Sukta 153
Sukta 10.153
Traditionally a late Vedic seer (RV 10.153 Indra hymn; exact attribution varies—external confirmation required)
Indra
Gāyatrī or Anuṣṭubh-like short meter (verse is short; exact meter requires pada count verification)
This short Indra hymn praises the god’s newly awakened presence among the active “doers of the work,” who approach him to partake of heroic power (suvīrya). It recalls Indra’s classic cosmic feats—slaying Vṛtra, widening the mid-space, and propping up heaven—then culminates in declaring him the overmastering force who surpasses all beings by ojas (concentrated might). The hymn’s purpose is to invoke Indra’s victorious energy for protection, strength, and successful accomplishment.
Mantras
Mantra 1
ईङ्खयन्तीरपस्युव इन्द्रं जातमुपासते । भेजानासः सुवीर्यम् ॥
Stirring forward, the doers of the work draw near to Indra newly born (in them); they share in his noble hero-force.
Mantra 2
त्वमिन्द्र बलादधि सहसो जात ओजसः । त्वं वृषन्वृषेदसि ॥
You, O Indra, are born from strength upon strength, from might, from energy. You are the Bull, the very seat of the Bull-force.
Mantra 3
त्वमिन्द्रासि वृत्रहा व्यन्तरिक्षमतिरः । उद्द्यामस्तभ्ना ओजसा ॥
You, O Indra, are the Vṛtra-slayer; you have passed through and widened the mid-world. With your energy you upheld the heaven above.
Mantra 4
त्वमिन्द्र सजोषसमर्कं बिभर्षि बाह्वोः । वज्रं शिशान ओजसा ॥
O Indra, thou bearest in thy arms the hymn that is in perfect accord (with the Truth); and, sharpening the thunderbolt by thy inherent force, thou makest it a power for the inner battle.
Mantra 5
त्वमिन्द्राभिभूरसि विश्वा जातान्योजसा । स विश्वा भुव आभवः ॥
Thou, O Indra, art the overmastering power; by thy concentrated energy thou surpassest all that is born, and thou becomest the wide support and mastery of all the worlds of becoming.
Frequently Asked Questions
In Vedic praise, a god can be “born” in the ritual—meaning his power becomes freshly manifest through worship, offering, and inner awakening in the devotees.
Indra’s power removes obstruction (Vṛtra), expands the space for life and action, and grants heroic strength (suvīrya) and mastery (ojas) to those who approach him.
It can be recited as a brief prayer for courage, success in work, and protection—especially in a morning fire offering or a simple recitation with a focused intention.