no friction of thoughts and clash of ideologies. We should therefore follow the ideals established by the scholars and engage ourselves in virtuous deeds.

(54) MA NO HINSEE RADHI NO BRU HI PARINO VRINGDHI MAA KRADHAH |
MAAM TVAYAA SAMARAAMAHIM ||

-------------(2/20, Atharvaveda)

Do not kill us! Preach to us! Protect us and do not become angry! May we never oppose you!
This 'richa' praises the glory of 'Agni' and seeks His protection and blessings. It also advises us to be free from negative qualities like violence, anger and hatred. We should never be indignant and resentful. We should make efforts to acquire right knowledge and refrain from violence. We should work in unison and with co-operation because disunity leads to problems and failures.

(55) PRAANAYA NAMO YASTA SARVAMIDAM VASHE |

-------------(4/1,Atharvaveda)

I prostrate before 'Prana'(vital force)-the controller of the entire universe.
In this richa the importance of 'prana' has been highlighted. It is prana that helps us to exist. Our life sustains on prana. Our body is dependent upon prana (breath) for all its functions. We should bring this mighty force into our control, by practicing pranayama.

(56) BRAHMACHAARI ISHNA ANSHCHARATI RODASI UBHE TASMIN DEVAAH SAMMANASO BHAVANTI |

-------------(5/1, Atharvaveda)

A 'brahmachari' (a celibate) acts in such a way that treading the paths of both earth and heaven becomes a pleasurable experience; that is why all the Gods always dwell with him(in his heart).
In this richa the qualities of a Brahmachari are described. A brahmachari is he, who tries to attain enlightenment while he is alive and aspires for 'salvation' after his death. He incessantly makes efforts to improve upon his intellect and knowledge and to tread on the path of truth. Quite naturally gods are pleased by him and dwell in his heart.

Chapter 12:

(57) SA NO BHUMIRVI SRIJATAAM MAATAA PUTRAYA ME PACHAH |

-------------(1/10,Atharvaveda)

May earth provide us with all the things of our requirements just like a 'mother', who breast-feeds her child.
This beautiful richa compares the earth with mother and rightly so because she gives us all that we need for our survival- food to eat and water to drink just as a mother, who breast feeds her child. Therefore, we should protect the dignity of mother Earth because that's the only way we can repay some fraction of our debts (Matru rin) to Her.

(58) TAA NAH PRAJAAH SAM DUHATAAM SAMAGRAA VAACHO MADHU PRITHIVI DHEHI MAHYAM |

-------------(1/16,Atharvaveda)

O Motherland! May we, your subjects unite and be 'sweet-speakers'! Bless all of us so that we too could be soft spoken. Soft speech breeds brotherhood, peace and prosperity in the society. On the contrary harsh speech leads to hostility, hatred and enmity.
Therefore we should be polite and soft-spoken.

(59) UDIRAANAA UTAASEENA ASTISHTHANTAH PRAKAAMANTAH |
PADBHYAAM DAKSHINA SAVYAABHYAAM MAA VYATHISHMAHI BHUMYAAM ||

-------------(1/28,Atharvaveda)

May we not inflict pain on anybody while (making body movements like) walking....sitting.... getting up.... and taking strides with right or left foot! This beautiful richa praises the virtues of non-violence and advises us to be watchful while making body movements lest any creature get trampled under our feet. We should not engage in any action that causes pain to others.

(60) BHUME MATARNI DHEHI BHAA BHADRAYAA SUPRATISHTHITAM |
SAMVIDAANAA DIVAA KAVE SHRIYAAM MAA DHEHI BHUTYAAM ||

-------------(1/63,Atharvaveda)

O Motherland! Bless us with a benevolent mind! Help us realize all the knowledge with each passing day and may I acquire wealth from the earth!
In this richa prayer has been made to mother earth that She blesses us with the knowledge required to exploit the treasures of the nature but without disturbing the environmental balance.

