Rig Veda 8.36 - Indra
- Primary deity
- Indra
- Rishi family
- Kanva and Angirasa families
- Verses
- 7
- Location
- Mandala 8, Sukta 36
This Sukta is the 36th hymn of Mandala 8, a book of 103 hymns known as The Kanva and Angirasa Mandala. Its 7 verses are addressed chiefly to Indra, and are given here in Devanagari, IAST transliteration and Griffith’s English rendering. By tradition the hymns of this Mandala belong to Kanva and Angirasa families.
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 8.36.2 in depth, making its wisdom clear and relevant for you.
Essential Meaning (Simple Language)
This verse is an invocation to Indra, the mighty god of strength and abundance (often called Maghavan and Śatakratu). The worshipper asks Indra to support those who sing his praises, and in return, invites Indra to drink the sacred Soma offered for his delight. The verse mentions “the share which they have fixed for thee,” referring to the portion of Soma ritually set aside for Indra.
In essence:
The devotee is calling upon Indra, asking for his blessing and support, while offering him the Soma as a token of devotion and partnership.
Deeper Philosophical or Spiritual Significance
At its heart, this verse reflects a reciprocal relationship between the divine and humanity. The worshipper honors Indra, and in turn, seeks Indra’s help and favor. The act of offering Soma (a sacred drink symbolizing inspiration, ecstasy, and divine connection) is both a gesture of reverence and an invitation for divine presence.
Key teaching:
Spiritual life is not a one-sided plea for blessings; it’s a mutual exchange. When we celebrate and honor the sacred—through devotion, gratitude, and offerings—the divine responds, empowering us and sharing in our joy.
Key Deities, Concepts, and Metaphors
- Indra (Maghavan, Śatakratu): Indra is the archetype of strength, victory, and generosity. He is the divine force that helps overcome obstacles and brings abundance.
- Maghavan means “the generous one.”
- Śatakratu means “having a hundred powers/deeds,” symbolizing boundless energy.
- Soma: A sacred drink, both physical and symbolic, representing divine inspiration, bliss, and spiritual exhilaration.
- Share (Bhāga): The allotted portion, reflecting the idea of ritual order and fairness in giving and receiving.
Symbolically:
The verse uses the offering of Soma as a metaphor for sharing joy and spiritual energy with the divine. It reminds us that the sacred is not distant, but actively participates in our life when invited with sincerity.
Connection to Universal Human Experience and Modern Life
Even today, relationships—whether with people or with the sacred—are built on mutual respect and exchange. When we express gratitude, honor our sources of inspiration, and make offerings (of time, effort, or devotion), we create a living connection that uplifts both giver and receiver.
For a modern seeker:
- This verse encourages you to approach life as a partnership with the higher forces—whether you see these as divinity, nature, or inner inspiration.
- It teaches that joy and strength are amplified when shared, and that sincere praise and offerings can invoke support and blessings in your journey.
- Rituals and mindful acts—big or small—can serve as bridges between your aspirations and the world’s abundant energies.
Cultural or Historical Context
In the ancient Vedic world, Soma was not just a drink but a symbol of divine ecstasy and cosmic order. Offerings to Indra were central to Vedic rituals, representing a harmonious balance between human effort and divine grace.
The verse reflects:
- The ancient understanding that the universe is relational, not transactional.
- The importance of honoring and acknowledging the forces that sustain us.
Reflections for Today
Ask yourself:
- What do I offer to the sources of strength and inspiration in my life?
- How can I cultivate a sense of partnership—with the sacred, with others, and with the world itself?
Let this verse remind you:
Gratitude, reverence, and joyful sharing are timeless ways to invite abundance and support into your life. The divine responds where there is sincerity, celebration, and a willingness to give as well as receive.
In the words of the Rig Veda, may your offerings—of devotion, effort, and joy—be received, and may you find support and delight in the sacred partnership with life itself.
