Sukta 178
Sukta 10.178
Tārkṣya
This brief two-verse hymn invokes Tārkṣya as a swift, divinely-driven protector who ensures safe passage and victory amid the hazards of travel and conflict. The poet asks for well-being (svasti), comparing the sought-for support to Indra’s gift and to a boat that carries one safely across, unharmed in coming or going.
Mantras
Mantra 1
त्यमू षु वाजिनं देवजूतं सहावानं तरुतारं रथानाम् । अरिष्टनेमिं पृतनाजमाशुं स्वस्तये तार्क्ष्यमिहा हुवेम ॥
That swift bearer of plenitude, driven by the gods, victorious and overcoming in the rush of our chariots—unbroken in wheel, conquering in battle—Tārkṣya we call here for our well-being and right passage.
Mantra 2
इन्द्रस्येव रातिमाजोहुवानाः स्वस्तये नावमिवा रुहेम । उर्वी न पृथ्वी बहुले गभीरे मा वामेतौ मा परेतौ रिषाम ॥
Calling for the gift as from Indra, may we mount it like a boat for our well-being. Vast as the broad deep earth—may we not be harmed, neither in coming nor in going, on this passage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tārkṣya is praised as a swift, divinely-driven protector—like a champion who keeps the ‘wheel unbroken’ and helps one pass safely through danger, especially in travel or conflict.
The hymn repeatedly asks for svasti—well-being and safe passage—so that the worshipper is not harmed during the journey, neither when going out nor when returning.
The ‘boat’ image suggests crossing safely over risky conditions, while Indra is named as a model of generous, effective aid—so the poet asks for similarly reliable protection and support.