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[[Vedas (वेदाः)|Veda]] (Samskrit : वेदः) is regarded as revealed scripture, self-explanatory and self authoritative, according to many traditional Indian 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.

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

==परिचयः || Introduction==

==परिचयः || Introduction==

महर्षिः वेदव्यासः || 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.

महर्षिः वेदव्यासः || 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.

#[[Rigveda|ऋग्वेदः || The Rigveda]]

#[[Rigveda (ऋग्वेदः)|ऋग्वेदः || The Rigveda]]

#[[Yajurveda|यजुर्वेदः || The Yajurveda]]

#[[Yajurveda (यजुर्वेदः)|यजुर्वेदः || The Yajurveda]]

#[[Samaveda (सामवेद)|सामवेदः || The Samaveda]]

#[[Samaveda (सामवेद)|सामवेदः || The Samaveda]]

#[[Atharvaveda|अथर्वणवेदः || The Atharvanaveda]]

#[[Atharvaveda (अथर्ववेदः)|अथर्वणवेदः || The Atharvanaveda]]

Of these, the first three were the principal original division, also called Trayi vidya (त्रयी-विद्या), 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 Trayi vidya (त्रयी-विद्या), 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 || Rgveda==

===व्युत्पत्तिः ॥ Etymology===

===व्युत्पत्तिः ॥ Etymology===

The Samskrit धातुः "ऋच्" (तुदादि-गणः) is used in the meaning स्तुतिः || Stuti (to praise). That which has the description of the quality, action and nature of substances is said to be ऋक् (Rk).<ref name=":022322222">Shastri, Jwalanth Kumar. (2009) ''Ved aur vedarth'' Rajasthan: Sri Ghudhmal Prahladkumar Arya Dharmarth Nyasa</ref> Variously called as 'rk or rik (ऋक्)', 'richas (ऋचाः)', 'rig (ऋग्)', these Mantras are meant for the praise of the deities.

The Samskrit धातुः "ऋच्" (तुदादि-गणः) is used in the meaning स्तुतिः || Stuti (to praise). That which has the description of the quality, action and nature of substances is said to be ऋक् (Rk).<ref name=":022322222">Shastri, Jwalanth Kumar. (2009) ''Ved aur vedarth'' Rajasthan: Sri Ghudhmal Prahladkumar Arya Dharmarth Nyasa</ref> Variously called as 'rk or rik (ऋक्)', 'richas (ऋचाः)', 'rig (ऋग्)', these Mantras are meant for the praise of the deities.

Rigveda contains primarily Mantras (set in 2, 3 or 4 padas | पादाः) dealing with the stuti for devatas, their invocation, yajnakarmas, karmakanda (कर्मकाण्डः), upasana mantras (उपासना-मन्त्राः), mantras related to different worldly activities such as [[Dana (दानम्)|dana]] (दानम्), conduct, medical remedies etc.

Rgveda contains primarily Mantras (set in 2, 3 or 4 padas | पादाः) dealing with the stuti for devatas, their invocation, yajnakarmas, karmakanda (कर्मकाण्डः), upasana mantras (उपासना-मन्त्राः), mantras related to different worldly activities such as [[Dana (दानम्)|dana]] (दानम्), conduct, medical remedies etc.

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

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

There are two types of divisions of Rigveda namely, Mandala krama ( मण्डल-क्रमः) and Ashtaka krama (अष्टक-क्रमः). They arose mainly for self study (अध्ययनम् ) and teaching (अध्यापनम् ). A small lesson is easily grasped or understood and committed to memory.(See footnote 3 on Page 35 of Reference 1<ref name=":022322222" />) 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 (मण्डल-क्रमः) and Ashtaka krama (अष्टक-क्रमः). They arose mainly for self study (अध्ययनम्) and teaching (अध्यापनम्). A small lesson is easily grasped or understood and committed to memory (See footnote 3 on Page 35 of Reference 1<ref name=":022322222" />). There are different versions advocated by different scholars about the number of suktas and mantras available in Rigveda.

