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[[Veda (वेद)|Vedas]] (Samskrit : वेदः) is regarded as revealed scripture, self-explanatory and self authoritative, according to many traditional scholars. वैदिकसूक्त-s || Vedic Suktas (Collection of Mantras) and मन्त्र-s || Mantras are "seen by" or "revealed to" and only spoken by the ऋषि-s || Rishis (seers or sages). These rishis are neither authors of the Mantras nor are they responsible for the contents of the Mantras. Thus, Vedas are called अपौरुषेयः ॥ Apaurusheya. There is no final authority beyond the Vedas according to Bharatiya philosophy. While the mantras are revealed, the structural arrangement of Vedas given by वेदव्यासः ॥ [[Vyasa|Veda Vyasa]] and further formation of शाखा-s || shakas (recensions) or versions of Vedas seen today is based on different rishis.

[[Veda (वेद)|Vedas]] (Samskrit : वेदः) is regarded as revealed scripture, self-explanatory and self authoritative, according to many traditional scholars. वैदिकसूक्त-s || Vedic Suktas (Collection of Mantras) and मन्त्र-s || Mantras are "seen by" or "revealed to" and only spoken by the ऋषि-s || Rishis (seers or sages). These rishis are neither authors of the Mantras nor are they responsible for the contents of the Mantras. Thus, Vedas are called अपौरुषेयः ॥ Apaurusheya. There is no final authority beyond the Vedas according to Bharatiya philosophy. While the mantras are revealed, the structural arrangement of Vedas given by वेदव्यासः ॥ [[Vyasa|Veda Vyasa]] and further formation of शाखा-s || shakas (recensions) or versions of Vedas seen today is based on different rishis.

==  परिचय || Introduction ==

==  परिचयः || Introduction ==

महर्षि वेद व्यासः || Maharshi Veda Vyasa collected all the Mantras in existence during his period, edited, codified and organized them into four groups in the form that we see today   

महर्षि वेद व्यासः || Maharshi Veda Vyasa collected all the Mantras in existence during his period, edited, codified and organized them into four groups in the form that we see today   

#  ऋग्वेदः || The Rigveda

#  ऋग्वेदः || The Rigveda

Of these, the first three were the principal original division, also called त्रयी विद्या || trayī vidyā, that is, 'the triple science' of reciting mantras (Rigveda), performing yajnas (sacrifices) (Yajurveda), and singing of mantras set to musical notes (Samaveda). Atharvaveda consists of mantras applicable to activities of daily life, such as ailments and their cure, achieving desired things, warfare, trade, commerce, construction among other things.     

Of these, the first three were the principal original division, also called त्रयी विद्या || trayī vidyā, that is, 'the triple science' of reciting mantras (Rigveda), performing yajnas (sacrifices) (Yajurveda), and singing of mantras set to musical notes (Samaveda). Atharvaveda consists of mantras applicable to activities of daily life, such as ailments and their cure, achieving desired things, warfare, trade, commerce, construction among other things.     

==  ऋग्वेदः || Rigveda ==

==  ऋग्वेदः || Rigveda ==

=== Etymology ===

=== व्युत्पत्तिः ॥ Etymology ===

The Samskrit धातुः ऋच (तुदादि गणः) is used in the meaning स्तुतौ (to praise). That which has the description of the quality, action and nature of substances are said to be ऋक् (Rk).<ref name=":0223222">Shastri, Jwalanth Kumar. (2009) ''Ved aur vedarth'' Rajasthan: Sri Ghudhmal Prahladkumar Arya Dharmarth Nyasa</ref> Rigveda contains primarily Mantras (set in 2, 3 or 4 padas) dealing with the stuti for devatas, their invocation, yajnakarmas, karmakanda, upasana mantras, mantras related to different worldly activities such as dana, conduct, medical remedies etc.

The Samskrit धातुः ऋच (तुदादि गणः) is used in the meaning स्तुतौ (to praise). That which has the description of the quality, action and nature of substances are said to be ऋक् (Rk).<ref name=":0223222">Shastri, Jwalanth Kumar. (2009) ''Ved aur vedarth'' Rajasthan: Sri Ghudhmal Prahladkumar Arya Dharmarth Nyasa</ref> Rigveda contains primarily Mantras (set in 2, 3 or 4 padas) dealing with the stuti for devatas, their invocation, yajnakarmas, karmakanda, upasana mantras, mantras related to different worldly activities such as dana, conduct, medical remedies etc.

===  Rigveda Vibhajana ===

===  ऋग्वेद-विभाजनम् ॥ Rigveda Vibhajana ===

There are two types of divisions of Rigveda namely Mandala krama and Ashtaka krama, arose mainly for अध्ययनम् || study and अध्यापनम् || teaching. A small lesson is easily grasped or understood and committed to memory.(See footnote 3 on Page 35 of Reference 1<ref name=":0223222" />) There are different versions advocated by different scholars about the number of suktas and mantras available in Rigveda.   

There are two types of divisions of Rigveda namely Mandala krama and Ashtaka krama, arose mainly for अध्ययनम् || study and अध्यापनम् || teaching. A small lesson is easily grasped or understood and committed to memory.(See footnote 3 on Page 35 of Reference 1<ref name=":0223222" />) There are different versions advocated by different scholars about the number of suktas and mantras available in Rigveda.   

