Kanda 7Anuvaka 1Sukta 81 Mantras

Sukta 8

Rishi: Atharvanic tradition (anukramaṇī-dependent)

Devata: Bṛhaspati (as leader and remover of obstacles); secondarily Earth/territory

Chandas: Anuṣṭubh/mixture (edition-dependent)

Mantras

Mantra 1

शत्रुनाशनम्। भद्रादधि श्रेयः प्रेहि बृहस्पतिः पुरएता ते अस्तु । अथेममस्या वर आ पृथिव्या आरेशत्रुं कृणुहि सर्ववीरम्

From out the auspicious, go forth unto the better: let Bṛhaspati be thy leader in the van. Then make this choice boon of the Earth—drive the enemy far away—make it all-heroed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this sukta used for?

It is used to drive an enemy or hostile presence away from a specific territory and to establish that land as secure and well-defended (sarvavīra).

Why is Bṛhaspati invoked as ‘puraetā’ (vanguard leader)?

Because the hymn treats success as a priest-led advance: Bṛhaspati goes in front to remove obstacles, guide the move, and ensure the enemy is pushed beyond the boundary.

Does the hymn require herbs or complex materials?

No. Its core focus is territorial: the ‘portion of Earth’ (pṛthivī-vara) is the main ritual anchor, optionally supported by simple boundary markers and basic purification water.