Sukta 96
Kanda 6Anuvaka 10Sukta 963 Mantras

Sukta 96

Rishi: Atharvanic tradition (exact r̥ṣi not specified in the provided excerpt)

Devata: Soma (as pāvaka/purifier)

Chandas: Anuṣṭubh (probable; common for such expiatory verses)

Mantras

Frequently Asked Questions

Both together. The hymn treats suffering as linked with aṃhas/devakilbiṣa (harmful taint or offense) and seeks healing through herbal power plus ritual purification by Soma.

Varuṇa and Yama represent binding constraints—punitive fetters and the death-snare. The mantra asks to be released from these ‘bonds,’ a common Atharvanic way to speak about severe illness or fate-like affliction.

Prepare clean water or a mild herbal infusion, recite 6.96.1 over it, then sprinkle or sip while reciting 6.96.2–3, focusing on release from burdens and Soma’s cleansing of faults done by eye, mind, and speech in waking and sleep.