From the Rig Veda (c. 17 BCE-11 BCE)
The Dove of Death

1. Gods, a dove has come here seeking someone, sent as a messenger by Destruction. We will sing against him; we will perform an expiation. Let all be well with our two-footed creatures, all be well with our four-footed creatures.
2. Let the dove that has been sent to us be kind; gods, let the bird be harmless in our houses. Let the inspired Agni relish our oblation. Let the winged spear spare us.
3. Do not let the winged spear attack us; it settles by the fireplace in the kitchen. Let all be well with our cows and with our men; gods, do not let the dove harm us here.
4. What the owl screeches is in vain; vain,too, the settling of the dove by the fire. I bow low before Yama, before death, who sent this dove as a messenger.
5. Drive the dove out, pushing him with a verse. Rejoicing in food, lead the cow around and wipe out all the evil traces. Let it fly forth, flying its best, and leave us strength to live.

Translated from the Sanskrit by Wendy Doniger