Rig Veda 5.64 - HYMN LX1V. Mitra-Varuṇa
- Primary deity
- Mitra-Varuna
- Rishi family
- Atri and the Atreya line
- Verses
- 7
- Location
- Mandala 5, Sukta 64
This Sukta is the 64th hymn of Mandala 5, a book of 87 hymns known as The Atri Mandala. Its 7 verses are addressed chiefly to Mitra-Varuna, and are given here in Devanagari, IAST transliteration and Griffith’s English rendering. By tradition the hymns of this Mandala belong to Atri and the Atreya line.
The text is preserved here in three registers: the Devanagari Sanskrit of the Samhita, a scholarly IAST romanisation, and Ralph T. H. Griffith's 1896 English translation. Where our editors have published a verse-by-verse commentary it appears beneath the relevant Rik below, adding philological and contextual reading beyond the base translation.
Verses
Commentary
Certainly. Let’s explore Rig Veda 5.64.2 with clarity and reverence.
Verse (with simple translation):
Sanskrit:
ता बाहवा सुचेतुना पर यन्तम अस्मा अर्चते |
शेवं हि जार्यं वां विश्वासु कषासु जोगुवे ||
Romanized:
tā bāhavā sucetunā pra yantam asmā arcate |
śevaṃ hi jāryaṃ vāṃ viśvāsu kṣāsu joghuve ||
Griffith:
Stretch out your arms with favouring love unto this man who singeth hymns,
For in all places is sung forth your evergracious friendliness.
1. Essential Meaning in Contemporary Language
The verse is a prayer to the deities, asking them to extend their loving, protective arms toward the devotee who praises them. It recognizes that the gods’ graciousness and goodwill are celebrated everywhere, among all people.
In essence:
“O divine ones, reach out to us with your caring embrace as we offer our hymns. Your kindness and goodwill are cherished and invoked in every land and among all people.”
2. Deeper Philosophical or Spiritual Significance
At its heart, this verse is about the reciprocal relationship between humanity and the divine. The devotee offers praise and devotion, and in return, seeks the embrace of divine benevolence and protection. It reflects the idea that spiritual connection is nurtured through sincere offering and heartfelt prayer.
The verse also affirms the universality of divine grace—the gods’ compassion is not limited to any one person or place; it is accessible to all who seek it.
3. Key Deities, Concepts, and Metaphors
- Arms (बाहवा, bāhavā): Symbolize protection, support, and the caring reach of the divine. The image of the gods stretching out their arms is one of comfort, security, and inclusion.
- Favouring love (सुचेतुना, sucetunā): Implies not just affection, but wise and benevolent care.
- Hymns (अर्चते, arcate): Represent the act of devotion, the bridge between the human and the divine.
- Evergracious friendliness (शेवं…जोगुवे): Points to the perpetual, all-encompassing kindness of the divine.
4. Connection to Universal Human Experience and Modern Life
Universal longing:
We all yearn for comfort, security, and kindness—whether from the divine, from others, or within ourselves. This verse speaks to that fundamental human desire to be embraced and cared for.
Reciprocity:
It teaches that spiritual blessings are not arbitrary; they arise in response to sincere devotion, respect, and goodness. In modern life, it reminds us that relationships (with the divine or with each other) flourish through mutual care and appreciation.
Inclusivity:
The verse celebrates the idea that no one is excluded from divine grace. Just as the gods’ arms stretch out to all, we too can strive for inclusivity and compassion in our own lives.
5. Cultural and Historical Context
In Vedic culture, hymns were not just rituals—they were heartfelt communications, expressions of love and longing for the divine. The gods were seen as close and caring, not distant or aloof. The verse reflects this intimate relationship, where the devotee feels safe to ask for the embrace and protection of the gods.
6. Personal Reflection and Inspiration
This verse invites us to: - Approach life and spirituality with open arms—ready to give and receive love and kindness. - Recognize that divine grace is universal, accessible to all who seek it sincerely. - Understand that devotion and gratitude are powerful forces that can draw blessings into our lives. - Remember that compassion and inclusion are sacred values, both in the spiritual world and in our daily interactions.
