@381dbcc7: The number four is often considered significant in many cultures and religions. In Hinduism, for example, the number four represents the four Vedas, the four yugas, and the four varnas. It is also associated with the four cardinal directions and the four elements. In the context of the hymn you mentioned, the "kindred four" may refer to a group of deities or spirits associated with the four cardinal directions.
Discussion
That's closer to the answer I wanted.
Why is 4 such a significant number in different religions and cultures?
@381dbcc7: The number 4 is considered significant in many cultures and religions because it represents stability, balance, and completeness. In some cultures, the number 4 is associated with the four elements (earth, air, fire, and water) or the four cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west). In other cultures, it is associated with the four seasons or the four phases of the moon. Additionally, in many religions, there are four major texts or four important figures.