====मण्डल-क्रमः ॥ Mandala Krama====

====मण्डल-क्रमः ॥ Mandala Krama====

This division of the Rigveda is most popular and systematic. According to the Mandala krama, Rigveda Samhita is divided into 10 Mandalas or books. The Mandalas are subdivided into  85 Anuvakas (अनुवाकाः), 1028 Suktas (सूक्तानि) and 10522 mantras (मन्त्राः)<ref name=":022322222" /> and 10552 mantras according to another version<ref name=":12322222">Rigveda Classification on [http://vedicheritage.gov.in/samhitas/rigveda/shakala-samhita/ Vedic Heritage Portal]</ref>. In Rig veda, in Shakala samhita (शाकल-संहिता), 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=":022322222" /><ref name=":12322222" />

This division of the Rigveda is most popular and systematic. According to the Mandala krama, Rigveda Samhita is divided into 10 Mandalas or books. The Mandalas are subdivided into  85 Anuvakas (अनुवाकाः), 1028 Suktas (सूक्तानि) and 10522 mantras (मन्त्राः)<ref name=":022322222" /> and 10552 mantras according to another version<ref name=":12322222">Rigveda Classification on [http://vedicheritage.gov.in/samhitas/rigveda/shakala-samhita/ Vedic Heritage Portal]</ref>. In Rig veda, in Shakala samhita (शाकल-संहिता), 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=":022322222" /><ref name=":12322222" />

{| class="wikitable"

{| class="wikitable"

!मण्डलम् ॥ Mandala      ►

!मण्डलम् ॥ Mandala      ►

*Each ''Anuvaka'' consists of a number of S''uktas'' (hymns).

*Each ''Anuvaka'' consists of a number of S''uktas'' (hymns).

*Each ''Sukta'' is made up of a number of Mantras (verses) called '''''rks'''''.  

*Each ''Sukta'' is made up of a number of Mantras (verses) called '''''rks'''''.  

Rigveda contains 10552 mantras (about 10,170 Rks) according to some other scholars, spread over 1028 Suktas and 85 Anuvakas in 10 Mandalas.<ref name=":0322222">Introduction to Samhitas in [http://vedicheritage.gov.in/samhitas/ Vedic Heritage Portal]</ref> According to शौनक-ऋषिः ॥ Shaunaka rishi there are 10580 mantras (Page 17 of Reference 4).<ref name=":22322222">Gopal Reddy, Mudiganti and Sujata Reddy, Mudiganti (1997) ''[https://archive.org/stream/SAMSKRUTAKAVIJEEVITAMULUByMALLADISURYANARAYANASASTRIGARU/SAMSKRUTA%20SAHITYA%20CHARITRA%20BY%20MUDUGANTI%20GOPALA%20REDDI%26SUJATA%20REDDI%20#page/n33/mode/2up Sanskrita Saahitya Charitra] (Vaidika Vangmayam - Loukika Vangamayam, A critical approach)'' Hyderabad : P. S. Telugu University</ref>

Rigveda contains 10552 mantras (about 10,170 Rks) according to some other scholars, spread over 1028 Suktas (1017 Suktas plus 11 Valakhilya Suktas) and 85 Anuvakas in 10 Mandalas.<ref name=":0322222">Introduction to Samhitas in [http://vedicheritage.gov.in/samhitas/ Vedic Heritage Portal]</ref><ref name=":22322222" /> According to शौनक-ऋषिः ॥ Shaunaka rishi there are 10580 mantras (Page 17 of Reference 4).<ref name=":22322222">Gopal Reddy, Mudiganti and Sujata Reddy, Mudiganti (1997) ''[https://archive.org/stream/SAMSKRUTAKAVIJEEVITAMULUByMALLADISURYANARAYANASASTRIGARU/SAMSKRUTA%20SAHITYA%20CHARITRA%20BY%20MUDUGANTI%20GOPALA%20REDDI%26SUJATA%20REDDI%20#page/n33/mode/2up Sanskrita Saahitya Charitra] (Vaidika Vangmayam - Loukika Vangamayam, A critical approach)'' Hyderabad : P. S. Telugu University</ref>

