Sukta 83
Rishi: RV-derived seer attribution (AV 20 borrowing); depends on RV locus.
Devata: Indra
Chandas: Anuṣṭubh-like (protective formula style); exact scansion depends on recension/edition.
Mantras
Mantra 1
इन्द्र त्रिधातु शरणं त्रिवरूथं स्वस्तिमत्। छर्दिर्यच्छ मघवद्भ्यश्च मह्यं च यावया दिद्युमेभ्यः
Indra, a refuge firmly set in threefold wise, a triple rampart rich in welfare—grant thou thy covering both to the bounteous and to me; drive thou away the flashing (foes) from us.
Mantra 2
ये गव्यता मनसा शत्रुमादभुरभिप्रघ्नन्ति धृष्णुया। अघ स्मा नो मघवन्निन्द्र गिर्वणस्तनूपा अन्तमो भव
They who, with mind set on cattle, have assailed the foe and smite him down with daring—then, for us, O bounteous Indra, hymn-delighting, be thou the nearest guardian of our very bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions
It asks Indra to become a threefold protective refuge and to drive away violent, ‘flashing’ threats, while guarding the reciter’s body at the closest level.
The ‘triple’ imagery emphasizes layered, stable protection—Indra is envisioned as a fortified shelter surrounding the person and the group from multiple sides.
No. The hymn functions as a verbal/mental protective charm; it can be recited with simple purity practices and focused intention, especially before travel or during fear of attack.