In summary:
This ancient prayer reminds us that loving kindness—whether divine or human—is meant to be shared, received, and celebrated everywhere. By singing praises, offering gratitude, and opening our hearts, we invite the embrace of protection, care, and universal goodwill into our lives.
Let the arms of grace stretch toward you, as you reach out with devotion and love.
Commentary
Certainly. Let’s explore Rig Veda Book 5, Hymn 64, Verse 3 with clarity and reverence.
Sanskrit (Romanized):
yan nūnam aśyāṃ ghatim mitrasya yāyām pathā |
asya priyasya śarmaṇy ahiṃsānasya saścire
Griffith Translation:
That I may gain a refuge now, may my steps be on Mitra’s path. Men go protected in the charge of this dear Friend who harms us not.
1. Essential Meaning in Simple Language
The speaker prays to walk in the path of Mitra, the Vedic deity of friendship, harmony, and contracts. The wish is to find shelter and protection in the way of Mitra—a path that is gentle, harmless, and full of goodwill. The verse recognizes Mitra as a beloved guardian who brings safety and peace.
2. Deeper Philosophical and Spiritual Significance
At its heart, this verse is a yearning for a life guided by harmony, truthfulness, and non-violence. Mitra, in Vedic tradition, embodies the principles of friendship, trust, and upholding right relationships among beings. By aspiring to follow Mitra’s path, the seeker is expressing a wish to live in accordance with these ideals, to seek refuge in values that foster unity and mutual respect.
The “path of Mitra” is not just a physical route—it is a way of living characterized by harmlessness (ahiṃsā), kindness, and protective grace. The Vedic sages teach that when we align ourselves with such principles, we are sheltered from harm and live in the embrace of cosmic friendship.
3. Key Deities, Concepts, and Metaphors
- Mitra: Not merely a god, but the cosmic principle of friendship, agreement, and social order. Mitra is often paired with Varuṇa, representing the moral and ethical bonds that hold society together.
- Path (patha): Symbolizes the journey of life, choices, and actions.
- Refuge (śarmaṇy): Spiritual protection, inner peace, and sanctuary.
- Ahiṃsānasya (Harmlessness): The quality of non-violence, foundational to ethical living.
- Dear Friend (priyasya): The divine as a close, loving companion, not distant or punitive.
4. Connecting Ancient Wisdom to Modern Life
In today’s world, we often seek security, peace, and meaningful relationships. This verse invites us to find these not in external circumstances, but in the path we choose—the path of harmlessness, integrity, and friendship. Mitra’s “way” is universal: treating others with respect, honoring our promises, and cultivating gentleness in our actions.
For a modern seeker, this is a call to choose kindness over conflict, to seek refuge in ethical living, and to recognize that true protection comes not from force, but from the bonds of trust and goodwill we nurture.
5. Cultural and Historical Context
In Vedic society, contracts and social harmony were sacred, maintained by deities like Mitra. The invocation of Mitra here suggests the importance placed on social relationships and the spiritual dimension of ethical behavior. The concept of ahiṃsā later becomes central in Indian philosophy, especially in Buddhism and Jainism, but its roots are visible here.
6. Reflection and Inspiration
This verse offers an abiding truth:
Peace and safety arise when we walk the path of friendship and harmlessness.
It reminds us to be mindful of the way we live, to seek the shelter of goodness, and to trust that when we embody these virtues, we invite protection—not only for ourselves, but for all those in our community.
In Summary
Rig Veda 5.64.3 is a prayer to live by the gentle, protective principles of Mitra.
It teaches that real refuge is found in kindness, non-violence, and trustworthy relationships.
For anyone, anywhere, this is a path to true harmony—one that is always open to us, if we choose to walk it.
Contemplation:
How might your life change if you dedicated yourself to “Mitra’s path”—to friendship, harmlessness, and sheltering others from harm?
Let this ancient wisdom guide your steps today.