(61) NIRITO MRITYUM NIRARITNIM NIRARAATIM AJAAMASI |
YO NO DVESHTI TAMADDHAGNE SAKRAVYAADA YAMU DVISHMASTAMU TE PRA SUVAAMASI ||

-------------(2/3 Atharvaveda)

Let there be no death, sorrow and enemy! O agni! devour those who oppose us! Whoever we oppose, we hand them over to you!
Here in this richa a prayer is made to Agni to liberate us from death, pain and enemies. We should work hard so that we are freed from the bondages of all kinds of sufferings, sorrows and poverty. We should acquire power and strength so that we could vanquish our enemies and enjoy a long life full of happiness and prosperity and face death without fear.

(62) YAT TVAA KRUDDHAAH PRACH AKRUR MANYUNA PURUSHE MRITE|
SUKALPA MAGNE TAT TVAYAA PUNASTVOD DIPAYAAMASSI ||

-------------(2/5 Atharvaveda)

Those who exploit thine wrath at the death of a man, O Agni! this deed of thine is just! So, we enkindle you once again.
According to Hindu traditions, after the death of a man his dead body is consigned to flames. This particular richa hails the glory of Agni and says that after death all the physical pains and sufferings cease to trouble us. This means that fears, sufferings, joys, sorrows, etc. trouble us as long as we are alive and once the soul departs from the body and the body is consigned to flames all emotions cease to have effect on that body constituted of 'panchtatva'. The tremendous wrath of Agni helps the physical body to fragment and then disappear in its original form i.e. 'panchtatva'.

(63) YE SHRADDHA DHANKAAMYA KRAVYAADA SAMAASATE |
TE VA ANYESHA KUMBHIM PARYADADHI SANRVADA ||

-------------(2/51 Atharvaveda)

Those who are greedy and 'devoid of devotion' sit together and devour flesh, they definitely have an eye on other's wealth.

Those who are greedy and avaricious end up in misery. Because of their evil deeds they are short lived.

(64) PITEVA PUTRAANABHI SAM SWAJASVA NAH |

-------------(3/12 Atharvaveda)

Just as a father 'treats' his children, you treat us all.
Let us all love each other the same way a father loves his children
Mutual affection only leads to co-operation and peace this propagates happiness and prosperity in the society.

(65) YADYAJJAYAA PACHATI TVAT PARAH PARAH PATIRVAA JAAYE TVAT TIRAH|
SA TAT SUJETAA SAH VAAM TADASTU SAMPADAYANTAU SAH LOKAM EKAM ||

-------------(3/39 Atharvaveda)

Whatever your wife cooks of which 'you' are unaware...whatever your 'husband' does that you are not aware of.... make them known to each other...every(activity) should be done by 'one' (in such a way) that the 'another' is aware about it... may you both attain to the same 'Loka'.
If there is difference of opinion between husband and wife then household chores will become impossible to accomplish. To avoid this, the relationship between husband and wife should be cordial and loving. Concealing any activity from the other may create unnecessary suspicion and mistrust between husband and wife and the situation may go beyond repair one day. Therefore it is in the best interest of both to share whatever they have so that it strengthens the mutual-bond and love.

(66) PRIYAM PRIYAANAAM KRINAVAAM NAMASTE YANTU YATEM DWISHANTI |

-------------(3/49 Atharvaveda)

May our friends be dear to us! May those who hate us, end up in darkness of ignorance!
We should never have any kind of malevolence towards our friends. Hostility pollutes the mind and actions and brings harmful repercussions. Therefore, we should always be loving toward our friends.

Chapter 13:

(67) PARITVAA DHAAT SAVITAA DEVO AGNIR VARCHASAA MITRAAVARUNAA VABI TVAA |
SARVAA ARAANTIR VAKRAAMANNEHEEDAM RASHTRA MAKARAH SANRITAA VAT ||

-------------(1/20, Atharvaveda)

May 'Savita dev' be present on all your sides! May Agni with his effulgence and Mitra and Varun protect you! Move ahead, vanquish your enemies and give joy to your Nation! In the vedic period, Savita, Mitra, Varun were three popular deities worshipped by aryans. Here, in this richa, prayer is offered to all three of them for welfare, success and prosperity. Even now we should engage ourselves in such actions that lead to national development, growth and progress.