In Rigveda, not only are the suktas and mantras counted but a system of counting even the Aksharas (अक्षरम् | letters) exists given in texts called as '''Sarvanukramanis (सर्वानुक्रमणी).'''  Such system leaves no scope of additions or deletion of letters in the Veda. This was the main reason why the Vedic text has not undergone any change since ancient times.

In Rigveda, not only are the suktas and mantras counted but a system of counting even the Aksharas (अक्षरम् | letters) exists given in texts called as '''Sarvanukramanis (सर्वानुक्रमणी).'''  Such system leaves no scope of additions or deletion of letters in the Veda. This was the main reason why the Vedic text has not undergone any change since ancient times.

The differences in the counting of mantras is mainly because of the differences in the shakhas.  Additionally in modern times the differences in counting the Rks is attributed to breaking the mantras having 4 padas (पादाः) into 2 padas each (Page No 6 of Reference 4<ref name=":22322222" />).

The differences in the counting of mantras is mainly because of the differences in the shakhas.  Additionally in modern times the differences in counting the Rks is attributed to breaking the mantras having 4 padas (पादाः) into 2 padas each (Page No 6 of Reference 4<ref name=":22322222" />).

====वालखिल्य or खिलसूक्ताः || Valakhilya or Khila Suktas====

====वालखिल्य || Valakhilya Suktas====

According to शौनक-अनुक्रमणिका ॥ Shaunaka Anukramanika, 11 suktas of वालखिल्य-s || Valakhilyas are present. Removing which from the total number of suktas (1028), will yield 1017 Suktas in Rigveda Samhita. वष्कल ॥ Vashkala or बाष्कल-शाखा ॥ Bashkala shakha has 8 suktas more than 1017. Thereby it is mentioned as having 1025 Suktas.<ref name=":022322222" /><ref name=":22322222" />

According to शौनक-अनुक्रमणिका ॥ Shaunaka Anukramanika, 11 suktas of वालखिल्य-s || Valakhilyas are present. Removing which from the total number of suktas (1028), will yield 1017 Suktas in Rigveda Samhita. वष्कल ॥ Vashkala or बाष्कल-शाखा ॥ Bashkala shakha has 8 suktas more than 1017. Thereby it is mentioned as having 1025 Suktas.<ref name=":022322222" /><ref name=":22322222" />

'Khila' is defined as the Appendix (those which are appended in the end). They are included in the vedic study practice (स्वाध्याय) but lack the Padapatha (पदापाठः) and excluded in Aksharaganana (अक्षरगणना | counting of Aksharas) thus their exact nature is unclear. The location of Khila Suktas is clear in Mandala krama, starting from Suktas 49 to 59 including 80 mantras in the 8th Mandala.<ref name=":42">Upadhyaya, Baldev. (1958) ''[https://archive.org/details/VaidikSahityaBaldevUpadhyaya1958 Vaidik Sahitya]''.</ref>

'Khila' is defined as the Appendix (those which are appended in the end). They are included in the vedic study practice (स्वाध्याय) but lack the Padapatha (पदापाठः) and excluded in Aksharaganana (अक्षरगणना | counting of Aksharas) thus their exact nature is unclear. The location of Khila Suktas is clear in Mandala krama, starting from Suktas 49 to 59 including 80 mantras in the 8th Mandala.<ref name=":42">Upadhyaya, Baldev. (1958) ''[https://archive.org/details/VaidikSahityaBaldevUpadhyaya1958 Vaidik Sahitya]''.</ref>

