Kauṣītaki (Śāṅkhāyana) Brāhmaṇa 26.4.21

26.4.21

bṛhat pṛṣṭham rāthantaram śastram /

to Mitra and Varuṇa; containing (the word) 'extend' in 'The sun goeth, extending of the pious one'; that which contains (the word) 'extend' is a symbol of the seventh day. 'Hither, O Nāsatyas, with chariot rich in cattle', 'Come hither to us, O impetuous god, with might,' 'Forward to you in the sacrifices the pious have sung,' and 'Forward she hath come forth with fostering current' (are the other triplets); the symbols of the introductory (day) are (the words) 'hither' or 'forward'; therefore on the seventh day are recited hymns containing (the words) 'hither' and 'forward' with the symbols of the introductory (day), for the seventh day is a second introduction. They say 'Whatever metre may be used in the morning pressing, the recitation of it is by half verses, with the symbol of the Gāyatrī, and thus moreover with the symbol of the morning pressing.' But as to this Kauṣītaki used to say, 'The Triṣṭubh and Jagatī are not suitable to be recited by half verses; even if they be employed at the morning pressing, they are to be recited by Padas only.' So is the rule. The Pṛṣṭha is the Bṛhat and the Çastra is connected with the Rathantara; this is a pairing, a symbol of generation. The strophes and antistrophes of the Marutvatīyas and (the Pragāthas) to Brahmaṇaspati are in accord with the form of the third day (rite); the explanation of these has been given.