(68) YO YAGYASYA PRASAADHANA STANTUR DEVESHVAA TATAH |
TAMAA HUTAM SHEEMAHI ||

-------------(1/60 Atharvaveda)

That 'fibre-of-knowledge' which is capable of accomplishing 'Yagya' and pervading the beings of Gods, may we be receptive to it! May we imbibe all those qualities and sublime merits possessed by the Gods. Human should try to imbibe good qualities because only by doing so we shall prosper and be successful. Our resolve to indulge in good deeds shall definitely yield rich benefits.

(69) AYUKTA SAPTA SHUNDHYUVAH SURO RATHASYA NAPTYAH |
TA ABHIRYATI SWAYUKTIBHIH ||

-------------(2/24 Atharvaveda)

The 'chariot' of Surya comprises seven rays that are absolutely pure, boarded on which He moves as per His wishes! The sunlight contains seven colours. Here in this beautiful richa, the sun's rays have been compared with the seven horses of a chariot. The sun showers light to all without any discrimination. Similarly, humans should also engage themselves in doing work for the benefit of the society. We should imbibe this unique quality of the sun and enhance our internal energies. The person who works for the good of others becomes prosperous and successful.

(70) ATANDRO THAASYAN HARITO YADAASTHAAD DVE RUPE KRINATE ROCHAMAANAH |
KETUMAANUD DYANTSAHAMAANO RAJAANSI VISHWAA AADITYA MAVATO VIBHAASI ||

-------------(2/28Atharvareda)

He(Sun)is not indolent, boarded on His chariot pulled by seven horses, when He wills to make a move, He assumes two forms! O Sun! After arising You conquer the world and shine radiantly from above the sky!
The greatness of the sun is indispensable. When the sun rises the entire world is illuminated. This richa exhorts us to emulate the Sun and to perform our duties, shedding indolence.

(71) KEERTISHCHA YASHASHCHA AMBHASHCHA BRAAHMAN VARCHASAM CHAA ANNAM CHA ANNAADYA CHA|
ETAM DEVAM EKAM VRITAM VEDA ||

-------------(5/14 Atharvaveda)

Fame, success, leisure, radiance, food, knowledge....everything can be acquired just by knowing 'this' one God.
God is one but the ways to reach Him are many. The most important thing is God-realization and the path one chooses does not matter much. The person who selflessly and assiduously works towards this goal of God-realization, enjoys all the comforts and pleasures of life. Such a person is blessed with all merits, and all his desires are fulfilled.

Chapter 14:

(72) ARCHAMANAM YAJAA MAHE SUBANDHUM PATIVEDANAM |
URVAARUK MIVA BANDHANAATPRETO MUNCHAAMI NAAMUTAH ||

-------------(1/17, Atharvaveda)

We honour the one coming from a noble family..... the one who has become your husband..... the one with supreme intellect. Just as a musk-melon detaches itself from the creepers, in the same manner I release you from the father's clan...but not from husband's.
One should seek the help of noble souls while searching for a suitable match for his daughter. Just like musk-melon, which detaches itself from the tree after it ripens, the girl after marriage leaves the father's house to develop a new relation with her husband 's family. For a married woman, detachment from the father's clan is natural because she begins a totally new life with her husband, which is literally her second birth.

(73) YUVAM BHAGAM SAM BHARATAM SAMRIDDH AMRITAM VADANTA AAVRRITODDYESHU |
BRAHMANASPATE PATIMANYAI ROCHAYA CHAARU SAMBHALO VADATU VAACHAM ETAAM ||

-------------(1/31, Atharvaveda)

May you both (husband/wife) act righteously and be blessed by prosperity and good fortune. O learned one! Help create interest in the heart of a wife towards her husband. May the husband be soft spoken and polite!
For happy and congenial marital life, the husband and wife must have faith, understanding and trust in each other. The wife should always be respectful towards her husband. The husband also should be caring and loving towards his wife so that the bond between them becomes stronger day by day and both of them enjoy a happy and satisfied married life.