==== Mandala Krama ====

==== मण्डल-क्रमः ॥ Mandala Krama ====

According to the Mandala krama, Rigveda Samhita is divided into 10 Mandalas or books. The Mandalas are subdivided into  85 Anuvakas, 1028 Suktas and 10522 mantras<ref name=":0223222" /> and 10552 mantras according to another version<ref name=":123222" />. In Rig veda Shakala samhita the number of suktas in each Mandala is - 191, 43, 62, 58, 87, 75, 104, 103, 114, 191 (1028) respectively from the first to tenth Mandala.<ref name=":0223222" /><ref name=":123222">Rigveda Classification on [http://vedicheritage.gov.in/samhitas/rigveda/shakala-samhita/ Vedic Heritage Portal] </ref>

According to the Mandala krama, Rigveda Samhita is divided into 10 Mandalas or books. The Mandalas are subdivided into  85 Anuvakas, 1028 Suktas and 10522 mantras<ref name=":0223222" /> and 10552 mantras according to another version<ref name=":123222" />. In Rig veda Shakala samhita the number of suktas in each Mandala is - 191, 43, 62, 58, 87, 75, 104, 103, 114, 191 (1028) respectively from the first to tenth Mandala.<ref name=":0223222" /><ref name=":123222">Rigveda Classification on [http://vedicheritage.gov.in/samhitas/rigveda/shakala-samhita/ Vedic Heritage Portal] </ref>

{| class="wikitable"

{| class="wikitable"

In Rigveda, not only are the suktas and mantras counted but also there is a system of counting even the Aksharas or letters in such texts called Sarvanukramanikas, thereby leaving no scope of additions or deletion of letters in the Veda. This was one main reason why there are no changes in this Veda since ancient times. It is to be noted that in this Aksharaganana the Valakhilya sutras are not seen, hence they Suktas are counted without them. The differences in the counting of mantras is mainly because of the differences in the shakas, additionally in modern times the differences in counting the Rks is attributed to breaking the mantras having 4 padas into 2 padas each (Page No 6 of Reference 4<ref name=":223222" />).   

In Rigveda, not only are the suktas and mantras counted but also there is a system of counting even the Aksharas or letters in such texts called Sarvanukramanikas, thereby leaving no scope of additions or deletion of letters in the Veda. This was one main reason why there are no changes in this Veda since ancient times. It is to be noted that in this Aksharaganana the Valakhilya sutras are not seen, hence they Suktas are counted without them. The differences in the counting of mantras is mainly because of the differences in the shakas, additionally in modern times the differences in counting the Rks is attributed to breaking the mantras having 4 padas into 2 padas each (Page No 6 of Reference 4<ref name=":223222" />).   

==== Ashtaka Krama ====

==== अष्टक-क्रमः ॥ Ashtaka Krama ====

According to the Ashtaka krama, Rigveda Samhita is divided into 8 Ashtakas each containing 8 Adhyayas thus a total of 64 Adhyayas are available. The number of Vargas in each Ashtaka is -  265, 221, 225, 250, 238, 331, 248, 246 respectively from first to eighth Ashtaka. Thus a total of 2024 vargas are present in Rk samhita. The total number of mantras are 10522 according to some scholars(Page 34 of Ref 1).<ref name=":0223222" />

According to the Ashtaka krama, Rigveda Samhita is divided into 8 Ashtakas each containing 8 Adhyayas thus a total of 64 Adhyayas are available. The number of Vargas in each Ashtaka is -  265, 221, 225, 250, 238, 331, 248, 246 respectively from first to eighth Ashtaka. Thus a total of 2024 vargas are present in Rk samhita. The total number of mantras are 10522 according to some scholars(Page 34 of Ref 1).<ref name=":0223222" />

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!<nowiki>| Mantra</nowiki>

!<nowiki>| Mantra</nowiki>

|}

|}

=== Shakas ===

=== शाखाः ॥ Shakas ===

Only one Shaka (school or recension) of the Rigveda is available today

Only one Shaka (school or recension) of the Rigveda is available today

* '''शाकला || Shakala'''<ref name=":0223222" /><ref name=":123222" />

* '''शाकल शाखा || Shakala'''<ref name=":0223222" /><ref name=":123222" />

According to Sarvanukramani vritti, Ahirbudhnyasamhita, Muktikopanishad and Pathanjali's Mahabhashyam, and recently many scholars opined that Rigveda had 21 shakas.   

According to Sarvanukramani vritti, Ahirbudhnyasamhita, Muktikopanishad and Pathanjali's Mahabhashyam, and recently many scholars opined that Rigveda had 21 shakas.   

However, according to Pt. Satyavrat Samashrami<ref name=":0223222" />, Rig veda has only 2 ancient shakas namely, शाकला || Shakala and माण्डूकेया || Mandukeya. These two shakas became 21 shakas gradually. Shakalacharya taught this veda to 5 of his disciples and gradually in their pronunciation there were differences bringing about 5 different versions of the Veda, which according to the text Vikruti Kaumudi is as follows  <blockquote>शाकल्यसेय शतं शिष्या नैष्ठिकब्रह्मचारिणः | पञ्च तेषां गृहस्थास्ते धर्मनिष्ठाश्च कुटुम्बिनः ||</blockquote><blockquote>शिशिरो वाष्कलो सांख्यो वात्स्यश्चैवाश्वलायनः | पञ्चैते शाकलाः शिष्याः शाखाभेदप्रवर्त्तकाः ||</blockquote>Meaning : Shakala had 100 students who were brahmacharis. Of them 5 who were having dharmanistha, and were grihasthas bearing the responsibility of maintaining a family. शिशिरः || Shishira, वाष्कलः || Vashkala (Bashkala) सांख्यः || Samkhya वात्स्यः || Vatsya and अवाश्वलायनः || Asvalayana were the five disciples who were the pravartakas of the different shakas.<ref name=":0223222" /> Asvalaayana-Samhita was available as lately as 17th century but is presently unavailable. Sankhyayana samhita is not available but its Brahmanas and Aranyakas are available. Some scholars opine that Sankhyayana and Kaushitaki shakas are one and the same.<ref name=":223222" />