Commentary
Certainly. Let’s explore Rig Veda 5.64.4 with clarity and reverence.
Essential Meaning (Simple Explanation):
In this verse, the poet-priest addresses the deities Mitra and Varuna. He prays:
“May I, through my hymn, receive a reward from you—one that is so excellent, it inspires admiration and even envy among wealthy leaders and fellow singers.”
Deeper Philosophical or Spiritual Significance:
This hymn is more than a request for material gain. It expresses a yearning for divine favor—the kind that sets one apart, not just through riches, but through spiritual distinction. The poet hopes that his devotion and song will earn blessings so profound that others will aspire to them.
At a deeper level, the verse touches on: - The power of sincere worship: True praise, offered with devotion, can attract the highest blessings. - Spiritual merit over worldly status: The reward sought is not just wealth, but recognition of spiritual accomplishment—a gift bestowed by the divine, not merely by human society. - Healthy aspiration: The idea that seeing someone blessed inspires others to seek higher virtues and deeper devotion.
Key Deities, Concepts, and Metaphors:
- Mitra and Varuna:
- Mitra symbolizes friendship, harmony, and social order.
- Varuna represents cosmic law, moral order, and the unseen spiritual truths.
- Together, they embody the balance of outer harmony and inner righteousness.
- The “reward” (meed):
- Not just material wealth, but spiritual grace, honor, and distinction.
- Envy (“stir envy”):
- Used metaphorically, it suggests that divine favor is so radiant that others are inspired to emulate it—not in a negative sense, but as a spur to their own growth.
Connection to Universal Experience and Modern Life:
This ancient prayer resonates today: - Seeking recognition: People still desire to be acknowledged—not just for wealth, but for integrity, wisdom, and contribution. - Aspiring for higher blessings: The verse reminds us that true fulfillment comes from aligning with higher principles and seeking the approval of conscience (or the divine), not just public acclaim. - Inspiring others: When we receive blessings through genuine effort and devotion, we become examples, motivating others to pursue their own spiritual journey.
Cultural/Historical Context:
In Vedic society, hymns were both personal and communal. Priests and poets sought divine favor not only for themselves but for their communities. Mitra and Varuna were central deities, guardians of moral and cosmic order. The desire for “meed” reflected a quest for both tangible support and intangible grace, necessary for well-being and societal harmony.
Reflection for the Modern Seeker:
- What are you seeking in life—material reward, or deeper fulfillment?
- Can your efforts and virtues inspire others to grow?
- Are you aligning your actions with universal principles of harmony and truth?
This verse invites you to offer your best—whether through words, actions, or devotion—and trust that sincere offerings bring the highest blessings, illuminating not just your own path but those around you.
In summary:
The poet asks Mitra and Varuna for a blessing so profound it inspires others—not out of rivalry, but as encouragement to seek higher truths. The verse teaches that spiritual distinction, earned through sincere devotion, is the greatest reward—and one that uplifts the whole community.
May your own song—your life, your efforts—be blessed and inspire others on their journey.
Commentary
Certainly! Let’s explore Rig Veda Book 5, Hymn 64, Verse 5 together.
Essential Meaning
This verse is a prayer, inviting the deities Mitra and Varuṇa—divine embodiments of friendship, harmony, and cosmic order—to come to the gathering with their radiant presence. The poet asks them to bless the homes of the generous and noble, and to help all friends and companions flourish.
Deeper Philosophical and Spiritual Significance
Mitra and Varuṇa are often invoked together in the Rig Veda. They represent complementary aspects of universal law: - Mitra: Symbolizes friendship, cooperation, harmony, and the gentle binding force that brings people together. - Varuṇa: Embodies moral order, truth, and the vast, all-seeing cosmic intelligence that maintains balance.
By inviting them, the hymn is not merely seeking material prosperity, but invoking the forces that uphold trust, justice, and collective well-being.
The verse recognizes that true thriving—both for individuals (“wealthy chiefs”) and communities (“friends/companions”)—depends not just on personal effort, but on the presence of these higher principles: integrity, unity, and grace.