(74) AASHAAYAANAA SAUMANASAM PRAJAAM SAUBHAAGYAM RAYIM PATYUR NUVRATAA BHUVVA SAM NAHMASWA AMRITAAYA KAM |

-------------(1/42,Atharvaveda)

You, the aspirant for supreme mind, progeny, fortune and wealth..... acting in accordance with your husband's wishes, happily pave your way towards immortality.
A woman should always think well of her family and should work according to her husband's wishes so that a peaceful, happy and cordial atmosphere prevails in the family.

(75) EMAM PANTHAAMARU KSHAAM SUGAM SWASTI VAAHANAM |
YASMIN VEERO NA RISHYATYA NYESHAAM VINDATE VASU ||

-------------(2/8,Atharvaveda)

Follow 'this' path... it is easily accessible and the cart can move freely on it.... treading on which the brave ones do not get vanquished and which also provides better prospects for earning wealth.
We should always choose a path that is easy and devoid of obstacles to eliminate any kind of threat perception, so that we could achieve the desired goal without any problem.

(76) AGHOR CHAKSHUR PATINDHI SYONA SHAGMA SUSHEVA SUYAMA GRIHEBHYAHA |
VIR ARDEVRIKAMA SAM TVAIDHISHIMAHI SUMANAYSA MAHA ||

-------------(2/17,Atharvaveda)

One, who does not cast evil eyes on her 'own' house... who does not have malevolence towards her husband... giver of joy....seeker of family's welfare...who treads on the righteous path... gives happiness to all... serves all... gives birth to good sons... keeps her brother-in-laws satisfied and gives nourishing food...May such a wife help us attain prosperity.
This richa describes the qualities of an ideal wife. A woman who possesses all the above mentioned qualities will quite naturally not have any problem in fulfilling her obligations towards her family and quite obviously keep everybody in the family happy and satisfied. A house in which such a woman dwells is always prosperous and full of comforts and luxuries.

(77) SHARM VARMETADAA HARAASYAI NAARYAA UPASTARE |

-------------(2/21,Atharvaveda)

Bring the cushions of 'happiness' and 'protection' for this woman to spread her bed.
It is the duty of the husband to earn money and fulfill the needs of his wife. It is also his duty to keep her happy and satisfied. He should protect her and fulfill all her demands. The husband being the head of the family has it under his obligation to look after the family. Such a household is the happiest where all are satisfied and content.

Chapter 15:

(78) PARISHKANDAA AASANT SANKALPAAH PRAHAAYYA VISHWAANI BHUTANYU PASADAH |

-------------(3/10, Atharvaveda)

Deities became his protector.... resolutions his messengers and people sat in his company.
The person who takes a resolution and then works diligently towards its fulfillment is helped and blessed by gods. He gets easy access to all the means necessary for success, growth and prosperity. Therefore, sincere efforts made for the realization of auspicious resolution never go in vain. Such a person naturally becomes the leader of the masses.

(79) SAH VISHO ANU VYACHALAT |

-------------(9/1, Atharvaveda)

He went favourably (just) according to the aspirations of his subject.
One, who earns leadership of the masses by working ceaselessly for people's welfare finally realizes that he has been rewarded with added advantage. A king, who rules as per the aspiration of people will naturally become popular. He will successfully rule his kingdom for a very long time.

Chapter 16:

(80) SUSHRUTAU KARNAU BHADRASHRUTAU KARNAU BHADRAM SHLOKAM SHRUYAASAM |

-------------(2/4, Atharvaveda)

May my ears listen(only)to supreme knowledge...everything benedictory should be heard by my ears...I will hear (only) auspicious praises!
Every person should listen to only good and should abhor anything that is evil or bad. Good thoughts inspire us to engage in good actions. When we receive compliments for our good works we naturally feel elated and happy. On the contrary listening to evil thoughts makes us skeptical and confused.

