Hymns from the Rig Veda
The Rig Veda is a fundamental Vedic text central to Indian thought. It is composed over a long period between 1500 and 1000 BCE and eventually attributed to divine inspiration or seer visions.
Creation Hymn
- Envisions a time of chaos and watery abyss, with a cosmic breath that initiates life.
- Thought leads to desire, linking non-existence to existence.
- Creation is a mystery; gods are subsequent to creation.
- It questions the origins of creation and the role of gods.
Agni (Fire)
- Agni is the god of fire, a terrestrial deity, often compared to animals.
- Acts as a medium for sacrifices, consuming offerings for the gods.
- Agni brings wealth, prosperity, and divine presence through sacrifice.
- Pleas for Agni to remain accessible and favorable to worshippers.
Indra
- Indra is a sky and war god, similar to Zeus or Jupiter.
- Known for vanquishing drought and darkness, releasing rivers, and aiding Aryan invaders.
- Acts as a protector and helper to the weary and needy.
- Controls natural elements and ensures victory in battles.
Purusa, the Cosmic Person
- Suggests pantheistic philosophy; Purusa is a cosmic giant.
- Gods and cosmos are derived from Purusa, who is also sacrificial.
- Castes derived from Purusa: Brahmans (mouth), Ksatriya (arms), Vaisya (thighs), Sudra (feet).
- Elements of nature and the universe are born from Purusa's body parts.
Additional Information:
- Translated by Michael Myers.
- Part of "Reading About the World, Volume 1" for educational purposes.
- Originally part of a World Civilization course at Washington State University.