Rig Veda 10.126 - Viśvedevas

Commentary

Certainly. Let us illuminate Rig Veda Book 10, Hymn 126, Verse 1:

Sanskrit (Devanagari): न तमंहो न दुरितं देवासो अष्ट मर्त्यम |
सजोषसोयमर्यमा मित्रो नयन्ति वरुणो अति दविषः

Romanized: na tamaṃho na duritaṃ devāso aṣṭa martyam |
sajoṣasoyamaryamā mitro nayanti varuṇo ati dviṣaḥ

1. Essential Meaning in Simple Language

This verse speaks of the gods, united in purpose, guiding a mortal (human) beyond darkness and harm. Yama, Aryaman, Mitra, and Varuna—deities representing cosmic order, friendship, justice, and moral law—lead the person safely past hatred and evil.

In essence:

“The gods, together—Yama, Aryaman, Mitra, and Varuna—escort the mortal beyond darkness and wrongdoing, taking them far from hostility.”

2. Deeper Philosophical or Spiritual Significance

At its heart, this verse is an invocation for divine guidance and protection. It reflects the Vedic belief that higher powers support and escort the sincere seeker or righteous person through the challenges and negativities of life (tamaṃho = darkness, duritaṃ = misfortune/sin).

The journey from darkness to light is a universal spiritual theme. Here, the gods are not distant; they are actively involved in the human journey, leading us away from inner and outer harm, and beyond the reach of hatred or enmity.

3. Key Deities and Their Symbolic Meaning

• Yama: Guardian of death and righteousness; symbolizes the law of consequences and moral order.
• Aryaman: Deity of friendship, hospitality, and societal bonds.
• Mitra: God of harmony, contracts, and mutual respect.
• Varuna: Upholder of cosmic and moral order, truth, and justice.

Together, they represent the forces that sustain ethical living, protect integrity, and foster harmony.

4. Connection to Universal Human Experience and Modern Life

This ancient prayer holds enduring relevance. Today, we too seek guidance through confusion, suffering, and conflict. The verse reminds us that:

• There are forces (divine, cosmic, or even human values) that help us overcome negativity.
• We are not alone in our struggles; support and guidance—seen or unseen—are available.
• Progress involves moving beyond hatred, malice, and ignorance towards light, truth, and peace.

Modern seekers can interpret this as a call to cultivate inner virtues (friendship, justice, truth) and to seek help—divine, communal, or personal—when facing difficulties.

5. Cultural or Historical Context

In Vedic society, these deities were invoked for their protective and guiding qualities. The verse reflects a worldview in which moral and cosmic order are interconnected, and where prayers are not just personal requests but affirmations of the universe’s support for right living.

6. Inspiring Reflection

Let this verse be a gentle reminder:
No matter the darkness or difficulty, there are benevolent powers guiding us. By aligning ourselves with truth, friendship, and integrity—and by seeking help when needed—we can move beyond harm and hostility into the light of harmony and peace.

In summary:
The gods guide the sincere heart past darkness and harm. In every age, when we walk with truth, friendship, and justice, we are led beyond the reach of hatred into the embrace of light.

Commentary

Certainly! Let’s unfold the wisdom of Rig Veda 10.126.2 together.

Essential Meaning

This verse is a prayer to the deities Varuṇa, Mitra, and Aryaman. The speaker asks for their protection and guidance, expressing a heartfelt desire:
“We seek from you, O Varuṇa, Mitra, and Aryaman, that which shields us from suffering and leads us safely beyond all hostility.”

In simple terms, the verse is asking the gods to help human beings overcome troubles, keep them safe from harm, and guide them past those who wish them ill.

Deeper Philosophical or Spiritual Significance

This prayer reflects a universal human yearning for safety, well-being, and deliverance from suffering. It acknowledges that life is filled with challenges, adversities, and sometimes even enemies—both external and internal.

By invoking Varuṇa, Mitra, and Aryaman, the verse is not just seeking protection from worldly dangers but also asking for guidance towards harmony, righteousness, and inner peace. It recognizes that divine grace is essential for transcending the “distress” (niramhasaḥ)—be it fear, ignorance, or disharmony.

At a deeper level, it is a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles. There is a benevolent order in the universe, and by aligning ourselves with it—through prayer, integrity, and right action—we receive support and protection.