(81) BRIHASPATIRMA AATMAA NRIMANAA NAAMA HRIDYAH|

-------------(3/5,Atharvaveda)

My soul is embellished with knowledge and is one which, contemplates in the minds of men... it dwells in the heart.
Self-analysis helps a man's soul to become enlightened. An enlightened man naturally engages himself in virtuous deeds. One who constantly practices the art of 'self-analysis', his heart becomes free from all sorrows.

(82) NAABHIRAHAM RAYINAAM NAABHIH SAMAANAANAAM BHOOYAASAM |

-------------(4/1, Atharvaveda)

May I be the centre of 'wealth' and of the 'commodities' too!
A man should work hard to earn wealth so that he does not have any problem in arranging things necessary for running a household successfully. A wealthy person will be the cynosure for one and all. One should therefore try to acquire his materialistic objectives by working hard and earning wealth.

(83) USHO YASMAAD DUSHVAPNYAAD BHAISHMAAPA TADUCHCHATU |

-------------(6/2, Atharvaveda)

O Dawn! May we be freed from the nightmare that frightened us!
It is said that dreams seen at dawn often come true. This richa points towards such belief and a prayer is made to the 'Dawn'(Usha kaal) so that such nightmares do not come to trouble us.
There is another psychological aspect to this richa:the person who engages himself in people's welfare and good actions will never be tormented by bad dreams. So, this richa also exhorts us to indulge in virtuous deeds if we do not want that to happen.

(84) JITAM ASMAAKAM UDBHINNAM ASMAAKAM AMRITAM ASMAAKAM |
TEJO ASMAAKAM BRAHMAA ASMAAKAM SWA RASMAAKAM YAGYO ASMAAKAM PASHAVO ASMAAKAM PRAGYAA ASMAAKAM VEERAA ASMAAKAM ||

-------------(8/1, Atharvaveda)

May we be victorious...arise... realize the truth... May we be increasingly radiant...with increased aura... with enhanced knowledge... May our yagya be successful... May we be blessed with herds of animals... ever increasing number of subjects... and may we be valiant!
Anybody making the above resolutions will naturally make efforts to fulfill them. Auspicious resolutions taken and efforts made in the right direction are bound to bring favourable results and success in life.

(85) VASYOBHUYAAYA VASUMAANA YAGYO VASU VASHISHEEYA VASUMAANA BHUYAASAM VASU MAYI DHEHI|

-------------(9/4, Atharvaveda)

May I become wealthier for the enhancement of my 'Fortune'! Fortune is yagya....May I acquire fortune...May I become wealthy!
Every person should therefore work hard to earn wealth so that he can sustain himself in this world. Money has its own importance and without it our lives will become difficult because we need money to fulfill our daily needs. Therefore we should become industrious so that wealth automatically follows us.

Chapter 17:

(86) DEVAANAAM PRAJAANAAM SAMAANAANAAM PASHUNAAM PRIYAH BHUYAASAM AAYUSHMAAN BHUYAASAM |

-------------(1/1-5, Atharvaveda)

May I be dear to deities...people of equal capabilities and animals alike... and may I be blessed with a long life!
This richa means to say that our conduct should be such that we are loved by one and all..the high as well as the low. It also describes the importance of good health because in order to perform all our duties efficiently we need to be in good health. One,who wants progress,prosperity and longevity should lead a virtuous and routined life.Such a man is loved by one and all.

(87) ADABDHENA BRAHMANAA VAVRIDHAANAH |

-------------(1/12, Atharvaveda)

May I prosper with the help of that irrepressible knowledge!
Knowledge is vital for progress and prosperity. One should therefore continuously make efforts to acquire it. Knowledge also brings in us the requisite wisdom, compassion and discretion to work for uplifting the downtrodden. Knowledge also makes us courageous, valiant and brave.

(88) SHUKRO ASI BHRAAJO ASI |
SA YATHAA TVAM BHRAAJATAA BHRAAJO ASYEVAAHAM BHRAAJATAAM BHRAAJATAA BHRAAJYAASAM ||

Thou are radiant....full of effulgence...just like your radiance ... May I be blessed with the same effulgence.
We should take inspirations from men of learning and try to walk on their footprints. That will give us the inner-strength, self-belief and courage necessary to overcome the obstacles of daily life.