However, according to Pt. Satyavrat Samashrami<ref name=":0223222" />, Rig veda has only 2 ancient shakas namely, शाकला || Shakala and माण्डूकेया || Mandukeya. These two shakas became 21 shakas gradually. Shakalacharya taught this veda to 5 of his disciples and gradually in their pronunciation there were differences bringing about 5 different versions of the Veda, which according to the text Vikruti Kaumudi is as follows  <blockquote>शाकल्यसेय शतं शिष्या नैष्ठिकब्रह्मचारिणः | पञ्च तेषां गृहस्थास्ते धर्मनिष्ठाश्च कुटुम्बिनः ||</blockquote><blockquote>शिशिरो वाष्कलो सांख्यो वात्स्यश्चैवाश्वलायनः | पञ्चैते शाकलाः शिष्याः शाखाभेदप्रवर्त्तकाः ||</blockquote>Meaning : Shakala had 100 students who were brahmacharis. Of them 5 who were having dharmanistha, and were grihasthas bearing the responsibility of maintaining a family. शिशिरः || Shishira, वाष्कलः || Vashkala (Bashkala) सांख्यः || Samkhya वात्स्यः || Vatsya and अवाश्वलायनः || Asvalayana were the five disciples who were the pravartakas of the different shakas.<ref name=":0223222" /> Asvalaayana-Samhita was available as lately as 17th century but is presently unavailable. Sankhyayana samhita is not available but its Brahmanas and Aranyakas are available. Some scholars opine that Sankhyayana and Kaushitaki shakas are one and the same.<ref name=":223222" />

=== Devatas, Chandas and Rtvik ===

=== देवताः छन्दसः ऋत्विक् च ॥ Devatas, Chandas and Rtvik ===

Rig veda mantras are chanted by the '''[[Hotra|होत्र ||]]''' [[Hotra|'''Hotra''']], the Rig veda priest to invoke the deities to the yajna. Important Rig vedic deities are Agni, Indra, Varuna, Ushas, Savita, Pusha, Mitra, Vishnu, Rudra, Marut and Parjanya. Gayatri, Jagati, Bruhati, Pankti and Trishtubh and Anustubh are widely used meters (Page No 6 of Reference 4<ref name=":223222" />).   

Rig veda mantras are chanted by the '''[[Hotra|होत्र ||]]''' [[Hotra|'''Hotra''']], the Rig veda priest to invoke the deities to the yajna. Important Rig vedic deities are Agni, Indra, Varuna, Ushas, Savita, Pusha, Mitra, Vishnu, Rudra, Marut and Parjanya. Gayatri, Jagati, Bruhati, Pankti and Trishtubh and Anustubh are widely used meters (Page No 6 of Reference 4<ref name=":223222" />).   

=== विषयविभागम् ===

=== विषयविभागाः ॥ Vishaya vibhaga-s ===

The topics dealt with in the Rig Veda Samhita can be classified into 3 groups.

The topics dealt with in the Rig Veda Samhita can be classified into 3 groups.

==== '''स्तुतिविभागम्''' ====

==== '''स्तुतिपराः || Eulogical''' ====

The first group is in praise of the deities like [[Agni (आग्निः)|अग्निः || Agni]], [[Indra|इन्द्रः || lndra]], [[Varuna|वरुणः || Varuna]], [[Mitra (मित्रः)|मित्रः || Mitra]] and others. The Vedic deities numbering 33 are assigned to the three regions of the universe  viz. पृथ्वी || Prithvi (earth), द्यौस् || Dyaus (heaven) and अन्तरिक्षम् || Antariksha (intermediary space). Although these deities appear as personifications of forces of nature, they are actually different facets of Brahman, the Only One Supreme Reality. The famous mantra on this point occurs in this Samhita. <blockquote>एकम् सत् विप्रः बहुध वदन्ति ||  ekam sat viprah bahudha vadanti || (Rig. Ved. 1.164. 92)</blockquote><blockquote>Meaning : Truth is one, learned call it by various names.</blockquote>

The first group is in praise of the deities like [[Agni (आग्निः)|अग्निः || Agni]], [[Indra|इन्द्रः || lndra]], [[Varuna|वरुणः || Varuna]], [[Mitra (मित्रः)|मित्रः || Mitra]] and others. The Vedic deities numbering 33 are assigned to the three regions of the universe  viz. पृथ्वी || Prithvi (earth), द्यौस् || Dyaus (heaven) and अन्तरिक्षम् || Antariksha (intermediary space). Although these deities appear as personifications of forces of nature, they are actually different facets of Brahman, the Only One Supreme Reality. The famous mantra on this point occurs in this Samhita. <blockquote>एकम् सत् विप्रः बहुध वदन्ति ||  ekam sat viprah bahudha vadanti || (Rig. Ved. 1.164. 92)</blockquote><blockquote>Meaning : Truth is one, learned call it by various names.</blockquote>

==== '''उपासनाविभागम्''' ====

==== '''उपासनापराः ॥ Philosophical''' ====

The second group is concerned with philosophical speculations like the origin of the Universe and the real nature of human beings. Although the Samhita contains mantras in praise of the devatas, the concept of Vedanta is present at least in a rudimentary form. However, advocacy of worship of devatas with form and qualities - सगुणोपासन || Sagunopasana - is predominant. Various Rig veda mantras show एक देवता वद || eka-devata-vada or monotheism and not polytheism. For example, the Samhita states that Prajapati creates the world out of Himself and rules over it; He is omnipresent (present everywhere), omnipotent (all powerful) and omniscient (all knowing), He is ever perfect, infinitely compassionate, easily approachable by the devotees and He grants us immortality. But the idea about actual process of creation of the universe finds a place only in the later Vedantic  literature i.e. the Upanishads. The concept of Brahma is clearer in the Upanishad parts.

The second group is concerned with philosophical speculations like the origin of the Universe and the real nature of human beings. Although the Samhita contains mantras in praise of the devatas, the concept of Vedanta is present at least in a rudimentary form. However, advocacy of worship of devatas with form and qualities - सगुणोपासन || Sagunopasana - is predominant. Various Rig veda mantras show एक देवता वद || eka-devata-vada or monotheism and not polytheism. For example, the Samhita states that Prajapati creates the world out of Himself and rules over it; He is omnipresent (present everywhere), omnipotent (all powerful) and omniscient (all knowing), He is ever perfect, infinitely compassionate, easily approachable by the devotees and He grants us immortality. But the idea about actual process of creation of the universe finds a place only in the later Vedantic  literature i.e. the Upanishads. The concept of Brahma is clearer in the Upanishad parts.