====अष्टक-क्रमः ॥ Ashtaka Krama====

====अष्टक-क्रमः ॥ Ashtaka Krama====

Presently Shakala (शाकल), Bashkala (बाष्कल), Shankhyayana (शाङ्ख्यायन), Mandukayana (माण्डूकायन) and Ashvalayana (अश्वलायन) shakas of Rig veda though are said to be available shakas, apart from Shakala shaka, the Samhita part of other four shakas are unavailable.<ref>Pt. Shriram Adhikari's Article : ''[http://vedicheritage.gov.in/pdf/ved_vedang_gp_14.pdf Rigved ka parichay evam vaishistya]'' on Vedic Heritage Portal</ref>

Presently Shakala (शाकल), Bashkala (बाष्कल), Shankhyayana (शाङ्ख्यायन), Mandukayana (माण्डूकायन) and Ashvalayana (अश्वलायन) shakas of Rig veda though are said to be available shakas, apart from Shakala shaka, the Samhita part of other four shakas are unavailable.<ref>Pt. Shriram Adhikari's Article : ''[http://vedicheritage.gov.in/pdf/ved_vedang_gp_14.pdf Rigved ka parichay evam vaishistya]'' on Vedic Heritage Portal</ref>

According to सर्वानुक्रमणि-वृत्तिः ॥ Sarvanukramani vritti, अहिर्बुध्न्यसंहिता ॥ Ahirbudhnyasamhita, मुक्तिकोपनिषद् ॥ Muktikopanishad and पतञ्जलेः महाभाष्यम् ॥ Patanjali's Mahabhashya, and recently many scholars opined that Rigveda had 21 shakhas.

According to सर्वानुक्रमणि-वृत्तिः ॥ Sarvanukramani vritti, अहिर्बुध्न्यसंहिता ॥ Ahirbudhnyasamhita, मुक्तिकोपनिषद् ॥ Muktikopanishad and पतञ्जलेः महाभाष्यम् ॥ Patanjali's Mahabhashya, and recently many scholars opined that Rigveda had 21 shakhas. Of these five shakas are mentioned as important in the book 'Charanavyuha', They are<ref name=":42" />

 

However, according to Pt. Satyavrat Samashrami<ref name=":022322222" />, Rig veda has only 2 ancient shakhas namely, Shakala (शाकलः) and Mandukeya (माण्डूकेयः). These two shakhas became 21 shakhas 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 विकृति-कौमुदी ॥ 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><blockquote>śākalyaseya śataṃ śiṣyā naiṣṭhikabrahmacāriṇaḥ | pañca teṣāṃ gṛhasthāste dharmaniṣṭhāśca kuṭumbinaḥ ||</blockquote><blockquote>śiśiro vāṣkalo sāṃkhyo vātsyaścaivāśvalāyanaḥ | pañcaite śākalāḥ śiṣyāḥ śākhābhedapravarttakāḥ ||</blockquote>Meaning : Shakala had 100 students who were brahmacharis. Of them, 5 who were having dharmanishtha (धर्मनिष्ठा) were grhasthas bearing the responsibility of maintaining a family. Shishira (शिशिरः), Vashkala (वाष्कलः Bashkala), Sankhya (शाङ्ख्यः), Vatsya (वात्स्यः) and Ashvalayana (अश्वलायनः) were the five disciples who were the preachers (प्रवर्तकाः | pravartakas) of the different shakhas.<ref name=":022322222" /> Ashvalayana Samhita was available as lately as 17th century but is presently unavailable. शाङ्खायन-संहिता ॥ Sankhayana samhita is not available but its Brahmanas and Aranyakas are available. Some scholars opine that शाङ्खायन ॥ Sankhayana and कौषीतकी शाखाः॥ Kaushitaki shakhas are one and the same.<ref name=":22322222" />

