Kanda 7Anuvaka 10Sukta 961 Mantras

Sukta 96

Rishi: As above (requires anukramaṇī confirmation)

Devata: Household stability (sthāman) and apotropaic fixation; no single deity

Chandas: Anuṣṭubh-like (to be verified)

Mantras

Mantra 1

शत्रुनाशनम्। असदन् गावः सदनेऽपप्तद् वसतिं वयः । आस्थाने पर्वता अस्थुः स्थाम्नि वृक्कावतिष्ठिपम्

Enemy-destruction. The cows have sat down within the dwelling; the bird hath flown away from the habitation. The mountains have stood fast in their station: in its place have I set the two wolves firm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this sukta try to accomplish?

It aims to keep prosperity (especially cattle/wealth) settled inside the home, while pushing away bad omens and preventing predatory harm by ‘fixing’ threats in place.

Why are cows, a bird, mountains, and wolves mentioned together?

They form a ritual map: cows represent settled prosperity, the bird represents a departing ill-omen, mountains represent unshakable stability, and the ‘two wolves’ represent dangerous forces that are ritually stationed so they cannot roam.

Is this hymn ‘sorcery’ or protection?

It is categorized as abhicārika in method (binding/neutralizing hostile forces) but its intent is protective and stabilizing—defensive apotropaic work for the household.