I was once Manu, I am Surya: I am the sage Kakṣīvān, holy singer. Kutsa, son of Arjuna, I mastered. I am the wise Uśanā, behold me.
I gave the earth to the Arya, and rain to the man who offers sacrifice. I led forth the roaring waters, and the gods moved according to my will.
In the joy of Soma, I demolished Śambara's fortresses, ninety-nine and one; And, utterly, the hundredth dwelling, when aiding Divodāsa Atithigva.
Before all birds, rank them this bird, O Maruts; supreme among falcons, this swift-winged falcon, Because, with strong wings, unburdened by a chariot, it brought the divine offering to Manu.
When the bird brought it, swiftly it was sent on the wide path, fleet as thought it hurried. Swiftly it returned with the sweetness of Soma, and thus the falcon acquired its glory.
With the stalk, the falcon sped onward, the bird bringing draught from afar that delights, Friend of the gods, it brought the Soma, grasped fast from the loftiest heaven.
The falcon took and brought the Soma, bearing a thousand libations with him, indeed ten thousand. The Bold One left behind the Malignities, wise in the joy of Soma, left the foolish behind.