Two perfect flames of heat permeate the Threefold, and come for their delight is Mātariśvan. Seeking the nectar of heaven, the Gods are present: they well know the praise-song and the Sāman.
The priests, far away as they are ordered, serve the three Nirrtis; for well they know them. Sage scribes traced the cause that first produced them, dwelling in distant and mysterious chambers.
The Youthful One, well-formed, with four braided locks, brightened with oil, puts on the ordinances. Two mighty Birds sit near her, where the Deities receive their share.
One of these Birds has entered the ocean of air; from there he looks around and views the universal world. With a simple heart, I have seen him close at hand; his Mother kisses him, and he returns her kiss.
Though One in nature, wise singers shape him, with songs, in many figures. While they set the metrical rules at sacrifices, they measure out twelve cups of Soma.
As they arrange the four and six-and-thirty, and duly order, up to twelve, the measures, They thoughtfully send the Chariot forward with the Rc and Sāman.
The Chariot's majesties are fourteen others: seven sages lead it onward with their voices. Who will declare to us the ford Apnana, the path by which they drink the first draughts of Soma?
In a thousand places, the fifteen lauds are scattered, as vast as heaven and earth in measure. A thousand spots contain the mighty thousand. Vāk spreads forth as far as Prayer extends.
What sage has learned the meters' application? Who has gained Vāk, the spirit's aim and object? Which ministering priest is called the Eighth Hero? Who then has tracked the two Bay Steeds of Indra?
Yoked to his chariot-pole stood the Coursers; they only travel round earth’s farthest limits. These, when their driver settles in his home, receive the allotted reward of their efforts.