Commentary
Certainly! Let’s unfold the wisdom of Rig Veda Book 8, Hymn 36, Verse 3:
Sanskrit (Devanagari):
ऊर्जा देवानवस्योजसा तवां पिबा सोमं मदाय कं शतक्रतो |
यं ते भागं …
Romanized:
ūrjā devānavasyojasā tvāṃ pibā somaṃ madāya kaṃ śatakrato |
yaṃ te bhāghaṃ …
Griffith Translation:
Thou aidest Gods with food, and that with might aids thee, O Śatakratu, drink Soma to make thee glad.
1. Essential Meaning in Simple Language
The verse is an invocation to Indra (called Śatakratu, “the hundred-powered”), inviting him to drink the sacred Soma. It acknowledges Indra’s role in empowering and sustaining the gods (“you aid the gods with nourishment/energy”), and affirms that this very strength also benefits Indra himself. The act of drinking Soma is associated with joy and power.
2. Deeper Philosophical or Spiritual Significance
At its core, this verse reveals a beautiful cycle of reciprocity: the energy and strength we share with others returns to us, nourishing and empowering us in turn.
The Soma drink, symbolic of divine inspiration and ecstasy, is here presented as both the source of joy and the sustainer of power. Indra’s act of drinking Soma is not just for his own pleasure, but also to renew his strength to serve the cosmic order.
Spiritually, it teaches that when we participate in the flow of giving and receiving—whether it is energy, nourishment, wisdom, or joy—we become both benefactor and beneficiary. The universe operates on mutual support.
3. Key Deities, Concepts, and Metaphors
- Indra (Śatakratu): The chief Vedic deity, symbolizing strength, courage, and leadership. “Śatakratu” means “hundred-powered,” highlighting his immense capacity for action and accomplishment.
- Soma: Both a physical ritual drink and a metaphor for divine inspiration, bliss, and life-force.
- Nourishment/Energy (ūrjā): Represents the sustenance given to gods, but also the spiritual nourishment we all share.
- Reciprocity: The idea that giving and receiving are intertwined; what we offer comes back to us.
4. Connection to Universal Human Experience & Modern Life
This verse speaks to a timeless truth: when we support and uplift others, we ourselves are strengthened. In relationships, communities, and society, the act of nurturing is never one-sided. The joy and energy we help create in others returns to us, enriching our own lives.
In modern terms, this could relate to the importance of teamwork, service, and compassion. Whether in families, workplaces, or society, the cycle of mutual support is what sustains and empowers us all.
5. Cultural and Historical Context
In Vedic rituals, Soma was central to the sacred ceremonies, believed to confer vitality and divine favor. Indra, as king of the gods, was celebrated for his might, but also for his role in sustaining cosmic harmony. The act of offering Soma to Indra was both a literal and symbolic gesture of maintaining the well-being of all.
6. Accessible, Inspiring Reflection
This ancient verse invites us to reflect on the cycles of giving and receiving in our own lives. Just as Indra drinks Soma to be gladdened and empowered—so that he may in turn support the gods—we too are called to partake in sources of inspiration, joy, and nourishment, not merely for ourselves, but so we may better serve and uplift others.
Eternal Message:
True strength comes not from hoarding energy, but from generously participating in the flow of life. In uplifting others, we are uplifted. In sharing joy, we are made joyful. The divine cycle is one of mutual nourishment and gladness.
Let this verse remind us:
Nourish others with your energy, partake in what inspires you, and know that the joy and strength you share will return to you, sustaining the greater harmony.
Commentary
Certainly. Let’s explore Rig Veda, Book 8, Hymn 36, Verse 4:
Sanskrit:
जनिता दिवो जनिता पर्थिव्याः पिबा सोमं मदाय कं शतक्रतो |
(Partial verse, as given)
Translation:
“Creator of the heaven, creator of the earth, O Śatakratu, drink Soma to make thee glad.”
1. Essential Meaning in Simple, Contemporary Language
This verse is an invocation to Indra, the mighty Vedic deity often called Śatakratu (meaning ‘having a hundred powers or deeds’). The poet reverently addresses Indra as the creator of heaven and earth, inviting him to drink the sacred Soma—a ritual beverage—so that he may be filled with joy and strength.
