Introduction to the Four Vedas

Overview

• The Vedas are ancient texts that have been in existence for thousands of years.
• Exact historical dating is unclear, with estimates ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 years ago.
• Vyasa, also known as Krishnaipayana, systematically organized the Vedas into four parts.
• Four disciples were appointed to propagate this knowledge.

Rigveda

• Oldest and most extensive of the Vedas with 10,700 mantras.
• Consists of poetry by Vedic sages on various topics.
• Mantras praise deities (devatas) during rituals known as yagnas.
• Rigveda priest is called Hota, responsible for singing hymns.
• Covers topics like the origin of the universe and nature.

Yajurveda

• Derived from the root "Yaj" meaning to worship with sacrifice.
• Mantras are called "Yajus" and focus on conducting sacrifices.
• Written mostly in prose, containing instructions for rituals.
• Priest is known as Adhvaryu, oversees sacrifices, may have assistants.
• Divided into two branches: Krishna Yajurveda (mix of prose and poetry) and Shukla Yajurveda (entirely poetry).
• Discusses human anatomy, metals, constellations, and more.

Samaveda

• Derived from "Sama," meaning to please or satisfy.
• Songs and hymns are sung to please the gods after offerings.
• Priest is called Udgatri, sings mantras post-offering.
• Music is central, with mantras linked to musical scales.
• Thought to be the origin of Indian classical music.
• Originally had 1,000 branches, now only 3 remain.
• Divided into Purvachikam and Uttarachikam sections.
• Most mantras are borrowed from Rigveda.

Atharvaveda

• Considered a later addition or reclassification.
• Priest known as Brahma, coordinates the Vedic rituals.
• Contains about 6,077 mantras organized under 736 suktas.
• One-sixth of its mantras are from Rigveda.

Conclusion

• Each Veda is divided further, details to be discussed in future lectures.
• Provides a broad understanding of the structure and content of the Vedas.