Key Deities and Symbolic Meaning

• Varuṇa: Guardian of cosmic order (ṛta), upholder of truth, associated with moral law and the waters.
• Mitra: Deity of friendship, harmony, and agreements; symbolizes unity and social bonds.
• Aryaman: Associated with nobility, honorable conduct, and help in social relationships.

Together, these gods embody the virtues of order, friendship, honor, and protection. Their presence symbolizes the support of universal principles that sustain human life and society.

Connection to Universal Human Experience & Modern Life

• Seeking Protection: Just as ancient people prayed for safety from enemies and suffering, today we seek security in our lives—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
• Guidance Through Challenges: Modern life is filled with stress, uncertainty, and conflict. This verse reminds us to seek higher guidance, whether through spiritual practice, wisdom, or ethical living.
• Harmony and Right Relationships: The invocation of deities of friendship and honor teaches the importance of building trust, maintaining integrity, and nurturing harmonious relationships.

For a modern seeker, this verse encourages us to: - Trust in a greater order beyond ourselves. - Remember that help and guidance are available—through community, wisdom, and spiritual connection. - Face adversity not in isolation, but with the support of universal principles and the bonds we form with others.

Cultural and Historical Context

In Vedic society, prayers were both personal and communal, aiming for the welfare of individuals and the tribe. The deities invoked here were central to maintaining cosmic and social harmony. This verse reflects a worldview where humans and the divine are intimately connected, and well-being is achieved through alignment with divine law and ethical values.

Inspiring Reflection

“When we face distress and hostility, let us remember to seek guidance, protection, and harmony—not just from outside forces, but also by nurturing the order, friendship, and honor within ourselves and our communities. In doing so, we invite the eternal support of the universe to lead us safely through life’s challenges.”

The Rig Veda’s wisdom is timeless: when we ask for protection and guidance, we are also reminded to embody the virtues that invoke such grace—truth, friendship, and noble conduct. In this way, the ancient prayer becomes a living force in our lives today.

Commentary

Certainly! Let’s unfold the meaning and wisdom of Rig Veda 10.126.3:

Essential Meaning in Simple Language

This verse is a prayer to three ancient deities—Varuna, Mitra, and Aryaman. The speaker calls upon them as present and powerful helpers, asking them to guide and protect the worshippers, leading them safely beyond dangers and enemies.

Deeper Philosophical or Spiritual Significance

At its heart, this verse expresses a universal longing: the desire for guidance, protection, and safe passage through life’s challenges. By invoking Varuna, Mitra, and Aryaman, the hymn calls on divine forces that represent cosmic order, friendship, and noble conduct. It’s not just about physical protection, but also about being led ethically and wisely through life’s difficulties.

Key Deities, Concepts, and Their Symbolic Meaning

• Varuna: Symbolizes cosmic law, moral order, and the vastness of the universe. He represents the principle that upholds truth and justice.
• Mitra: Embodies friendship, harmony, and the bonds that unite people. He is associated with agreements and mutual respect.
• Aryaman: Signifies nobility, generosity, and honorable relationships, especially within social and family structures.

Together, these deities stand for the highest virtues—justice, harmony, and nobility. In asking them to be “best leaders, best deliverers,” the verse seeks guidance not just to escape external enemies, but also to overcome inner conflicts and challenges.

Connecting Ancient Wisdom to Modern Life

For the modern seeker, this verse is profoundly relevant. It reminds us that: - We all face adversities—sometimes external, sometimes internal (like fear, doubt, or anger). - Seeking guidance and support—whether from spiritual sources, mentors, or our own higher values—is natural and wise. - True leadership is not just about authority, but about leading others (and ourselves) safely, ethically, and compassionately. - Friendship, justice, and nobility are timeless principles that can guide us through any difficulty.

Cultural and Historical Context

In Vedic society, these deities were invoked as guardians of social and cosmic order. The hymn reflects a worldview in which human beings are part of a larger moral and cosmic fabric, and where prayer is a way to align oneself with these universal forces.

Inspiring Reflection for Today

This verse invites you to reflect: - Who or what do you turn to for guidance when facing difficulty? - How can you embody the virtues of justice, friendship, and nobility in your own life? - In what ways can you help guide others safely through their challenges?

