The Antiquities of Orissa v1.c11.93.1

v1.c11.93.1

**Vaisnavism of the early Vedas :** Although, as above stated, the name of Viṣṇu was well known as that of a great god in the Vedic times, and several hymns are dedicated to the praise of that divinity in the *Ṛgveda Saṁhitā*, his place in the celestial assembly is nowhere well defined. He has no sovereignty over any of the elements, nor is he the personification of any object or idea. His principal attributes are thus put together in one of the early hymns of that work: "May the gods preserve us from the place from which Viṣṇu strode through the seven regions of the earth. Viṣṇu strode over this (universe); in three places he planted his step; (the world, or his, step, was) enveloped in his dust. Viṣṇu, unconquerable preserver, strode three steps, bearing from thence fixed observances. Behold the acts of Viṣṇu, through which this fitting (or intimate) friend of Indra perceived religious ceremonies. Sages constantly behold that highest position of Viṣṇu, like an eye fixed in the sky. Wise men, singing praises, and ever wakeful light up (by the power of their hymns?) that which is the highest station of Viṣṇu".⁴² This hymn is held in the highest veneration by the Brāhmaṇas, and is frequently muttered, or recited, at all the principal ceremonies enjoined in the Vedas. At Śrāddhas and marital and other rites of the present day, it constitutes the holiest *mantra*; and seldom is a sacred fire lighted without its being brought to bear upon it.