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Vedic Literature: Insights into Ancient Wisdom and Spiritual Traditions

April 24, 2024 386 0

Vedic literature encompasses a vast array of sacred texts originating from ancient India, including the Vedas, Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and Upanishads. These texts are foundational to Hinduism and provide insights into early Indian society, culture, and spirituality.

Key Characteristics of Vedic literature

  • The word ‘Veda’ is derived from the root ‘vid,’ which means to know, signifying ‘superior knowledge.’
  • Vedic literature consists of:
    • Four Vedas: Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda. 
    • Brahmanas are prose texts that elucidate mantras and describe sacrificial rituals
    • The Aranyakas (forest treatises) and Upanishads (sitting down beside) are appendices to the Brahmanas and are often referred to as Vedanta or “end of the Veda“, focusing on philosophical discussions.
  • Despite their oral tradition, the Vedas were eventually transcribed in written form, with the earliest surviving manuscript dating back to the 11th century.
Shruti Smriti
  • Texts ‘that are heard’ or product of Godly revelation to the great sages (Rishis) during meditation (‘Dhyaan’).
  • It includes four Vedas and Samhitas.
  • Recollected by normal humans
  • Detailed commentaries/explanations on the Vedas (Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and Upanishads), 6 Vedangas, and  Upavedas.

 

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The Four Vedas

Rig Veda: It is the oldest surviving text which mentions the concept of the Origin of the Universe.

  • It is divided into 10 Mandals (books):
    • Books II to VII constitute the earliest sections. 
    • Books I and X were later additions, incorporating the Purusashukta that explains the concept of the four varnas.
    • Book VIII – mainly related to Kanva’s family.
    • Book IX – compilation of Soma hymns.
  • It is a collection of hymns and prayers dedicated to various deities and natural forces such as Agni, Indra, Mitra, and Varuna, presented by different families of poets or sages (family books).
  • Tradition of Vedic chanting was included in the intangible heritage list of UNESCO.
  • Although composed in Sanskrit, it contains numerous Munda and Dravidian words, likely integrated through the languages of the Harappans.
Sama Veda: Earliest book on music (Sama means melody; ragas and raginis).

  • These are poetic texts derived from Rig Veda.
  • It contains the famous Dhrupada raga, later sung by Tansen.
Yajur Veda: Contains sacrifices and rituals, composed in prose and poetry.

  • It is further divided into: 
    • Shukla Yajur Veda/White Yajur Veda/Vajasaneya (contains only the Mantras). It contains the Madhyandina and Kanva recensions.
    • Krishna Yajur Veda/Black Yajur Veda (contains both mantras and prose explanations/ commentary). 
Atharva Veda: contains magic, charms, omens, agriculture, industry/craft, cattle rearing, cure for diseases.

 

VEDAS UPAVEDA BRAHMANA UPANISHAD ARANYAKAS MANTRA PRIEST
Rig Veda Ayurveda

(Medicine)

Aitareya, Kaushi-Tiki/ Sankhyana Aitareya,

Kaushitiki

Aitareya,

Kaushitiki

1028 Hotri/Hotar
Sam Veda Gandharva Veda

(Music)

Panchvimsh/

Tandya,

Jaiminiya

Kena,

Chandogya

Jaiminiya,

Chandogya

1810 Udgatar
Yajur Veda Dhanurveda

(Warfare)

Taittiriya,

Shatapatha

Taittiriya,

KathaIsa,

Brihadaranyaka

Taittiriya Adhvaryu
Atharva

Veda

Sthapatya Veda/

Shilp Veda

(Architecture)

Gopatha Mandukya,

Mundaka

Prashan

6000         –

 

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Conclusion

  • Vedic literature stands as a timeless repository of wisdom, offering profound insights into the human condition, spiritual truths, and ethical principles. 
    • It continues to inspire seekers and scholars alike, shaping the spiritual landscape of India and beyond.
Related Articles 
Harshavardhana: Empire of Harsha, History Vedic Period: History Notes
Sangam Age – Political History of South India Mauryan Empire (322-185 BCE)
Jainism and Buddhism Post Mauryan Period (200 BC – 300 AD)

 

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 Final Result – CIVIL SERVICES EXAMINATION, 2023.   Udaan-Prelims Wallah ( Static ) booklets 2024 released both in english and hindi : Download from Here!     Download UPSC Mains 2023 Question Papers PDF  Free Initiative links -1) Download Prahaar 3.0 for Mains Current Affairs PDF both in English and Hindi 2) Daily Main Answer Writing  , 3) Daily Current Affairs , Editorial Analysis and quiz ,  4) PDF Downloads  UPSC Prelims 2023 Trend Analysis cut-off and answer key

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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
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हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध
Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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