==== '''इतिहासविभागम्''' ====

==== '''इतिहासपराः ॥ Miscellaneous''' ====

The third group deals with several secular subjects like marriage, war etc., which show the nature of society of those times. A just and equitable social order existed. However, social life was conditioned by spiritual consciousness. There was समन्वय || Samanvaya or harmony of life here and hereafter. सत्य || Satya (truth) and धर्म || Dharma (righteousness) are glorified and अमृतत्व || Amritatva (immortality) as the goal of life was accepted.

The third group deals with several secular subjects like marriage, war etc., which show the nature of society of those times. A just and equitable social order existed. However, social life was conditioned by spiritual consciousness. There was समन्वय || Samanvaya or harmony of life here and hereafter. सत्य || Satya (truth) and धर्म || Dharma (righteousness) are glorified and अमृतत्व || Amritatva (immortality) as the goal of life was accepted.

=== Famous Aspects <ref name=":223222" /> ===

=== विशेष-विषयाः ॥ Famous Aspects <ref name=":223222" /> ===

* Urvashi Pururava Samvada (Rig. Veda. 10.85)

* Urvashi Pururava Samvada (Rig. Veda. 10.85)

* Yama Yami Samvada (Rig. Veda. 10.10)

* Yama Yami Samvada (Rig. Veda. 10.10)

* Hiranyagarbha Sukta

* Hiranyagarbha Sukta

* Vak Sutram

* Vak Sutram

=== Brahmanas, Aranyakas and the Upanishads<ref name=":03222" /> ===

=== ब्राह्मणानि आरण्यकानि उपनिषदः च ॥ Brahmanas, Aranyakas and Upanishads<ref name=":03222" /> ===

* Aitareya and Kausitaki Brahmanas

* Aitareya and Kausitaki Brahmanas

* Aitareya and Sankhyayana Aranyakas  

* Aitareya and Sankhyayana Aranyakas  

* Aitareya Upanishad

* Aitareya Upanishad

== यजुर्वेद || Yajurveda ==

== यजुर्वेदः || Yajurveda ==

=== Etymology<ref name=":223222" /> ===

=== व्युत्पत्तिः ॥ Etymology<ref name=":223222" /> ===

According to Shabdakalpadruma इज्यतेऽनेनेति यजुः meaning performing of yajnas using this hence called Yajus.

According to Shabdakalpadruma इज्यतेऽनेनेति यजुः meaning performing of yajnas using this hence called Yajus.

गद्यात्मको यजुः meaning Yajus are (the mantras) in prose form.<ref name=":1" />  

गद्यात्मको यजुः meaning Yajus are (the mantras) in prose form.<ref name=":1" />  

=== Yajurveda Vibhajana ===

=== यजुर्वेद-विभाजनम् ॥ Yajurveda Vibhajana ===

The divisions of the texts for Shukla Yajurveda are slightly different and include a combination of these as given below (See Page xviii of the Introduction in Reference 6)<ref>Swaminathan, C. R. (1997) ''Kanvasatapathabrahmanam Vol 2.'' New Delhi : Indra Gandhi National Centre For the Arts and Motilal Banarsidass Publishers Pvt. Ltd.</ref> However, variations of these divisions is seen according to other scholars.  

The divisions of the texts for Shukla Yajurveda are slightly different and include a combination of these as given below (See Page xviii of the Introduction in Reference 6)<ref>Swaminathan, C. R. (1997) ''Kanvasatapathabrahmanam Vol 2.'' New Delhi : Indra Gandhi National Centre For the Arts and Motilal Banarsidass Publishers Pvt. Ltd.</ref> However, variations of these divisions is seen according to other scholars.  

{| class="wikitable"

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* Kapisthalakatha - 6 Astakas, 48 Adhyayas.<ref name=":022" />  

* Kapisthalakatha - 6 Astakas, 48 Adhyayas.<ref name=":022" />  

Thus as seen above different classification systems are seen for every shaka.  

Thus as seen above different classification systems are seen for every shaka.  

=== Shakas ===

=== शाखाः ॥ Shakhas ===

The number of Yajurveda shakas is given variously by different rishis and scholars as 101 shakas (recensions)<ref name=":223222" />, 101 shakas of which 86 were Krishna Yajurveda and 15 belonged to Shukla Yajurveda<ref name=":122" />, 107 according to Sutasamhita, Skanda and Brahmanda Puranas, 109 according to Muktikopanishad, 100 according to Pathanjali in his Mahabhasyam, 86 according to Charanavyuha and Shaunaka. According to Vayu Purana, there were 86 student lineages and thus 86 shakas of Maharshi Vaisampayana are mentioned.<ref name=":13222" /> Vishnupurana and Agnipurana give a number of 27 shakas of Yajurveda.<ref name=":0223222" /> Thus quite some variation is seen in the number of shakas that existed for Yajurveda.  

The number of Yajurveda shakas is given variously by different rishis and scholars as 101 shakas (recensions)<ref name=":223222" />, 101 shakas of which 86 were Krishna Yajurveda and 15 belonged to Shukla Yajurveda<ref name=":122" />, 107 according to Sutasamhita, Skanda and Brahmanda Puranas, 109 according to Muktikopanishad, 100 according to Pathanjali in his Mahabhasyam, 86 according to Charanavyuha and Shaunaka. According to Vayu Purana, there were 86 student lineages and thus 86 shakas of Maharshi Vaisampayana are mentioned.<ref name=":13222" /> Vishnupurana and Agnipurana give a number of 27 shakas of Yajurveda.<ref name=":0223222" /> Thus quite some variation is seen in the number of shakas that existed for Yajurveda.  

