Vedic Mythology c5.s1.t2.8

c5.s1.t2.8

In marked contrast with Indra, Varuṇa has no myths related of him, while much is said about him (and Mitra) as upholder of physical and moral order. Varuṇa is a great lord of the laws of nature. He established heaven and earth and dwells in all the worlds (8, 42¹). The three heavens and the three earths are deposited within him (7, 87⁵). He and Mitra rule over the whole world (5, 63⁷) or encompass the two worlds (7, 61⁴). They are the guardians of the whole world (2, 27⁴ &c.). By the law of Varuṇa heaven and earth are held apart (6, 70¹; 7, 86¹; 8, 41¹⁰). With Mitra he supports earth and heaven (5, 62³), or heaven, earth, and air (5, 69¹·⁴). He made the golden swing (the sun) to shine in heaven (7, 87⁵). He placed fire in the waters, the sun in the sky, Soma on the rock (5, 85²). He has made a wide path for the sun (1, 24⁸; 7, 87¹). Varuṇa, Mitra, and Aryaman open paths for the sun (7, 60⁴). The order (*ṛta*) of Mitra and Varuṇa is established where the steeds of the sun are loosed (5, 62¹). The wind which resounds through the air is Varuṇa's breath (7, 87²).