The Rig Veda/Mandala 7/Hymn 87

1. VARUNA cut a pathway out for Surya, and led the watery floods of rivers onward. The Mares, as in a race, speed on in order. He made great channels for the days to follow. 2. The wind, thy breath, hath sounded through the region like a wild beast that seeks his food in pastures. Within these two, exalted Earth and Heaven, O Varuna, are all the forms thou lovest. 3. Varuna's spies, sent forth upon their errand, survey the two world-halves well formed and fashioned. Wise are they, holy, skilled in sacrifices, the furtherers of the praise-songs of the prudent. 4. To me who understand hath Varuna spoken, the names borne by the Cow are three times seven. The sapient God, knowing the place's secret, shall speak as 'twere to teach the race that cometh. 5. On him three heavens rest and are supported, and the three earths are there in sixfold order. The wise King Varuna hath made in heaven that Golden Swing to cover it with glory. 6. Like Varuna from heaven he sinks in Sindhu, like a white-shining spark, a strong wild creature. Ruling in depths and meting out the region, great saving power hath he, this world's Controller. 7. Before this Varuna may we be sinless him who shows mercy even to the sinner- While we are keeping Aditi's ordinances. Preserve us evermore, ye Gods, with blessings.