Summary

Rig Veda 10.126.3 is a timeless prayer for guidance and protection, reminding us that the greatest help comes from aligning ourselves with truth, harmony, and nobility. It teaches that by seeking and embodying these virtues, we can navigate the challenges of life and help others do the same.

Commentary

Certainly. Let’s explore Rig Veda Book 10, Hymn 126, Verse 4 in a way that honors its depth and makes its wisdom accessible to you.

Essential Meaning in Simple Language

The verse is a prayer to three Vedic deities—Varuna, Mitra, and Aryaman. The devotee asks these gods, who watch over and protect all people, to shelter and guide them. The verse expresses a desire to be safe, cherished, and led wisely by these divine forces, especially so as to rise above enmity and opposition.

Deeper Philosophical and Spiritual Significance

At its heart, this hymn is about divine guardianship and guidance. It’s an invocation for protection—not just from external enemies, but from anything that might disturb one’s peace, virtue, or well-being.

In Vedic thought, Varuna, Mitra, and Aryaman are not just supernatural beings; they are personifications of cosmic principles:

• Varuna: Guardian of moral order, cosmic law (ṛta), and the waters. He represents integrity, truth, and universal harmony.
• Mitra: God of friendship, harmony, and contracts. He embodies goodwill, cooperation, and the bonds between beings.
• Aryaman: Associated with nobility, hospitality, and social order. He signifies mutual respect and the supportive aspects of community.

To seek shelter in their “dear keeping” means to entrust oneself to these higher principles—truth, friendship, and respect—which guide us safely through life’s uncertainties and challenges.

Key Metaphors and Symbolism

• “Compass round and guard”: A metaphor for all-encompassing divine protection. The gods are envisioned as surrounding each person, ensuring safety on every side.
• “Guide beyond our foes”: Suggests not just physical safety, but guidance past obstacles, negative influences, and internal struggles.
• “Your dear keeping”: Implies a relationship of love, trust, and intimacy with the Divine—not a distant or fear-based connection.

Connection to Universal Human Experiences and Modern Life

In today’s world, we all seek security, guidance, and peace of mind—not just from physical threats, but from anxiety, confusion, and conflict. This verse reminds us that:

• True protection comes when we align ourselves with higher values: truthfulness, friendship, respect, and harmony.
• Life’s journey is full of challenges (“foes”), both external and internal. By seeking shelter in timeless virtues, we find strength and clarity.
• The sense of being “cherished” by something greater—a loving universe, the bonds of friendship, the fabric of community—can be a profound source of comfort and inspiration.

You don’t need to believe in the literal existence of Varuna, Mitra, or Aryaman to benefit from this teaching. Instead, you might reflect on what it means to let truth, kindness, and respect “compass round and guard” your life, especially when facing adversities.

Cultural and Historical Context

In Vedic society, the gods were seen as upholders of cosmic and social order. Invoking their protection was a way of affirming one’s connection to the deeper laws that sustain harmony in the universe and society. The hymn’s language reflects a worldview where spiritual, ethical, and communal well-being are inseparable.

Reflective Closing

This ancient prayer invites you to place yourself in the gentle keeping of higher principles. It asks you to trust that when you embrace truth, friendship, and nobility, you are guided safely through life’s storms. Its wisdom is timeless: the surest protection is living in alignment with the sacred values that bind us all.

Personal Reflection: How might your life change if you let truth, friendship, and respect “compass round and guard” your actions and relationships? What adversities could you overcome with such guidance and shelter? This verse is an invitation to make these eternal qualities your own guardians and guides.

Commentary

Certainly! Let’s unfold the meaning and significance of Rig Veda 10.126.5:

Essential Meaning in Simple Language

This verse is a prayer asking for protection and well-being. The poet calls upon the Adityas—divine guardians including Varuna, Mitra, and Aryaman—as well as powerful deities like Rudra (with the Maruts), Indra, and Agni. The request is for these forces to grant safety, happiness, and strength, especially against adversities or enemies.

In essence, it’s a heartfelt invocation for divine support, harmony, and victory over negativity.

Deeper Philosophical & Spiritual Significance

At a profound level, this verse reminds us of the interconnectedness between human life and the cosmic forces. By invoking many deities together, the hymn shows that protection and prosperity are not just the work of a single power, but the harmonious cooperation of many aspects of divinity.