Krishna Yajurveda Shakas<ref name=":122" /> : Of the 86 shakas only four are available : Taittiriya, Katha, Kapisthala, and Maitrayani

Krishna Yajurveda Shakas<ref name=":122" /> : Of the 86 shakas only four are available : Taittiriya, Katha, Kapisthala, and Maitrayani

==== कृष्णयजुर्वेद संहिता || Krishna Yajurveda ====

==== कृष्णयजुर्वेद-संहिता || Krishna Yajurveda ====

The term कृष्ण ||  krishna of the shakha is so given due to following reasons  

The term कृष्ण ||  krishna of the shakha is so given due to following reasons  

# It contains both the छन्दोबद्ध Chandas (metrical) and गद्यात्मकम् Gadya (prose) forms of mantras<ref name=":223222" />   

# It contains both the छन्दोबद्ध Chandas (metrical) and गद्यात्मकम् Gadya (prose) forms of mantras<ref name=":223222" />   

# '''कपिष्ठलकठ || Kapisthala-Katha'''  

# '''कपिष्ठलकठ || Kapisthala-Katha'''  

# '''मैत्रायणी || Maitrayani'''  

# '''मैत्रायणी || Maitrayani'''  

==== Brahmanas Aranyakas and Upanishads ====

==== ब्राह्मणानि आरण्यकानि उपनिषदः च ॥ Brahmanas, Aranyakas and Upanishads ====

Related to this Samhita are-<ref name=":1" />

Related to this Samhita are-<ref name=":1" />

# Taittiriya Brahmana

# Taittiriya Brahmana

# Maitrayani Upanishad

# Maitrayani Upanishad

# Maha Narayana Upanishad.

# Maha Narayana Upanishad.

==== शुक्लयजुर्वेद संहिता || Shukla Yajurveda ====

==== शुक्लयजुर्वेद-संहिता || Shukla Yajurveda ====

The term शुक्ला ||  Shukla of the shakha is so given due to following reasons

The term शुक्ला ||  Shukla of the shakha is so given due to following reasons

# It contains only the Chandas (metrical) forms of mantras<ref name=":223222" /> without any prose content.   

# It contains only the Chandas (metrical) forms of mantras<ref name=":223222" /> without any prose content.   

# '''Madhyandina'''  

# '''Madhyandina'''  

# '''Kanva'''  

# '''Kanva'''  

==== Brahmanas Aranyakas and Upanishads ====

==== ब्राह्मणानि आरण्यकानि उपनिषदः च ॥ Brahmanas, Aranyakas and Upanishads ====

Related to this Samhita are-

Related to this Samhita are-

# Satapatha Brahmana. This is a work extensively serving as a general guide to all the Vedas.

# Satapatha Brahmana. This is a work extensively serving as a general guide to all the Vedas.

# Isavasyopanishad  

# Isavasyopanishad  

# Brhadaranyokopanishad

# Brhadaranyokopanishad

==== कृष्णशुक्ल-यजुर्वेदयोः भेदः ====

==== कृष्णशुक्ल-यजुर्वेदयोः भेदः ॥ Differences between Krishna and Shukla Yajurveda ====

Following are few differences between Krishna and Shukla Yajurveda presented by Pt. Rishiram Regmi.<ref name=":122">Regmi, Sri Rishiramji. Article : [http://vedicheritage.gov.in/flipbook/ved_vedang_gp_15/#book/ ''Yajurved ka Sankshipth Parichay''] available in Vedic Heritage Portal.</ref>

Following are few differences between Krishna and Shukla Yajurveda presented by Pt. Rishiram Regmi.<ref name=":122">Regmi, Sri Rishiramji. Article : [http://vedicheritage.gov.in/flipbook/ved_vedang_gp_15/#book/ ''Yajurved ka Sankshipth Parichay''] available in Vedic Heritage Portal.</ref>

{| class="wikitable"

{| class="wikitable"

|Given by Rishi Yajnavalkya

|Given by Rishi Yajnavalkya

|}

|}

=== Devatas, Chandas and Rtvik ===

=== देवताः छन्दसः ऋत्विक् च ॥ Devatas, Chandas and Rtvik ===

The devatas are the same as in Rig veda because a majority of mantras in Yajurveda are taken from there. The Yajurvedic procedural details are recited and conducted by [[Adhvaryu|'''अध्वर्यु || Adhvaryu''']] priest for the proper performance of Yajnas. In Shukla Yajurveda, the mantras have the same chandas as in Rig veda from where they have been   

The devatas are the same as in Rig veda because a majority of mantras in Yajurveda are taken from there. The Yajurvedic procedural details are recited and conducted by [[Adhvaryu|'''अध्वर्यु || Adhvaryu''']] priest for the proper performance of Yajnas. In Shukla Yajurveda, the mantras have the same chandas as in Rig veda from where they have been   

=== विषयम् || Content ===

=== विषयम् || Content ===

It may be noted that while in Rigveda the text is organized according to rishis as mantra drastas, in Yajurveda the rishis are given according to the yajnas. It is a compilation of ritual offering formulas that were said by a priest while an yajamana performed ritual actions such as those before the yajna fire. Yajurveda samhita includes mantras that are distinct yet borrow and build upon the foundation of verses in Rigveda. Unlike the Samaveda which is almost entirely based on Rigveda mantras and structured as songs, the Yajurveda samhitas are in prose and linguistically, they are different from other Vedic texts. Yajurveda text is not just related to rituals or sacrifice, it includes the largest collection of primary Upanishads, influential to various schools of Hindu philosophy.  

It may be noted that while in Rigveda the text is organized according to rishis as mantra drastas, in Yajurveda the rishis are given according to the yajnas. It is a compilation of ritual offering formulas that were said by a priest while an yajamana performed ritual actions such as those before the yajna fire. Yajurveda samhita includes mantras that are distinct yet borrow and build upon the foundation of verses in Rigveda. Unlike the Samaveda which is almost entirely based on Rigveda mantras and structured as songs, the Yajurveda samhitas are in prose and linguistically, they are different from other Vedic texts. Yajurveda text is not just related to rituals or sacrifice, it includes the largest collection of primary Upanishads, influential to various schools of Hindu philosophy.  

=== Famous Mantras ===

=== विशेष-मन्त्राः ॥ Famous Mantras ===

The popular mantras in praise of Lord Siva - श्रीरुद्रप्रस्न || SriRudraprasna – finds a place in this Veda (Shodasa Adhyaya). The other famous suktam पुरुष सूक्तं || Purusha Suktam also occurs here with some modifications.

