Reading outline · Narrative
The gods and the unknown presence
The gods credit themselves with a victory obtained through Brahman. An unfamiliar presence appears before them.
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In this outline
Victory and pride
The gods credit themselves with a victory obtained through Brahman. An unfamiliar presence appears before them.
Brahman obtained the victory for the Devas. The Devas became elated by the victory of Brahman, and they thought, this victory is ours only, this greatness is ours only. Brahman perceived this and appeared to them. But they did not know it, and said: 'What sprite (yaksha or …
Fire and wind tested
Agni cannot burn the straw placed before him, and Vāyu cannot carry it away.
They said to Agni (fire): 'O Gâtavedas, find out what sprite this is.' 'Yes,' he said. He ran toward it, and Brahman said to him: 'Who are you?' He replied: 'I am Agni, I am Gâtavedas.' Brahman said: 'What power is in you?' Agni replied: 'I could burn …
Indra and Umā
The presence vanishes before Indra. Umā identifies it as Brahman, explaining the gods’ victory.
Then they said to Indra: 'O Maghavan, find out what sprite this is.' He went towards it, but it disappeared from before him. Then in the same space (ether) he came towards a woman, highly adorned: it was Umâ, the daughter of Himavat. He said to her: 'Who …
Sources & reading notes
Introductions and explanations are editorial writing. Quoted text retains its named edition; selections may be shortened with an ellipsis.
Victory and pride. Editorial summary of the cited text; narrative setting is not independent historical confirmation. Source ↗
Fire and wind tested. Editorial summary of the cited text; narrative setting is not independent historical confirmation. Source ↗
Indra and Umā. Editorial summary of the cited text; narrative setting is not independent historical confirmation. Source ↗
Original scene outline
Victory and pride
The gods credit themselves with a victory obtained through Brahman. An unfamiliar presence appears before them.
Fire and wind tested
Agni cannot burn the straw placed before him, and Vāyu cannot carry it away.
Indra and Umā
The presence vanishes before Indra. Umā identifies it as Brahman, explaining the gods’ victory.