• Adityas (Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman): Represent cosmic order, moral integrity, friendship, and social harmony.
• Rudra & Maruts: Embody transformation, power, and the energies of nature.
• Indra: Symbolizes courage, leadership, and the ability to overcome obstacles.
• Agni: The fire, is a symbol of inner light, purification, and the link between humans and the divine.

By appealing to these deities, the verse teaches us to seek strength not just from one source, but from the entire spectrum of positive cosmic energies.

Key Deities, Concepts, and Metaphors

• Adityas: Often seen as guardians of truth, justice, and social order.
• Varuna: Upholds cosmic laws and moral conduct.
• Mitra: Embodies friendship and harmony.
• Aryaman: Associated with nobility and honor.
• Rudra: Both fierce and healing, representing transformative power.
• Maruts: Storm gods, representing dynamic change and movement.
• Indra: King of the gods, associated with courage and overcoming adversity.
• Agni: Fire god, mediator between humans and gods, purifies and sustains.

The verse’s metaphors point to the forces within and around us that shape our lives—order, friendship, change, strength, and clarity.

Connection to Universal Human Experience & Modern Life

For a modern seeker, this hymn offers timeless guidance:

• Unity in Diversity: Just as the Vedic seers called upon multiple deities, we too can draw strength from many sources—community, nature, inner resilience, wisdom, and spiritual practices.
• Facing Adversity: The prayer for protection “beyond our foes” can be seen as a call to overcome not only external challenges but also internal obstacles: fear, doubt, negativity.
• Seeking Well-being: The ancient wish for “svastaye” (well-being) resonates today as our universal desire for happiness, peace, and safety.
• Harmony with Cosmic Order: Living in alignment with truth, justice, friendship, and transformation is as relevant now as ever.

Cultural & Historical Context

In Vedic times, hymns like this were not just religious rituals—they were expressions of a worldview that saw the divine in every aspect of life. The “foes” could be literal enemies, but also symbolize any force that disturbs harmony—be it illness, conflict, or ignorance.

The collective invocation reflects the Vedic value of cooperation and balance among all elements of existence.

Inspiring Reflection for Today

This verse invites us to:

• Seek help and inspiration from all facets of life—not just one.
• Remember that protection, happiness, and victory are the fruits of living in harmony with the forces of nature, community, and our own higher selves.
• Understand that adversities can be overcome through unity, courage, and wisdom.

In summary:
“Let us call upon the forces of order, friendship, transformation, courage, and purification—so that we may be safe, happy, and victorious over any negativity, within and without.”

This ancient prayer becomes a living reminder: trust in the interconnected web of support—seen and unseen—that is always available to you. In unity with the cosmos, we thrive.

Commentary

Rig Veda 10.126.6 – Explanation and Reflection

Essential Meaning in Simple Language:

This verse is a prayer for guidance and protection. It asks the divine forces—Varuṇa, Mitra, and Aryamā, who are regarded as great leaders and kings—to lead us safely through all difficulties, to help us overcome every obstacle and keep us safe from harm and enemies.

Deeper Philosophical or Spiritual Significance:

The Rig Veda often portrays the gods not just as supernatural beings, but as cosmic principles—embodiments of order, harmony, and benevolence. Here, Varuṇa (the upholder of cosmic law), Mitra (the force of friendship and agreement), and Aryamā (the principle of noble conduct and hospitality) are invoked together. Their leadership is not only in the worldly sense but also in guiding the soul through the challenges of life.

The verse suggests that when we align ourselves with higher virtues—truth, harmony, nobility—we are led safely through the “duritā” (difficulties, misfortunes) of existence. The gods are seen as guardians who help us transcend adversities and keep us above hostility (“dviṣaḥ”—hatred, enemies).

Key Deities, Concepts, and Their Symbolism:

• Varuṇa: Symbolizes universal order (Ṛta), moral and cosmic law. He represents the principle of integrity and accountability.
• Mitra: Embodies friendship, agreements, and the sanctity of relationships. He stands for cooperation and trust.
• Aryamā: Signifies noble conduct, generosity, and the bonds of kinship. He is the spirit of hospitality and right action.
• Kings of Men (rājānaścarṣaṇīnām): The gods as sovereigns not just of humans but of all beings, guiding society and individual lives.
• Overcoming Troubles (ati viśvāniduritā): The journey through life’s challenges, with divine support helping us overcome suffering and adversity.