Key Concepts and Symbolism
- Sudītibhih (fair splendours): The divine qualities or energies that Mitra and Varuṇa bring—light, order, harmony.
- Sadhastha (gathering/assembly): The sacred space where people come together, symbolizing both physical community and spiritual communion.
- Sve kṣaye (in their own dwelling/home): Implies both literal homes and the inner space of one’s heart or mind.
- Maghonām (wealthy/generous chiefs): Those who are noble, generous, and support the community.
- Sakhīnām (friends/companions): All those united in fellowship.
Universal Wisdom for Modern Life
This ancient prayer carries timeless truths: - Thriving together: True prosperity is not solitary; it blossoms in the company of friends, family, and community. - Inviting higher principles: Success and harmony arise when we consciously invite truth, justice, and friendship into our lives. - Sacred gatherings: Whether it’s a family, a team, or society at large, coming together with goodwill and shared purpose creates a field for grace and flourishing.
For a modern seeker, this verse is a reminder: - Build your home and community on trust, integrity, and kindness. - Invite the spirit of cooperation and moral clarity into all gatherings—be they personal, professional, or social. - Prosperity is not just material; it is the well-being that arises when relationships are guided by higher values.
Cultural and Historical Context
In Vedic times, hymns like this were recited during communal rituals, affirming the bonds that held society together. Mitra and Varuṇa were guardians of both the visible world and the invisible laws that sustain it. The “wealthy chiefs” were not just materially rich, but expected to be generous leaders who cared for others.
Reflection
As you read this verse, let it be an invitation to cultivate the qualities of Mitra and Varuṇa in your own life—to be a source of harmony and justice, to support others, and to thrive together in the light of shared goodness.
The eternal message:
When we invite the forces of friendship and cosmic order into our homes and hearts, we create a world where everyone can flourish.
May Mitra and Varuṇa’s fair splendours illuminate your gatherings, your relationships, and your inner life.
Commentary
Certainly! Let’s explore Rig Veda Book 5, Hymn 64, Verse 6:
Sanskrit (Romanized):
yuvaṃ no yeṣu varuṇa kṣatram bṛhac ca bibhṛthaḥ |
uru ṇo vājasātaye kṛtaṃ rāye svastaye
Griffith Translation:
With those, moreover, among whom ye hold your high supremacy, Vouchsafe us room that we may win strength for prosperity and wealth.
1. Essential Meaning in Simple, Contemporary Language
This verse is a prayer to the divine powers (specifically Varuṇa, a chief Vedic deity). The worshippers are asking:
“O Varuṇa, in the places and among the people where your great authority and protection are present, please grant us ample space and opportunity so we may gain strength, prosperity, and well-being.”
They seek the favor of Varuṇa so that their lives may be spacious, abundant, and blessed.
2. Deeper Philosophical & Spiritual Significance
At its heart, this verse is about seeking divine blessing for abundance and security. The poet recognizes that true prosperity comes not merely from personal effort, but from aligning oneself with the cosmic order and the will of higher powers.
Varuṇa, as the upholder of ṛta (cosmic law and order), is invoked to grant the worshippers an environment—both physical and spiritual—where they can thrive.
This reflects a profound wisdom:
- Human flourishing is not isolated; it is interwoven with the harmony of the greater universe.
- When we live in alignment with truth, order, and virtue, the space for growth and well-being naturally expands.
3. Key Deities, Concepts & Metaphors
- Varuṇa: Guardian of cosmic law (ṛta), integrity, and moral order. His “kṣatra” (dominion/authority) and “bṛhac” (greatness) represent divine sovereignty.
- Space (“uru”): Symbolizes freedom from limitation, opportunity, and room to grow—physically, mentally, spiritually.
- Strength & Prosperity (“vājasātaye,” “rāye”): Not just material wealth, but spiritual vigor and holistic well-being.
- Well-being (“svastaye”): A state of harmony, peace, and auspiciousness.
The verse thus uses Varuṇa’s guardianship as a metaphor for the protective and nurturing environment we need to fulfill our highest potential.