2. Deeper Philosophical or Spiritual Significance
Indra as Creator:
Calling Indra the “creator of heaven and earth” is not just a literal statement—it’s a poetic way of recognizing the divine power that shapes and sustains the universe. It’s an acknowledgment that behind all creation, there is a dynamic, conscious force.
Soma as Divine Elixir:
Soma, here, symbolizes not just a physical drink, but the essence of inspiration, ecstasy, and spiritual vitality. Inviting the deity to partake in Soma is a metaphor for invoking divine joy and wisdom into our lives.
Joy as Sacred:
The act of making the divine “glad” with Soma reflects the Vedic understanding that joy, celebration, and spiritual intoxication are not merely human experiences, but have cosmic significance. When the divine is pleased, the whole world is nourished.
3. Key Deities, Concepts, Metaphors
- Indra (Śatakratu): Chief among the Vedic gods, symbolizing strength, courage, and the power to overcome obstacles.
- Creator of Heaven and Earth: Symbolizes the unity and interconnectedness of all creation under divine order.
- Soma: Represents spiritual inspiration, bliss, and the nectar of immortality. In rituals, it’s both a physical offering and a symbol of the highest joy.
4. Connection to Universal Human Experience and Modern Life
This verse invites us to see the divine as intimately connected to creation, and to recognize that joy and celebration can be sacred acts. In modern terms, it’s a reminder that:
- Creativity and joy are divine: When we create, celebrate, and seek inspiration, we participate in the cosmic dance.
- Inviting inspiration: Just as Indra is invited to drink Soma, we too can invite inspiration, strength, and joy into our lives through ritual, reflection, or mindful living.
- Gratitude and reverence: Honoring the source of our blessings, whether we call it God, Nature, or Consciousness, fills life with meaning.
5. Cultural and Historical Context
In Vedic rituals, Soma was offered to the gods to invoke their blessings and presence. Indra, as the recipient, is not just a distant deity, but a symbol of the divine power within and around us. This verse reflects the Vedic worldview—where the boundaries between human, nature, and the divine are fluid, and where ritual is a way to harmonize with cosmic forces.
6. Bringing the Eternal Truth to Light
Reflection for Today:
This verse teaches us that the universe is alive with divine presence, and that joy, creativity, and celebration are pathways to connect with that presence. We are invited to honor the creative force both within and beyond ourselves, and to make our lives a sacred offering—full of purpose, gratitude, and delight.
In summary:
“Recognize the sacred creativity that shapes your world. Invite joy and inspiration into your life. Celebrate creation as a divine act, and let your gratitude nourish both yourself and the universe.”
May these ancient words inspire you to find the divine in your own acts of creation, and to celebrate the joy that is your birthright.
Commentary
Certainly. Let’s explore Rig Veda Book 8, Hymn 36, Verse 5 in depth, making its ancient wisdom clear and relevant to today’s reader.
Sanskrit Verse (partial):
जनिताश्वानां जनिता गवामसि पिबा सोमं मदाय कं शतक्रतो |
janitāśvānāṃ janitā ghavāmasi pibā somaṃ madāya kaṃ śatakrato
Griffith Translation:
Father of cattle, father of all steeds art thou. O Śatakratu, drink Soma to make thee glad.
1. Essential Meaning in Simple Terms
The verse is an invocation to Indra, the mighty Vedic deity, addressed here as Śatakratu (“the one of a hundred powers/deeds”). The seer praises Indra as the creator or originator (“father”) of horses and cattle—symbols of abundance, power, and sustenance. The poet invites Indra to drink the sacred Soma, a ritual beverage, to become joyful and energized.
In essence:
“O Indra, you who have brought forth horses and cattle for humanity, please accept and drink the Soma offered to you, so you may be gladdened and empowered.”
2. Deeper Philosophical or Spiritual Significance
Creation and Sustenance:
Calling Indra the “father” of horses and cattle is more than a literal statement. It acknowledges the divine source of all material wealth, strength, and nourishment. In the Vedic worldview, the gods are not just distant beings, but active principles behind the prosperity and vitality of the world.