Connection to Universal Human Experience and Modern Life:

Even today, people face obstacles, hostility, and uncertainty. This verse teaches that when we cultivate the qualities represented by Varuṇa, Mitra, and Aryamā—integrity, harmony, nobility—we are guided through life’s difficulties. The prayer is timeless: it is a call to seek higher guidance, to trust in forces that support us when we act rightly, and to know that goodness leads us beyond trouble and conflict.

It also reminds us of the importance of community, ethical leadership, and friendship. In a world where division, mistrust, and adversity persist, the Vedic wisdom encourages us to seek unity, to uphold our principles, and to trust that these virtues will protect and guide us.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the Vedic age, these deities were central to the worldview of the people. They were not distant gods but active forces in daily life, invoked for guidance in personal and communal affairs. The hymn reflects a deep faith in the moral fabric of the universe and the belief that living in harmony with it brings well-being.

Inspiring Reflection:

This verse is more than a plea for divine intervention—it is a reminder that the qualities we cultivate within ourselves and our societies are themselves divine. When we act with integrity, foster harmony, and show noble conduct, we align with the cosmic leadership of the gods. In doing so, we find safe passage through the storms of life.

Takeaway for the Modern Seeker: - Seek guidance from higher principles, not just external help. - Trust that acting with truth, friendship, and nobility brings protection and success. - See adversities as opportunities to invoke and embody these virtues. - Remember: The leaders (netāra) are within and around us, helping us transcend all troubles when we walk the path of righteousness.

Let the wisdom of the Rig Veda guide you: When you face difficulties, call upon your highest self and the virtues that lead all beings safely to peace.

Commentary

Certainly! Let’s explore Rig Veda, Book 10, Hymn 126, Verse 7:

Sanskrit (Romanized):
śunamasmabhyamūtaye varuṇo mitro aryamā |
śarma yachantusapratha ādityāso yadīmahe ati dviṣaḥ

Griffith Translation:
May they give bliss to aid us well, Varuṇa, Mitra, Aryaman:
May the Ādityas, when we pray, grant us wide shelter and defence beyond our foes.

1. Essential Meaning in Simple Language

The verse is a heartfelt prayer, asking the divine powers—Varuṇa, Mitra, Aryaman (all Ādityas)—to grant us happiness, protection, and shelter. It seeks their benevolence so that we may be safeguarded from harm and opposition.

Put simply:
“O Divine beings, Varuṇa, Mitra, Aryaman—please give us bliss, protection, and broad shelter, keeping us safe from those who wish us ill.”

2. Deeper Philosophical and Spiritual Significance

This verse beautifully encapsulates a universal spiritual longing: the desire for well-being, security, and peace. By invoking the Ādityas (solar deities known for upholding cosmic order, truth, and righteousness), the hymn aligns the seeker’s aspirations with the forces of harmony and justice.

It teaches that well-being is not only a personal wish but a cosmic principle—when we seek shelter and protection, we’re also seeking alignment with truth, order, and virtue.

Deeper wisdom:
- True happiness and safety come from living in accordance with cosmic order (ṛta), as embodied by the Ādityas. - Seeking protection from negativity (foes, inner or outer) is natural, but the real shelter is found in aligning with higher principles.

3. Key Deities, Concepts, and Symbols

• Varuṇa: Guardian of cosmic law, moral order, and truth.
• Mitra: Deity of friendship, harmony, and contracts.
• Aryaman: Associated with hospitality, nobility, and societal bonds.
• Ādityas: Solar deities representing different aspects of righteousness, protection, and universal order.
• Shelter/Bliss (śarma): Not just physical safety, but a holistic sense of peace, happiness, and spiritual refuge.

Symbolic meaning:
These deities represent the forces that sustain order, harmony, and well-being in the universe and in human society. Invoking them is to seek the support of these cosmic principles.

4. Connection to Universal Human Experience and Modern Life

Every human longs for security, happiness, and protection from harm—be it physical, emotional, or spiritual. This ancient prayer is timeless; it voices the same hopes we hold today.

