Kanda 7Anuvaka 10Sukta 991 Mantras

Sukta 99

Rishi: Requires hymn colophon consultation.

Devata: Vedi / ritual space (personified); secondarily protective prosperity powers tied to gold/niṣka.

Chandas: Likely anuṣṭubh-like with liturgical irregularities.

Mantras

Mantra 1

वेदी। परि स्तृणीहि परि धेहि वेदिं मा जामिं मोषीरमुया शयानाम्। होतृषदनं हरितं हिरण्ययं निष्का एते यजमानस्य लोके

The altar:—Spread it round about; set the altar round about. Rob not our own, as she lies yonder. The Hotṛ’s seat—green-hued, golden—these are the niṣkas in the sacrificer’s realm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is AV 7.99 used for?

It is used while laying out and enclosing the vedi to protect the ritual area and prevent theft or loss of one’s own people and property during the rite.

Why does the hymn mention niṣka and gold (hiraṇya)?

Niṣka and gold function as auspicious wealth-signs; the hymn declares them securely established within the yajamāna’s domain, reinforcing prosperity and protection.

What does “mā jāmiṃ moṣīḥ” mean in simple terms?

It means “Do not steal what is ours”—a direct request that the protected space not allow loss, especially when people are vulnerable, such as during sleep.