NAKSHATRA MOOLA 5.7.10

NAKSHATRA MOOLA 5.7.10

The Rg Veda personify Nirriti as the goddess of destruction, calamity,corruption and death, the abode or place of dissolution or decay. Verse in theRV ( 7.104.1,9-11) describes the ‘realm’ of Nirriti as an endless pit withoutlight or warmth, receiving no nourishment either from the offerings of theirdescendents, nor from their own accumulated merit. – a place reserved forthose who act against the basic ideals of Vedic society. The following Hymnfrom the Rig Veda implores her to leave the sacrifice alone and to “depart todistant places” so that no calamity may befall:“His life hath been renewed and carried forward as two men, car-borne, bythe skilful driver. One falls, then seeks the goal with quickened vigour. LetNirrti depart to distant places. Here is the psalm for wealth, and food, inplenty: let us do many deeds to bring us glory. All these our doings shalldelight the singer. Let Nirrti depart to distant places. May we o’ercome ourfoes with acts of valour, as heaven is over earth, hills over lowlands. All theseour deeds the singer hath considered. Let Nirrti depart to distant places. Giveus not up as prey to death, O Sorna still let us look upon the Sun arising. Letour old age with passing days be kindly. Let Nirrti depart to distant places.