Modern resonance:
- In uncertain times, we seek guidance and protection from higher principles—whether that’s justice, truth, compassion, or the divine. - The verse reminds us: real peace and safety come from living in harmony with these principles, not just from external defenses. - It encourages us to pray not just for ourselves, but for the well-being and harmony of all.

5. Cultural and Historical Context

In Vedic society, prayers like this were recited collectively, expressing the community’s yearning for divine protection and happiness. The Ādityas were central to the Vedic worldview, seen as upholders of cosmic and social order.

This verse reflects a worldview where well-being is intricately linked to righteousness and the protection offered by the guardians of cosmic law.

6. Clear, Engaging Reflection

In summary:
This verse is a radiant call for happiness and protection, not just for the individual, but for the whole community. It teaches that our true shelter lies in aligning ourselves with truth, harmony, and justice—the eternal values embodied by the Ādityas.

For the modern seeker:
- When you feel vulnerable, seek not only external protection, but also inner harmony and alignment with truth. - Remember, real bliss and safety arise when we live in accordance with higher principles—kindness, honesty, and community. - This ancient prayer invites you to make your own life a reflection of cosmic order, finding shelter in virtue and peace in righteousness.

Let this verse inspire you to seek not just safety from harm, but a deeper happiness that comes from living in tune with the eternal laws of truth, compassion, and harmony.

Commentary

Certainly. Let’s unlock the wisdom of Rig Veda Book 10, Hymn 126, Verse 8:

1. Essential Meaning in Simple Language

The verse is a prayer to the Vasus (divine beings), asking them to free the worshippers from their troubles and suffering, just as they once freed a cow named Gaudi when her feet were bound. The devotee asks for release from affliction and for their life to be prolonged.

2. Deeper Philosophical/Spiritual Significance

At its heart, this verse is an invocation for liberation—not just physically, but spiritually and emotionally. The image of the cow, Gaudi, whose feet were tied, serves as a metaphor for anyone bound by the challenges, limitations, or sorrows of life. The prayer is for divine intervention, to be released from whatever chains hold us back, so that we may live a fuller, longer, freer life.

It acknowledges that sometimes, just as the cow required help from the gods to be set free, human beings also need grace—something beyond their own efforts—to overcome difficulties.

3. Key Deities, Concepts, and Symbols

• Vasus: Eight elemental deities in Vedic lore, associated with aspects of the natural world (like light, fire, water, earth). They symbolize forces that sustain and liberate life.
• Gaudi (the cow): In Vedic tradition, cows symbolize abundance, sustenance, and the Earth itself. Her binding and subsequent liberation stand for the release from suffering and the restoration of natural harmony.
• Agni (Fire): Mentioned in the verse as the agent who helps cross over troubles (“Agneprataraṃ na āyuḥ”). Agni is the divine fire, a bridge between the human and the divine, representing purification and transformation.

4. Connection to Universal Human Experience & Modern Life

This verse expresses a timeless human longing: freedom from suffering, and the hope for a longer, better life. In today’s context, people feel “bound” by many things—stress, anxiety, unhealthy patterns, or external constraints. Just as the cow was freed by divine help, this hymn reminds us that while personal effort is essential, sometimes we need to seek support—whether from loved ones, mentors, or, in a spiritual sense, from the greater powers of the universe.

It teaches humility: recognizing when we need help and being open to receiving grace.

5. Cultural & Historical Context

In Vedic society, cows were considered sacred and central to prosperity. The act of freeing a bound cow would be a powerful symbol of restoring well-being. The reference to the Vasus and Agni shows the interconnectedness between natural forces and human life, and the belief that the divine is ever-present, ready to assist when invoked with sincerity.

6. Inspiring Reflection & Modern Resonance

This verse invites us to reflect:
- What are the “fetters” that bind us in life? - Are we willing to seek help—both earthly and spiritual—when we’re struggling? - Can we trust that there is a higher benevolence ready to support us?

It encourages us to approach life’s challenges not just with effort, but with prayer, humility, and openness to the possibility of grace. And it reminds us that liberation—freedom from suffering—is a universal aspiration, as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago.

In summary:
The ancient prayer is a call for freedom from whatever binds us, a plea for divine assistance to overcome afflictions, and a wish for a long, vibrant life. It teaches us that seeking help is not weakness, but wisdom, and that liberation—inner or outer—is available to those who ask with sincerity and faith.