Ritual Reciprocity:
The act of offering Soma to Indra is a gesture of gratitude and connection—humans honor the divine, and in turn, the divine blesses humanity. This reflects a central Vedic principle: ṛta, the cosmic order maintained by reciprocal relationships.
Inner Joy and Strength:
Soma, while a physical offering, is also a symbol of inner joy, inspiration, and spiritual ecstasy. To “drink Soma” is to partake in the divine delight, to be uplifted by sacred energy.
3. Key Deities, Concepts, and Symbols
- Indra / Śatakratu: The chief Vedic god of power, rain, and victory. “Śatakratu” highlights his limitless capacities.
- Horses and Cattle: Represent strength, mobility, wealth, and nourishment.
- Soma: Both a sacred plant/juice and a symbol of divine inspiration, bliss, and heightened consciousness.
- Fatherhood: Symbolizes creative power, nurturing, and the origin of life.
4. Connection to Universal Human Experience and Modern Life
Gratitude for Abundance:
Just as ancient people honored the source of their sustenance, modern seekers can reflect on the origins of their own well-being—be it nature, community, or inner strength—and approach life with gratitude.
Reciprocal Relationship:
The verse reminds us of the importance of reciprocity: giving thanks, making offerings (literal or symbolic), and recognizing that our prosperity is intertwined with forces beyond ourselves.
Seeking Joy and Inspiration:
The invitation to “drink Soma” can be understood as a call to seek that which uplifts our spirit—whether through meditation, creativity, or meaningful connection—and to share that joy with the world.
5. Cultural and Historical Context
In Vedic society, cattle and horses were central to livelihood and ritual. Soma rituals were among the most sacred, believed to vitalize both gods and humans. Indra’s role as the bringer of rain and prosperity made him a natural focus for hymns seeking abundance and protection.
6. Contemporary Reflection
This verse, though ancient, speaks a timeless truth:
- Honor and recognize the sources of your abundance.
- Offer gratitude, and seek to connect with the divine or the deeper forces of life.
- Allow yourself to be renewed and gladdened by moments of inspiration and joy.
In summary:
The Rig Veda’s hymn reminds us that all strength and sustenance ultimately flow from a higher source. By honoring that source—whether conceived as a deity, nature, or the inner spark of life—we nourish a relationship that brings joy, abundance, and meaning. The call to “drink Soma” is an invitation to embrace the sacred, to rejoice, and to let gratitude and inspiration transform our daily lives.
May this ancient prayer inspire you to acknowledge the gifts in your life, honor their source, and celebrate the joy that comes from such recognition.
Commentary
Certainly! Let’s explore Rig Veda Book 8, Hymn 36, Verse 6 with reverence and clarity.
Sanskrit (Devanagari):
अत्रीणां सतोममद्रिवो महस कर्धि पिबा सोमं मदाय कंशतक्रतो | यं ते भागं …
Romanized:
atrīṇāṃ stomamadrivo mahas kṛdhi pibā somaṃ madāya kaṃśatakrato | yaṃ te bhāghaṃ …
Griffith Translation:
Stone-hurler, glorify the Atris’ hymn of praise. O Śatakratu, drink Soma to make thee glad.
1. Essential Meaning in Simple Terms
This verse is an invocation addressed to Indra, the mighty Vedic deity. The singers, identified as the Atris (a revered family of sages), offer their hymn of praise and invite Indra—here called “Stone-hurler” and “Śatakratu” (meaning “doer of a hundred deeds”)—to partake in the sacred Soma drink. They ask Indra to accept their offering, be pleased, and bless them in return.
2. Deeper Philosophical or Spiritual Significance
At its heart, this verse expresses the relationship between human devotion and divine grace. The act of singing hymns and offering Soma is symbolic of sincere effort and aspiration. The request for Indra to “make thee glad” by drinking Soma shows that human beings seek to nourish the divine within themselves through acts of reverence and offering.
