Behold, O mortals, the twofold majesty! Indra and Varuṇa together hold dominion over all that is. Indra, the warrior, shattereth all obstacles with his might. Varuṇa, the sovereign, ordereth all things with his wisdom. Together they govern the cosmos; together they maintain the order that holdeth all creation in balance.

Indra rideth forth in his chariot, drawn by the swiftest steeds. His thunderbolt is ever ready in his mighty hand. When the demons rise up in rebellion, he rideth out to meet them. He striketh them down with his terrible power. No foe can withstand his charge; no enemy can escape his wrath. Thus doth Indra maintain the triumph of the gods and the safety of the righteous.

Varuṇa, meanwhile, seeth all things. From his throne in the highest heaven, he looketh down upon the world. Not a word is spoken, not a deed is done, that escapeth his gaze. He knoweth the secret thoughts of all creatures. He recordeth the deeds of men, both good and evil. He holdeth in his hand the cord of fate; by it he bindeth the righteous and the wicked alike.

Indra's strength is the strength of action, of mighty works performed, of enemies overcome. Varuṇa's strength is the strength of order, of law maintained, of truth upheld. Indra breaketh what must be broken; Varuṇa preserveth what must be preserved. Together they form a perfect dyad, complementary in all things.

When a man falleth into sin, Varuṇa knoweth it, and his heart becometh heavy with disapproval. But if that man repenteth and maketh amends, Varuṇa's anger may be turned aside. Still, the wise man feareth Varuṇa's judgment more than the blow of any enemy, for a man may escape his enemy, but none can escape the all-seeing eye of the sovereign.

Indra protecteth the weak from the strong; Varuṇa protecteth the righteous from their own wickedness. Indra giveth courage to the timid; Varuṇa giveth conscience to the thoughtless. Indra wardeth off external dangers; Varuṇa wardeth off internal corruption. A man who enjoyeth the favour of both shall live in security and in honour.

We call upon you both, O Indra and Varuṇa! Indra, give unto us the courage of warriors. Strengthen our hearts; make our hands steady; sharpen our minds in battle. Let our enemies tremble at the sound of our approach. Grant us victory over all who threaten our safety and our prosperity.

Varuṇa, give unto us understanding. Help us to discern right from wrong. Guide us on the path of truth and justice. Keep us from falling into the snares of deception. Grant us peace of mind, knowing that we walk in accordance with the divine law. Protect us from the shame of dishonour and the torment of a guilty conscience.

Together, O mighty pair, bestow upon us both protection and guidance! Let us feel the strength of Indra when we face outward foes. Let us feel the wisdom of Varuṇa when we face inward temptations. Let us stand upright, unafraid, knowing that two of the greatest gods in heaven watch over us and concern themselves with our welfare.

In the time of peace, let us not become complacent or proud. In the time of war, let us not become cruel or unjust. Balance our lives as ye balance the cosmos. Make us strong without being harsh, wise without being cold, brave without being foolish. Thus shall we truly live under the favour of Indra and Varuṇa, the greatest gods of heaven!