The popular mantras in praise of Lord Siva - श्रीरुद्रप्रस्न || SriRudraprasna – finds a place in this Veda (Shodasa Adhyaya). The other famous suktam पुरुष सूक्तं || Purusha Suktam also occurs here with some modifications.

==  सामवेद || Saamaveda ==

==  सामवेदः || Samaveda ==

=== Etymology ===

=== व्युत्पत्तिः ॥ Etymology ===

तल्लक्षणमाह जैमिनिः - गीतेषुसामाख्या इति गीयमानेषु मन्त्रेषु सामसंज्ञेत्यर्थः . इति ||  

तल्लक्षणमाह जैमिनिः - गीतेषुसामाख्या इति गीयमानेषु मन्त्रेषु सामसंज्ञेत्यर्थः . इति ||  

Along with the preparation of Soma rasa, praising the devatas by singing Samagana is an important aspect during Somayajna. Instruments such as veena, dundubhi flute and other instruments were used. Shatapata Brahmana states that without Samagana, Somayajna does not yield the desired results.<ref name=":223222" />

Along with the preparation of Soma rasa, praising the devatas by singing Samagana is an important aspect during Somayajna. Instruments such as veena, dundubhi flute and other instruments were used. Shatapata Brahmana states that without Samagana, Somayajna does not yield the desired results.<ref name=":223222" />

=== Samaveda Vibhajana ===

=== सामवेद-विभाजनम् ॥ Samaveda Vibhajana ===

Samaveda Samhita is the shortest of all the vedas given to the world by Jaimini.<ref name=":222" />  Many Sama mantras are derived from the eighth and ninth Mandalas of the Rigveda.<ref name=":223222" />

Samaveda Samhita is the shortest of all the vedas given to the world by Jaimini.<ref name=":222" />  Many Sama mantras are derived from the eighth and ninth Mandalas of the Rigveda.<ref name=":223222" />

{| class="wikitable"

{| class="wikitable"

Jaimineeya Samhita of Samaveda is divided into Purva Archika containing 646 mantras and Uttara Archika 1041, totaling to 1687 mantras.<ref name=":0223222" />

Jaimineeya Samhita of Samaveda is divided into Purva Archika containing 646 mantras and Uttara Archika 1041, totaling to 1687 mantras.<ref name=":0223222" />

=== Shakas ===

=== शाखाः ॥ Shakhas ===

सहस्त्रवर्त्मा सामवेदः |<ref name=":223222" /><ref name=":222" />

सहस्त्रवर्त्मा सामवेदः |<ref name=":223222" /><ref name=":222" />

# '''जैमिनीय || Jaimini'''

# '''जैमिनीय || Jaimini'''

Kauthuma is the widely followed shaka, mainly by Nagara brahmins of Gujarat, while Ranayaneeya is seen among the people of Maharashtra and Jaimineeya shaka is seen in Tamilnadu.  

Kauthuma is the widely followed shaka, mainly by Nagara brahmins of Gujarat, while Ranayaneeya is seen among the people of Maharashtra and Jaimineeya shaka is seen in Tamilnadu.  

=== Devatas, Chandas and Rtvik ===

=== देवताः छन्दसः ऋत्विक् च ॥ Devatas, Chandas and Rtvik ===

All the mantras of the Samaveda are sung by the [[Udgatri|'''उद्गात्रि''' || '''Udgaatri''']] priest during Somayajna. Unlike Rigveda, deities of Samaveda are predominantly Agni, Indra and Soma.<ref name=":222" />

All the mantras of the Samaveda are sung by the [[Udgatri|'''उद्गात्रि''' || '''Udgaatri''']] priest during Somayajna. Unlike Rigveda, deities of Samaveda are predominantly Agni, Indra and Soma.<ref name=":222" />

=== विषयम् || Content ===

=== विषयम् || Content ===

गण Gana texts contain the information about how Samagana is to be sung, While singing the mantras, matras such as deergha, plutha, and pathapaddhati or recitation methods are clearly mentioned in these texts.

गण Gana texts contain the information about how Samagana is to be sung, While singing the mantras, matras such as deergha, plutha, and pathapaddhati or recitation methods are clearly mentioned in these texts.

=== Famous Aspects ===

=== विशेष-विषयाः ॥ Famous Aspects ===

Bharatamuni the author of Natyashastram, cites Samaveda as the origin of music.

Bharatamuni the author of Natyashastram, cites Samaveda as the origin of music.

According to Sharangadeva the author of Sangeeta Ratnakara, musical notes in words arose from Samaveda texts.<ref name=":222" />

According to Sharangadeva the author of Sangeeta Ratnakara, musical notes in words arose from Samaveda texts.<ref name=":222" />

=== Brahmanas, Aranyakas and Upanishads ===

=== ब्राह्मणानि आरण्यकानि उपनिषदः च ॥ Brahmanas, Aranyakas and Upanishads ===

Affiliated to this Samhita are<ref name=":222" />

Affiliated to this Samhita are<ref name=":222" />

# Tandya Maha Brahmana, the biggest and most important, the other seven Brahmanas namely Shadvimshabrahmana, Arsheyabrahmana, Samavidhanabrahmana, Devatadhyayabrahmana,Chanddogyopanishad-brahmana, Vamshabrahmana and Samhitopanishadbrahmana.  

# Tandya Maha Brahmana, the biggest and most important, the other seven Brahmanas namely Shadvimshabrahmana, Arsheyabrahmana, Samavidhanabrahmana, Devatadhyayabrahmana,Chanddogyopanishad-brahmana, Vamshabrahmana and Samhitopanishadbrahmana.  

# Chandogya Upanishad   

# Chandogya Upanishad   

# Kenopanishad, also known as Talavakaropanishad.  

# Kenopanishad, also known as Talavakaropanishad.  

==  अथर्व वेदः || Atharva Veda ==

==  अथर्ववेदः || Atharvaveda ==

=== Etymology ===

=== व्युत्पत्तिः ॥ Etymology ===

Atharvana or Atharva Veda (Samskrit : अथर्वण or अथर्व) थु्र्वी हिंसायाम् धातु undergoes change into थर्व. अथर्व means that which is devoid of himsa or harm to others.   