Spiritually, Soma can represent both the literal sacred drink and the inner elixir of joy, inspiration, and spiritual ecstasy. The hymn thus becomes an allegory for awakening divine consciousness and inviting higher wisdom into one’s life.
3. Key Deities, Concepts, and Metaphors
- Indra: The principal Vedic god, symbolizing strength, courage, and the ability to overcome obstacles. “Stone-hurler” refers to his legendary feat of slaying the serpent Vritra by hurling stones, freeing the rivers (symbol of abundance and flow).
- Śatakratu: “Doer of a hundred deeds,” highlighting Indra’s power and the multitude of blessings he can bestow.
- Soma: Both a sacred ritual drink and a metaphor for divine ecstasy or inspiration.
- Atris: The sage family offering the hymn, representing the human quest for connection to the divine.
4. Connecting to Modern Life and Universal Experience
Today, this verse invites us to reflect on the power of sincere effort and devotion—whether in spiritual practice, creative work, or any pursuit of excellence. Just as the Atris offer their best to Indra, we are reminded to offer our highest intentions and heartfelt actions to the world and to the divine within us.
Indra’s acceptance of the offering symbolizes that when we give wholeheartedly, the universe responds with joy and grace. The Soma, in modern terms, can be seen as the inner joy and fulfillment that comes from living in alignment with our highest values.
5. Cultural and Historical Context
In Vedic culture, the ritual of offering Soma and hymns was not merely ceremonial but a profound act of communion with the cosmic forces. The Atris, as ancient sages, represent the lineage of wisdom and transmission of spiritual knowledge. Indra’s role as a heroic figure reflects the human struggle against adversity and the triumph of light over darkness.
6. Accessible, Inspiring Reflection
This verse teaches that when we offer our devotion, creativity, and gratitude—our own “hymns”—with sincerity, we invite the energies of strength, joy, and inspiration into our lives. The ancient ritual becomes a metaphor for every act where the human heart seeks to touch the divine, and in doing so, receives back that divine gladness, nourishing us to continue our journey.
In summary:
“Offer your best, with sincerity and devotion, and the universe responds. The act of giving—be it praise, effort, or love—awakens joy and strength within and around us. The ancient wisdom of the Rig Veda reminds us that the sacred is not distant, but is invoked and made glad by our heartfelt offerings each day.”
May this verse inspire you to honor the sacred in your own life, to offer your best with an open heart, and to receive the joy and strength that flows in response.
Commentary
Rig Veda, Book 8, Hymn 36, Verse 7
Essential Meaning in Simple, Contemporary Language
This verse is a prayer to Indra, the mighty Vedic deity. The poet, Śyāvāśva, asks Indra to listen to his offerings, just as Indra listened to the ancient sage Atri when he performed sacred rituals. The verse recalls how Indra alone came to the aid of Trasadasyu, a heroic king, in battle—strengthening his prayers and helping him overcome his enemies.
Deeper Philosophical or Spiritual Significance
At its heart, the verse celebrates the reciprocal relationship between the devotee and the divine. It acknowledges that sincere prayer and ritual, when performed with devotion, attract divine attention and support. The stories of Atri and Trasadasyu are invoked as examples: their faith and actions drew Indra’s grace, leading to victory and fulfillment.
Spiritually, this teaches us that the divine responds to genuine effort, courage, and heartfelt worship. Indra’s intervention is not arbitrary—it is drawn by human sincerity, righteousness, and the desire for help in times of struggle.
Key Deities, Concepts, and Metaphors
- Indra: Symbolizes power, protection, and the force that overcomes obstacles. He is the champion of the righteous.
- Śyāvāśva: The poet, representing the seeker or devotee, seeking divine favor through ritual and prayer.
- Atri: An ancient sage, symbolizing wisdom and the efficacy of spiritual practice.
- Trasadasyu: A legendary king, an exemplar of human valor and leadership, aided by the divine in his hour of need.
- Prayers (Brahmāṇi): Not just ritual words, but expressions of the soul’s yearning and strength.