(89) UDYATE NAM UDAAYATE NAM UDITAAYA NAMAH |
VIRAAJE NAMAH SWARAAJE NAMAH SAMRAAJE NAMAH ||

-------------(2/22, Atharvaveda)

Salutations to the one, who rises up!...Salutations to the one who elevates !!...Salutations to the one, who radiates exceptionally !!!...Salutations to the one, who radiates with His own effulgence !!!!...Salutations to the one, who is embellished with glorious halo!!!!!
This particular richa praises the glory of Sun. It also gives us the message that those, who are successful and prosperous earn respect.. One should therefore strive tirelessly to earn wealth so that success and good status follow naturally.

(90) AADITYA NAAVA MAARUKSHAH SHATARITRAAM SWASTAYE|
ARURMAATYA PEEPARO RAATRIM SATRAATI PAARYA ||

O Sun god! Mount on a boat of hundred 'oars' for our welfare. Accompany me... help me cross the 'Day'... and also the 'Night'.
In this richa, Lord Surya has been eulogised and His blessings sought for success and prosperity. Just as the sun shines selflessly for one and all without any discrimination, similarly we humans too should work selflessly for the growth of society.

(91) RITEN GUPTA RITUBHISHCHA SARVAIBHUTEN GUPTO BHAVYEN CHAAHAM |
MAA MAA PRAAPAT PAAPMAA MOT MRITYURANTARDA DHE AHAM SALILENA VAACHAH ||

-------------(2/9, Atharvaveda)

May I move freely 'here'(in this world) being protected by truth... being protected by all the seasons...and being protected by past and present. May I remain untouched by sin and death! I submerge myself in the 'waters' of the Vedas.
Human beings should tread on the righteous path and act in such a way that his past is unblemished, present full of potential and future becomes secured. This richa exhorts us to study the Vedas and try to imbibe the teachings by bringing them into practice.

Chapter 18:

(92) SHPAD GANDHARVIR RANYAA CHA YOSHNAA NADASYA NAADE PARIPAATU NO MANAH |
ISHTASYA MADHYE ADITIRNI DHATU NO BHRAATAA NO JYESHTHAH PRATHAMO VI VOCHATI||

-------------(1/19,Atharvaveda)

'Vedvani', which sustains eulogists,…and is totally engaged in auspicious activities; praises Agni. O Agni! Protect our mind from all the four sides so that it can eulogise...Be seated in the 'yagya kunda' and fulfill our wishes...Preach us like elder brother.
Agni was one of the chief deities of the Aryans. This richa praises the glory of Agni. God protects the virtuous ones and fulfill their wishes. He guides us, just like a guardian and prevents us from going astray.

(93) YASTE AGNE SUMATIM MARTO AKHYAT SAHASAH SOONO ATI SA PRA SHRINAVE |
ISHAM DADHAANO VAHAMAANO ASHVAIRAA SA DYUMAAM ABHAVAAN BHUSHATI DYOOT ||

-------------(1/24, Atharvaveda)

O Agni! Those who praise you, they become famous and they are blessed with abundance of food grains... enjoy different mode of conveyances such as horses etc. and rule the hearts of people.
A devotee, who spends his time in austerities has nothing to worry about as God fulfills all his needs. A virtuous person enjoys happiness, peace and prosperity and is liked by everybody. Such a person is blessed with a long life.

(94) SAKHAAYA AA SHISHAAMAHE BRAHMENDRAAYA VAJRINE |
STUSHA UU SHOO NRITAMAAYA DHRISHNAVE ||

-------------(1/37, Atharvaveda)

Let us befriend and wish 'Brahm-Gyan' for Indra-the supreme leader, the vanquisher of enemies and who holds 'Vajra' in his hands.
We should become friends and work in tandem and perfect harmony for the prosperity and growth of the society. Realization of 'Brahm-Gyan' should also be given topmost priority by a man.
In the vedic period, Indra was the chief deity worshipped by Aryans. This richa is a beautiful expression of the aspirations of the masses for their powerful leader-Indra. Vedic people wanted Indra, their leader to be powerful and knowledgeable so, their wish that Indra should realize Brahm-Gyan is very natural and quite understandable.

