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HYMNS OF THE ATHARVA-VEDA.
VI, 114. Expiatory formula for imperfections in
the sacrifice. 1. The god-angering (deed), O ye gods, that we, the (Brahman) gods, have committed, from that do ye, O Adityas, release us, by virtue of the order of the universe!
2. By virtue of the order of the universe do ye, O reverend Adityas, release us here, if, O ye carriers of the sacrifice, though desirous of accomplishing (the sacrifice), we did not accomplish (it) !
3. (If), when sacrificing with the fat (animal), when offering oblations of ghee with the spoon, when desiring to benefit you, O all ye gods, we have contrary to desire, not succeeded!
VI, 115. Expiatory formulas for sins. 1. From the sins which knowingly or unknowingly we have committed, do ye, all gods, of one accord, release us!
2. If awake, or if asleep, to sin inclined, I have committed a sin, may what has been, and what shall be, as if from a wooden post, release me!
3. As one released from a wooden post, as one in a sweat by bathing (is cleansed) of filth, as ghee is clarified by the sieve, may all (the gods) clear me from sin !
VI, 112. Expiation for the precedence of a
younger brother over an older. 1. May this (younger brother) not slay the oldest one of them, O Agni; protect him that he be not torn out by the root! Do thou here cunningly
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