Universal Lessons for Modern Life
This ancient verse offers timeless guidance for anyone facing challenges. It reminds us: - Sincerity matters: Like Atri and Trasadasyu, when we approach life’s battles—whether external or internal—with honest effort and heartfelt intention, we draw upon a higher support. - Help comes when we ask: There is value in seeking aid, whether from the divine, community, or inner strength. - Stories inspire: The remembering of past heroes and sages connects us with a lineage of courage and faith, encouraging us to trust in the process and persist. - Prayer and action: Both are needed—prayer alone is incomplete without action, and action is strengthened by spiritual connection.
Cultural and Historical Context
In Vedic society, hymns like this were part of a living tradition of ritual and storytelling. They were sung during ceremonies to invoke blessings, recount heroic deeds, and remind the community of the bond between humans and the divine. Such verses helped preserve the values of courage, devotion, and gratitude.
Contemporary Reflection
For the modern seeker, this verse is a call to remember that you are not alone in your struggles. Whether facing personal, professional, or spiritual battles, approach them with sincerity, seek support, and invoke your deepest values. The universe—however you conceive of the divine—responds to genuine intent and brave action.
In essence:
“As the heroes and sages of old drew strength from the divine through prayer and courageous deeds, so too can you. Let your intentions be pure, your efforts sincere, and know that help is near when you call upon it with an open heart.”
Commentary
Certainly. Let’s explore Rig Veda Book 8, Hymn 36, Verse 1 with reverence and clarity.
Sanskrit (Devanagari):
अवितासि सुन्वतो वर्क्तबर्हिषः पिबा सोमं मदाय कं शतक्रतो |
यं ते भागमधारयन विश्वाः सेहानः पर्तना उरु जरयः समप्सुजिन मरुत्वानिन्द्र सत्पते ||
Romanized:
avitāsi sunvato vṛktabarhiṣaḥ pibā somaṃ madāya kaṃ śatakrato |
yaṃ te bhāghamadhārayan viśvāḥ sehānaḥ pṛtanā uru jrayaḥ samapsujin marutvānindra satpate ||
1. Essential Meaning in Simple, Contemporary Language
“O Indra, protector of the one who pours the Soma and prepares the sacred altar, drink this Soma for your delight, O hundred-powered one! For all the hosts of warriors, all the battles, and all the vast victories have been assigned to you as your share. O Indra, Lord of Truth, accompanied by the Maruts, you are the conqueror in the waters and in strife.”
2. Deeper Philosophical and Spiritual Significance
This verse is an invocation to Indra, the chief deity of the Rig Veda, asking him to partake of the Soma offering. Indra is praised not just for his power but for being the sustainer and protector of those who perform sacred rituals with sincerity. The verse acknowledges Indra’s dominion over victory, battles, and cosmic order, and his companionship with the Maruts (storm deities).
At its heart, the verse teaches that sincere offerings and dedicated effort are blessed and protected by higher forces. The act of making offerings (here, Soma) symbolizes devotion, aspiration, and the willingness to connect with the divine. Indra’s acceptance of the Soma is a metaphor for the reciprocal relationship between human aspiration and divine grace.
3. Key Deities, Concepts, and Metaphors
4. Connection to Universal Human Experience and Modern Life
We all strive, face challenges, and seek support or grace in our endeavors. This verse reminds us that:
5. Cultural and Historical Context
In Vedic times, Soma rituals were central to spiritual and communal life, symbolizing the connection between humans and the divine. Indra, as the archetype of the hero, was invoked as a model for strength, leadership, and overcoming adversity. The verse reflects a worldview where the divine is actively involved in human affairs, and spiritual practice is inseparable from daily life.
6. Inspiring Reflection for Modern Seekers
This verse invites us to:
In summary:
This ancient hymn reminds us that sincere dedication, mindful preparation, and openness to grace are timeless pathways to strength and success. By invoking our inner Indra—the hero within—we draw upon universal energies to overcome obstacles and achieve fulfillment, not just for ourselves, but for the greater good.
May this wisdom illuminate your journey and inspire you to offer your best, trust in support, and create sacredness in your life.