4. Connection to Universal Human Experience & Modern Life
Even today, we seek security, opportunity, and well-being—not only for ourselves, but for our communities.
- We desire spaces—literal and figurative—where we can grow, create, and prosper.
- We understand that order, justice, and integrity in society are essential for genuine progress.
This verse teaches us that: - Prosperity flourishes where there is justice, order, and moral authority. - We can invite abundance into our lives by aligning ourselves with principles of truth, fairness, and openness. - Seeking blessings for ourselves and others is a timeless human impulse, rooted in humility and gratitude.
5. Cultural & Historical Context
In Vedic times, the community’s well-being depended on harmony with cosmic forces—embodied by deities like Varuṇa. The prayer for “space” is both practical (land, resources) and spiritual (freedom from obstacles, inner peace).
Varuṇa’s “high supremacy” signifies the ideal of rulers and leaders upholding justice, enabling all to thrive. The hymn reflects the ancient understanding that the health of the community and the individual are inseparable from the moral order of the world.
6. Eternal Truths & Reflection for Today
This verse invites us to reflect: - Where do we seek space and opportunity in our lives? - How can we align ourselves with the principles of truth and justice, so that prosperity is sustainable and blessed? - Are we creating environments—at home, work, in society—where well-being can flourish for all?
In essence:
The ancient prayer is as relevant now as ever:
“May we be blessed with room to grow and prosper, under the protection of cosmic order and moral goodness. May our strength and wealth be rooted in harmony with the greater whole.”
Let this verse inspire us to seek both inner and outer abundance, guided by integrity, gratitude, and respect for the universal law that governs all life.
Commentary
Certainly! Let’s explore Rig Veda, Book 5, Hymn 64, Verse 7 in a way that brings its ancient wisdom to life for modern readers.
Essential Meaning (Simple Contemporary Language):
The verse describes the dawn, when the sky glows and divine energies awaken. The worshipper calls upon the sacred beings (likely the Ashvins, twin gods of healing and movement) to come swiftly—just as elephants rush or as swift-footed horses run—to partake in the Soma offering. The imagery is vibrant: radiant cows (symbols of abundance), the active feet of the divine heroes, and the sacred Soma juice awaiting their presence.
Deeper Philosophical or Spiritual Significance:
At its heart, the verse is an invocation—a heartfelt invitation to divine forces to enter the ritual space at the break of dawn. Dawn here is not just a time of day, but a metaphor for awakening, new beginnings, and the illumination of consciousness.
The act of inviting the gods to partake in Soma (a sacred drink symbolizing inspiration, ecstasy, and divine communion) reflects the human desire to connect with higher realms, to receive blessings, and to be energized with spiritual vitality. The “active feet” and the “rush” convey eagerness: divinity is not distant or passive, but responsive, dynamic, and ever-ready to bless those who seek with sincerity.
Key Deities, Concepts, and Metaphors:
- Ashvins: Often addressed as swift-moving twin gods, representing healing, transformation, and the power to overcome darkness.
- Dawn (Ushas): Symbolizes spiritual awakening, hope, and the dispelling of ignorance.
- Radiant cows: Symbols of abundance, nourishment, and purity in Vedic tradition.
- Soma: Both a sacred plant and drink, it represents ecstasy, divine inspiration, and the highest spiritual experience.
- Active movement (elephants, swift feet): Symbolizes readiness, power, and the unstoppable force of spiritual progress.
Connection to Universal Human Experience and Modern Life:
This verse speaks to the universal longing for renewal, inspiration, and connection with something greater. Just as the worshipper eagerly awaits the dawn and the arrival of the divine, so do we each day look for moments of inspiration, clarity, and energy to move forward in life.
The “pressed Soma juice” can be seen as a metaphor for any offering we make—be it our time, love, creativity, or service—inviting grace and guidance into our lives. The swift coming of the gods reminds us that when our hearts are open and intentions pure, help and inspiration can arrive unexpectedly and powerfully.