Atharvana or Atharva Veda (Samskrit : अथर्वण or अथर्व) थु्र्वी हिंसायाम् धातु undergoes change into थर्व. अथर्व means that which is devoid of himsa or harm to others.   

# Contains the knowledge of Brahman   

# Contains the knowledge of Brahman   

# The mantras of this veda were revealed to the rishi named Brahma.   

# The mantras of this veda were revealed to the rishi named Brahma.   

=== Atharva Veda Vibhajana ===

=== अथर्ववेद-विभाजनम् ॥ Atharvaveda Vibhajana ===

The Artharvaveda Samhita is the text revealed to the अथर्वण || Atharvan and [[Angirasa (अङ्गिरसः)|अङ्गिरस || Angirasa]] rishis. Atharvasamhita of Shaunaka shaka has the following divisions of the text.<ref name=":0" />

The Artharvaveda Samhita is the text revealed to the अथर्वण || Atharvan and [[Angirasa (अङ्गिरसः)|अङ्गिरस || Angirasa]] rishis. Atharvasamhita of Shaunaka shaka has the following divisions of the text.<ref name=":0" />

{| class="wikitable"

{| class="wikitable"

!<nowiki>| Mantras      </nowiki>

!<nowiki>| Mantras      </nowiki>

|}It has 20 Kandas, 760<ref name=":223222" />, 730<ref name=":0" /> 731<ref name=":0223222" /> Suktas, 36 Prapathakas and 5987 (5977<ref name=":0223222" />)  mantras. Most of the mantras are metrical, but some sections are in prose. About 20% of the mantras are from Rig veda.

|}It has 20 Kandas, 760<ref name=":223222" />, 730<ref name=":0" /> 731<ref name=":0223222" /> Suktas, 36 Prapathakas and 5987 (5977<ref name=":0223222" />)  mantras. Most of the mantras are metrical, but some sections are in prose. About 20% of the mantras are from Rig veda.

=== Shakas ===

=== शाखाः ॥ Shakhas ===

According to Atharvana Parishista, Charanavyuha, Prapanchahrudaya, Pathanjali's Mahabhasya and Kurma Purana and Sarvanukramani, Atharvana veda had 9 shakas. Another version of Sarvanukramani and Muktikopanishad mention the existence of 50 shakas. The 9 shakas according to Charanavyuha are, slightly different from other versions, given as follows  

According to Atharvana Parishista, Charanavyuha, Prapanchahrudaya, Pathanjali's Mahabhasya and Kurma Purana and Sarvanukramani, Atharvana veda had 9 shakas. Another version of Sarvanukramani and Muktikopanishad mention the existence of 50 shakas. The 9 shakas according to Charanavyuha are, slightly different from other versions, given as follows  

# Pippalada (incomplete version)  

# Pippalada (incomplete version)  

# Saunaka  

# Saunaka  

=== Devatas, Chandas and Rtvik ===

=== देवताः छन्दसः ऋत्विक् च ॥ Devatas, Chandas and Rtvik ===

Like Rigveda from where Atharvana veda takes a significant part, the chandas here include Anustuph, Tristup along with many other new chandas or metrical forms. Worship of many devatas is also seen along with the acceptance of the Supreme Being. The rtvik of Atharvaveda is '''[[Brahma (ब्रह्मा)|ब्रह्मा || Brahma]]''' who supervises the conduct of the Yajnas.  

Like Rigveda from where Atharvana veda takes a significant part, the chandas here include Anustuph, Tristup along with many other new chandas or metrical forms. Worship of many devatas is also seen along with the acceptance of the Supreme Being. The rtvik of Atharvaveda is '''[[Brahma (ब्रह्मा)|ब्रह्मा || Brahma]]''' who supervises the conduct of the Yajnas.  

=== Content ===

=== विषयम् ॥ Content ===

As the Atharva Veda Samhita has some special features it stands apart from the other three Vedas. It deals more with worldly things than with the other worlds and the yajnas mentioned here are utilized as a means to them. Amidst mundane subjects high philosophical ideas are also found in this Veda.   

As the Atharva Veda Samhita has some special features it stands apart from the other three Vedas. It deals more with worldly things than with the other worlds and the yajnas mentioned here are utilized as a means to them. Amidst mundane subjects high philosophical ideas are also found in this Veda.   

The Atharva veda has been a primary source for information about Vedic culture, their customs and beliefs, the social economic conditions, agricultural and scientific matters, the requirements of people in everyday life in Vedic era ranging from mantras for snakes to those associated with kings and governance.  

The Atharva veda has been a primary source for information about Vedic culture, their customs and beliefs, the social economic conditions, agricultural and scientific matters, the requirements of people in everyday life in Vedic era ranging from mantras for snakes to those associated with kings and governance.  

=== Famous Aspects ===

=== विशेष-विषयाः ॥ Famous Aspects ===

* पृथ्वी सूक्तं || Prithvi Suktam

* पृथ्वी सूक्तं || Prithvi Suktam

* Madhuvidya Suktam

* Madhuvidya Suktam

* Kanda 15 is called व्रात्यकाण्ड || Vratya kanda. It deals about people whose origin and nature is debated by many scholars, and they did not follow any kind of vaidika kriyas, nor had respect for any rituals.<ref name=":223222" />

* Kanda 15 is called व्रात्यकाण्ड || Vratya kanda. It deals about people whose origin and nature is debated by many scholars, and they did not follow any kind of vaidika kriyas, nor had respect for any rituals.<ref name=":223222" />

=== Brahmanas, Aranyakas and Upanishads ===

=== ब्राह्मणानि आरण्यकानि उपनिषदः च ॥ Brahmanas, Aranyakas and Upanishads ===

Only one Brahmana called Gopatha Brahmana has been discovered. No Aranyaka of this Veda has come to light so far.  

