HYMN IX

A charm against rheumatism (vishkondha)

Heaven is the sire, the mother Earth, of Karsapha and Visapha.
As ye have brought them hither, Gods! so do ye move therm
hence away.
The bands hold fast without a knot: this is the way that Manu-
used.
I make Vishkandha impotent as one emasculateth bulls.
Then to a tawny-coloured string the wise and skilful bind a
brush.
Let bandages make impotent the strong and active Kabava.
Ye who move active in your strength like Gods with Asuras'
magic powers,
Even as the monkey scorns the dogs, Bandages! scorn the
Kabava.
Yea, I will chide thee to thy shame, I will disgrace the Kabava.
Under our impracations ye, like rapid cars, shall pass away.
One and one hundred over earth are the Vishkandhas spread
abroad.
Before these have they fetched thee forth. Vishkandha quelling
Amulet.