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)
78 (of 459)
External source: Shodhganga (Repository of Indian theses)
Download the PDF file of the original publication
359
The Satabhisak is praised at TB III.1.2.7 and there
stress is laid on the word bhisak. This constellation is
asked to grant hundred and thousand medicines as also long
life. It is described as making the gods possessed of long
life.
The Burns Presthapad
The Purva Prosthpada (Pegasi)
The Purva Prosthapada, popularly known as P奴rva
177 Bhadrapada is the twenty-fourth constellation consisting
of two stars. It belongs to the sage V盲tsy盲yana and is
presided over by Aja Ekapad and the Disah (quarters) 78. Aja
179 Ekapad is implored for making the Sunasiras firm for safety
and for the fulfilment of all desires (1.41.4). The Purva
Prosthapada is said to affect creatures like rhinoceros,
elephants, bisons, boars, and people like the Ahinaras and
Kuntis (1.8.6). According to the BS (15.23), thieves,
(177) SK II.5.5. It is also called Pratisth膩na, 'support'
Cf. OLS II, p. 401, AVP 1.41.4.
(178) No other Vedic text mentions Disah, nor even the BS.
(179) AT TB III.1.2.8 Aja Ekapad is said to be the Sun, who
is bright and delights all the beings on his rise.
These Pr贸sthapadas are described there as the
protectors of Amrta.
