Vedic Mythology c8.s1.2

c8.s1.2

It has already been shown that Vṛtra is conceived as having the form of a serpent (§ 64). Hence he is without feet or hands (1, 32⁷; 3, 30⁸)². His head, which Indra pierces, is mentioned several times (1, 52¹⁰; 8, 6⁶. 65²), as well as his jaws, into which Indra strikes his bolt (1, 52⁶). His hissing or snorting is sometimes referred to (8, 85⁷; 5, 29⁴ cp. 1, 52¹⁰. 61¹⁰; 6, 17¹⁰). He has thunder at his disposal (1, 80¹²), as well as lightning, mist, and hail (1, 32¹³).