Only one Brahmana called Gopatha Brahmana has been discovered. No Aranyaka of this Veda has come to light so far.  

== Sub Classification of Vedas ==

== Sub Classification of Vedas ==

Different texts of Vedic literature is further classified as follows<ref>Vettam, Mani. (1975). ''[https://archive.org/details/puranicencyclopa00maniuoft Puranic encyclopaedia : A comprehensive dictionary with special reference to the epic and Puranic literature.]'' Delhi:Motilal Banasidass.</ref>.

Different texts of Vedic literature is further classified as follows<ref>Vettam, Mani. (1975). ''[https://archive.org/details/puranicencyclopa00maniuoft Puranic encyclopaedia : A comprehensive dictionary with special reference to the epic and Puranic literature.]'' Delhi:Motilal Banasidass.</ref>.

=== संहिता || Samhitas ===

=== संहिताः || Samhitas ===

Samhitas (Samskrit : संहिता) deal primarily with yagas and are collections of mantras in praise of deities for attaining prosperity in the world and happiness hereafter. There are four Vedic Samhitas: the Rig-Veda, Sama-Veda, Yajur-Veda, and Atharva-Veda, most of which are available in several shakas (recensions).  

Samhitas (Samskrit : संहिता) deal primarily with yagas and are collections of mantras in praise of deities for attaining prosperity in the world and happiness hereafter. There are four Vedic Samhitas: the Rig-Veda, Sama-Veda, Yajur-Veda, and Atharva-Veda, most of which are available in several shakas (recensions).  

This portion is mainly meant for [[Brahmacharya (walking on the path of the divine)|ब्रह्मचारी || Brahmacharis]], those who are in the first stage of their lives.

This portion is mainly meant for [[Brahmacharya (walking on the path of the divine)|ब्रह्मचारी || Brahmacharis]], those who are in the first stage of their lives.

=== ब्राह्मण || Brahmanas ===

=== ब्राह्मणानि || Brahmanas ===

आपस्तम्ब || Apastamba defines Brahmanas as ‘कर्मचोदना ब्राह्मणानि || Karmacodana Brahmanani’ meaning Brahmanas are injunctions for the performance of sacrificial rites (Apasthamba Shrau. Sut. 34 and 35). Some believe that what are not mantras are brahmanas (Jaimineeya Purvamimamsa 2.1.33)

आपस्तम्ब || Apastamba defines Brahmanas as ‘कर्मचोदना ब्राह्मणानि || Karmacodana Brahmanani’ meaning Brahmanas are injunctions for the performance of sacrificial rites (Apasthamba Shrau. Sut. 34 and 35). Some believe that what are not mantras are brahmanas (Jaimineeya Purvamimamsa 2.1.33)

This portion of a Veda guides people in the performance of Vedic Karmas or sacrificial rituals; they are the prose explanations of the method of using the mantras in the Yajnas and other rituals. Brahmana is suitable for the गृहस्थ || Grihasthas (the householders), those belonging to the second stage in life.

This portion of a Veda guides people in the performance of Vedic Karmas or sacrificial rituals; they are the prose explanations of the method of using the mantras in the Yajnas and other rituals. Brahmana is suitable for the गृहस्थ || Grihasthas (the householders), those belonging to the second stage in life.

=== अरण्यक || Aranyakas ===

=== अरण्यकानि || Aranyakas ===

Aranyakas, "wilderness texts" or "forest treatisies" अरण्येऽधीयूरान् meaning texts to be studied in forests as mentioned in Taittiriya Aranyaka, were composed by people who meditated in the woods as recluses and are the third part of the Vedas. The texts contain discussions and interpretations of ceremonies, from ritualisitic to symbolic meta-ritualistic points of view<ref name=":2">Malladi, Sri. Suryanarayana Sastry (1982) ''Samskruta Vangmaya Charitra, Volume 1 Vaidika Vangmayam'' Hyderabad : Andhra Sarasvata Parishad</ref>.  

Aranyakas, "wilderness texts" or "forest treatisies" अरण्येऽधीयूरान् meaning texts to be studied in forests as mentioned in Taittiriya Aranyaka, were composed by people who meditated in the woods as recluses and are the third part of the Vedas. The texts contain discussions and interpretations of ceremonies, from ritualisitic to symbolic meta-ritualistic points of view<ref name=":2">Malladi, Sri. Suryanarayana Sastry (1982) ''Samskruta Vangmaya Charitra, Volume 1 Vaidika Vangmayam'' Hyderabad : Andhra Sarasvata Parishad</ref>.  

The Aranyaka portion is addressed to the people of that category offering a substitute for rituals. They teach methods of meditation based upon symbolical interpretations of sacrificial rites. It is a process of performing Yajnas and sacrifices at the mental level. For example Brihadaranyaka Upanishad starts with such analytical mental performance of Aswamedha Yajna. The Aranyakas are intended for the Vanaprasthas or people who prepare themselves for the last stage in life i.e. Sanyasa. Aranyakas form the transition link between the ritual of the Brahmanas and the philosophy of the Upanishads.  

The Aranyaka portion is addressed to the people of that category offering a substitute for rituals. They teach methods of meditation based upon symbolical interpretations of sacrificial rites. It is a process of performing Yajnas and sacrifices at the mental level. For example Brihadaranyaka Upanishad starts with such analytical mental performance of Aswamedha Yajna. The Aranyakas are intended for the Vanaprasthas or people who prepare themselves for the last stage in life i.e. Sanyasa. Aranyakas form the transition link between the ritual of the Brahmanas and the philosophy of the Upanishads.  

=== उपनिषद् || Upanishads ===

=== उपनिषदः || Upanishads ===

The number of works that go by the name Upanishad and available today in print exceeds 200. The Muktikopanishad gives a list of 108 Upanishads. However, the principal Upanishads are accepted to be those which Sri Adi Sankaracharya chose to comment upon.  

The number of works that go by the name Upanishad and available today in print exceeds 200. The Muktikopanishad gives a list of 108 Upanishads. However, the principal Upanishads are accepted to be those which Sri Adi Sankaracharya chose to comment upon.