(95) SARASWATI DEVAYANTO HAVANTE SARASWATI MADHWARE TAAYAMANE|
SARASWATIM SUKRITO HAVANTE SARASWATI DAASHUSHE VAARYADAAT ||

-------------(1/41, Atharvaveda)

Humans, who aspire for divinity must invoke Goddess Saraswati and invite Her to grace the non-violent 'Yagya'for knowledge! Saraswati fulfills the wishes of one who is benevolent!
One, who acquires knowledge and then passes it on to others, gets all his wishes fulfilled and achieves success, happiness and prosperity in his life. Anybody, who wants to acquire knowledge has to seek the blessings of goddess Saraswati-the goddess of learning.

(96) MAINAMAGNE VI DAHO MAABHI SHUSHUCHO MAASYA TVACHAM CHIKSHIPO MAA SHARIRAM |
SHRITAM YADAA KARASI JAATAVEDO ATHEMENA PRA HINUTAAT PITRA RUPAM ||

-------------(2/4, Atharvaveda)

O Agni! Don't incinerate this dead body in a way that it is painful! Don't cause sorrows to it! Do not throw its skin! Incinerate the 'whole-body' so that no part is left 'unburnt'. Thou, the knower of Vedas, incinerate the 'whole-body' so that the soul goes to the 'Pitra-Loka'!
It is believed that the soul's attachment with the body remains until the dead-body is not destroyed completely. The soul still feels attracted to the body. Therefore, in this richa, Agni has been evoked to incinerate the whole body so that the soul's attachment with the body comes to an end and it and goes to the abode of the ancestors peacefully.

(97) PRA CHYAVASVA TANVA SAM BHARASVA MAA TE GAATRA VI HAAYI BHO SHARIRAM |
MANO NIVISHTAM ANUSANVISHASVA YATRA BHUMERJUSHASE TATRA GACHCHA ||

Move ahead! Give proper Nourishment to the body! May your hands, legs and body not be destroyed by death! Go wherever your mind desires...go to the land you wish.
Everybody should work hard to achieve success, growth and prosperity. But, this can be possible only when our health is good. A man should do things at which he excels and settle in places where prospects for his growth and prosperity are abundant.

Chapter 19:

(98) TAA APAH SHIVAA APO AYAKSHMAN KARANEERAPAH |
YATHAIVA TRIPYATE MAYASTAASTA AA DUTT BHESHAJIH ||

-------------(2/5,Atharvaveda)

This water is benedictory! This water cures the ailments! Accept this water, for it is the panacea for all diseases and will enhance your joys !
Water has great medicinal value and it is capable of curing diseases because it drains out the toxins from our body. This particular richa recognizes this fact and praises the healing properties of water.

(99) YATO BHAYAM ABHAYAM TANNO ASTVAV DEVAANAAM YAJ HEDO AGNE |

-------------(3/4, Atharvaveda)

Whatever causes fear... May we become fearless from them! O Agni! Pacify the wrath of deities!
One should always follow the path of 'Dharma'. Acting to the contrary invites the wrath of God. We should be free from all kinds of fears, which can happen only if we are virtuous and work selflessly.

(100) AAKUTYAA NO BRIHASPAT AAKUTYAA NA UPAA GAHI |
ATHO BHAAGASYA NO DHEH MATHO NAH SUHANO BHAV ||

-------------(4/3, Atharvaveda)

O Jupiter! Come with a strong will power! Bless us with a good fortune! May you pay heed to our calls instantaneously!
Jupiter is associated with knowledge and learning. In this richa, an eulogy has been made to it so that we are blessed with knowledge and good fortune.