Cultural and Historical Context:
In ancient Vedic rituals, the dawn was a sacred time for ceremonies, especially those involving Soma. The imagery of cows, elephants, and swift movement reflects the agrarian and natural world of the Vedic people, where the cycles of nature and the presence of animals were deeply intertwined with spiritual life.
Bringing It All Together (A Reflection for Today):
This verse invites us to begin each day with openness to grace, with eagerness for renewal, and with the willingness to offer our best to the divine. It teaches that spiritual progress is not a slow, uncertain process—when we call out with sincerity, the divine responds swiftly, bringing energy, healing, and abundance.
In your own life, consider: - How do you greet each new day? - What “Soma”—your unique gift or offering—do you present to the world? - Are you ready, like the Ashvins, to move swiftly toward inspiration and purpose?
May the light of dawn, the rush of divine energy, and the abundance of the sacred fill your journey each day.
Commentary
Certainly. Let’s unfold the meaning and wisdom of Rig Veda, Book 5, Hymn 64, Verse 1.
Sanskrit: वरुणं वो रिशादसम रचा मित्रं हवामहे |
परि वरजेव बाह्वोर जगन्वांसा सवर्णरम
Romanized: varuṇaṃ vo riśādasam ṛcā mitraṃ havāmahe |
pari vrajeva bāhvor jaghanvāṃsā svarṇaram
1. Essential Meaning in Simple Language
“We invoke Varuna, the mighty and majestic, and Mitra with our hymn;
Like a runner, we move around (protected) by their arms, seeking the radiance of the Sun.”
In essence:
The verse is a prayer, inviting the divine powers of Varuna (god of cosmic order) and Mitra (god of friendship and harmony). The worshipper seeks their protection and guidance, describing themselves as moving freely and safely under the shelter of these deities, aspiring towards the light and truth.
2. Deeper Wisdom or Teaching
This hymn expresses a profound trust in the forces of cosmic order and benevolence. Varuna represents universal law, moral order, and the vastness of the sky. Mitra stands for friendship, accord, and unity.
By invoking these two together, the verse teaches that true security and growth come from living in harmony with both the universal laws (Varuna) and with fellow beings (Mitra). The image of moving “like a runner” under their arms suggests active engagement with life, but always sheltered by the embrace of truth and friendship.
Seeking the “radiance of the Sun” (svarṇaram) symbolizes aspiring towards enlightenment, clarity, and truth.
3. Key Deities, Concepts, and Metaphors
4. Connection to Modern Life
This verse invites us to reflect:
- Are we living in alignment with universal principles of truth and justice (Varuna)?
- Are we nurturing genuine relationships of respect and harmony (Mitra)?
- Do we feel protected and supported as we strive towards greater clarity and wisdom (the Sun)?
In today’s world, where chaos and disconnection often prevail, this ancient prayer reminds us that real progress and safety are found by harmonizing our actions with both moral principles and compassionate relationships. Our journey towards enlightenment is guided and protected when we honor both cosmic order and human connection.
5. Cultural and Historical Context
Varuna and Mitra are among the oldest Vedic deities, often invoked together as upholders of ṛta—the cosmic order. In Vedic society, living in accord with ṛta was seen as the foundation of peace, prosperity, and personal fulfillment.
The metaphor of a runner is apt for the ancient Vedic worldview, where life is a dynamic journey, and the gods are not distant, but actively shelter and guide us.
6. A Reflection for the Modern Seeker
This verse is both a prayer and a reminder: As you move through life’s challenges (“like a runner”), seek the protection and guidance of truth (Varuna) and friendship (Mitra). Aspire always towards the light—towards wisdom, clarity, and understanding.
Just as the Vedic sages did, you can find confidence and shelter in the arms of cosmic order and loving harmony. When you do, the radiance of realization and joy will naturally illuminate your path.
In summary:
Invoke truth and friendship in your life. Trust in the protection and guidance they offer, and move confidently towards the light of wisdom. This is the eternal message of the Veda, as relevant now as it was thousands of years ago.