Essay name: Atharvaveda ancillary literature (Study)
Author:
B. R. Modak
Affiliation: Savitribai Phule Pune University / Department of Sanskrit and Prakrit Languages
The essay studies the ancillary literature of the Atharva-Veda with special reference to the Parisistas. It does so by understanding the socio-cultural and philosophical aspects of ancient Indian life. The Atharvaveda addresses encompasses all practical aspects of life from health and prosperity to rituals and sorcery.
Chapter 2a - The nature of the Parisistas (of the Atharvaveda)
398 (of 459)
External source: Shodhganga (Repository of Indian theses)
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680
mentioned elsewhere in the AVP. Nor are they described in the
30 Vratakhanda of the Caturvarga Cintamani. Marud vrata is
described by Hemadri 31 as being performed on the sixth day of
the bright half of Gaitra. A figure consisting of forty-nine
squares is to be drawn and forty-nine deities are to be
worshipped. Forty-nine lamps are kindled and the deities are
prayed to. Brahmanas are fed and are given daksina. It is
stated that this vrata fulfils all the desires of a person
and leads him, after death, to the heaven.
The concluding part of the CV contains a glorification
of the AV. A person, who is initiated in the AV, is said to
be initiated in all the Vedas; and a person, who belongs to
any other Veda and wishes to study the AV, is asked to be
initiated again (punar upaneyo). Then it gives a legend about
the conversations between the sages and god Brahma, who
eulogises the Atharvan priest.
the verse brahma jyesth盲
In support of this eulogy
32 has been referred to.
The four Vedas have been personified and their features
30. Kaus. 18.23 mentions Tejovrata.
31. Caturvarga Cintamani Vol. II, part 1, pp. 775-8.
32. AV XIX.22.21, 23.30.