(101) ABHAYAM MITRAD ABHAYAM MITRAD ABHAYAM GYAATAAD ABHAYAM PURO YAH |
ABHAYAM NAKTAM ABHAYAM DIVAA NAH SARVAA AASHAA MAM MITRAM BHAVANTU ||

-------------(15/6, Atharvaveda)

May we be fearless... from friends and enemies...from known and unknown ... from night and day...May all the directions be our allies.
Our actions should be such that we become fearless. This can happen only when we lead a virtuous life and follow a righteous path. On the contrary, a sinful and malevolent person will always live in fear because he is aware of his wrongdoings and wrongful means adopted. His conscience always keeps haunting him and never allows him to be in peace. One should therefore refrain from bad actions and engage in good deeds.

(102) VARCHA AA DHEHI ME TANVAAM SAH OJO VAYO BALAM |

-------------(37/2,Atharvaveda)

May thou bless me with radiance, courage, energy and strength.
Humans should engage in such actions that help in self-improvement by enhancing qualities like radiance, courage, energy, strength and divinity.

May we witness a hundred years! May we live for a hundred years! May we keep on enhancing our knowledge for a hundred years! May we keep on prospering for a hundred years! May we keep on acquiring strength for a hundred years! May we continue enjoying embellishment for a hundred years! May we live for more than hundred years!
This richa beautifully expresses the most ardent wish of a man- to live for 100 years. To live for hundred years it is important that the body is healthy, devoid of weakness and ailments.

Chapter 20:

(104) INDRA PREHI PURASTVAM VISHWASYESHAAN OJASAA |
VRITTANI VRITRAHAM JAHI ||

-------------(5/3, Atharvaveda)

O Indra! move ahead! thou are the savior of this world by the virtue of your invincible powers! O killer of the 'Vritta'(demon)destroy many such 'Vrittras'.
This richa praises the glory of strength and power and exhorts us to acquire the same. Indra would not have been successful in killing the dreaded demon named 'Vritta' if he was not a powerful .A man should therefore become strong both physically and mentally, so that he could successfully meet the challenges of this world. A weak man can never achieve success in his life.

(105) VAYAM RAAJABHIH PRATHAMAA DHANAANYA SMAAKENA VRIJANENAA JAYEM|

-------------(17/10, Atharvaveda)

May we 'lead' in the company of kings and amass wealth by our efforts.
This particular richa stresses the importance of money in life. In order to meet the demands of life money is required and hence we should try to earn wealth so that we don't have to face problem.

(106) YAH SHARDHATE NAANUDADAATI SHUDHYAAM YO DASYORHANTAA SA JANAASA INDRAH|

-------------(34/10, Atharvaveda)

One, who does not tolerate the arrogant ones...one, who is the vanquisher of the 'Dasyus'(demons)...O people! only He is Indra!
This richa warns us against becoming arrogant because pride erodes knowledge. Arrogance and pride are demonic qualities and most certainly cause the downfall of a man. An arrogant person can be rightfully compared to a demon and Indra is the vanquisher of the demons. One should therefore shun arrogance if he is desirous of Indra's blessings.
This implies that until one has renounced pride and arrogance, he can not think of developing proximilty to God.

(107) YO JAAMYAA AMETHA YASTA DYATSAKHAAYAM DUGHOORSHATI |
JYESHTHO YAD PRACHETAAST DAAHU RADHARAAGITI ||

-------------(128/2,Atharvaveda)

The person, who causes the downfall of a noble woman... who causes loss to his friend...who despite of his superiority is ignorant; is called a fallen man.
A person should refrain from all those things that take him towards fallacy, misery, ignorance and degradation.

(108) YAD BHADRASYA PURUSHASYA PUTRO BHAVATI DAADHRISHIH |

-------------(128/3,Atharvaveda)

May the son of a noble man be victorious!
A child imbibes the quality of his father. Therefore, the son of a noble man will most probably be equally noble. So, it is the duty of learned ones to ensure that the tribe of noble people keeps growing. This they can do by means of proper guidance and tutelage.

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