However, according to Pt. Satyavrat Samashrami<ref name=":022322222" />, Rig veda has only 2 ancient shakhas namely, Shakala (शाकलः) and Mandukeya (माण्डूकेयः). These two shakhas became 21 shakhas 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 विकृति-कौमुदी ॥ 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><blockquote>śākalyaseya śataṃ śiṣyā naiṣṭhikabrahmacāriṇaḥ | pañca teṣāṃ gṛhasthāste dharmaniṣṭhāśca kuṭumbinaḥ ||</blockquote><blockquote>śiśiro vāṣkalo sāṃkhyo vātsyaścaivāśvalāyanaḥ | pañcaite śākalāḥ śiṣyāḥ śākhābhedapravarttakāḥ ||</blockquote>Meaning : Shakalya had 100 students who were brahmacharis. Of them, 5 who were having dharmanishtha (धर्मनिष्ठा) were grhasthas bearing the responsibility of maintaining a family. Shishira (शिशिरः), Vashkala (वाष्कलः Bashkala), Sankhya (शाङ्ख्यः), Vatsya (वात्स्यः) and Ashvalayana (अश्वलायनः) were the five disciples who were the preachers (प्रवर्तकाः | pravartakas) of the different shakhas.<ref name=":022322222" /> Ashvalayana Samhita was available as lately as 17th century but is presently unavailable. शाङ्खायन-संहिता ॥ Sपankhayana samhita is not available but its Brahmanas and Aranyakas are available. Some scholars opine that शाङ्खायन ॥ Sankhayana and कौषीतकी शाखाः॥ Kaushitaki shakhas are one and the same.<ref name=":22322222" />

===विषयविभागाः ॥ Vishayavibhaga===

===विषयविभागाः ॥ Vishayavibhaga===

The topics dealt with in the ऋग्वेद-संहिता ॥ Rigveda Samhita can be classified into 3 groups.

The topics dealt with in the ऋग्वेद-संहिता ॥ Rigveda Samhita can be classified into 3 groups.

*'''इतिहासपराः ॥ Miscellaneous''' : Subjects like marriage, war etc., which depict the nature of society of those times are described.

*'''इतिहासपराः ॥ Miscellaneous''' : Subjects like marriage, war etc., which depict the nature of society of those times are described.

===ब्राह्मणानि आरण्यकानि उपनिषदः च ॥ Brahmanas, Aranyakas and Upanishads<ref name=":0322222" /> ===

===ब्राह्मणानि आरण्यकानि उपनिषदः च ॥ Brahmanas, Aranyakas and Upanishads<ref name=":0322222" /> ===

*ऐतरेय-ब्रह्मणं कौषीतकी ब्राह्मणमं च ॥ Aitareya and Kausitaki Brahmanas

*Aitareya (ऐतरेय) and Kausitaki (कौषीतकी) Brahmanas

*ऐतरेय-आरण्यकं शाङ्खायन-आरण्यकं च ॥ Aitareya and Sankhyayana Aranyakas

*Aitareya (ऐतरेय)and Sankhyayana (शाङ्खायन-आरण्यकम्) Aranyakas

*ऐतरेय-उपनिषद् ॥ Aitareya Upanishad

*Aitareya Upanishad (ऐतरेय-उपनिषद्)

==यजुर्वेदः || Yajurveda==

==यजुर्वेदः || Yajurveda==

===व्युत्पत्तिः ॥ Etymology===

===व्युत्पत्तिः ॥ Etymology===

According to शब्दकल्पद्रुमः ॥ Shabdakalpadruma,<blockquote>इज्यतेऽनेनेति यजुः || ijyate'neneti yajuḥ ||</blockquote>Meaning: performance of yajnas using this (mantra) hence called यजुस् ॥ Yajus.<blockquote>अनियताक्षरावसानो यजुः ॥ aniyatākṣarāvasāno yajuḥ ॥</blockquote>Meaning: that which has no regulation (metrical) of letters is called Yajus.<ref name=":22322222" />

According to Shabdakalpadruma (शब्दकल्पद्रुमः),<blockquote>इज्यतेऽनेनेति यजुः || ijyate'neneti yajuḥ ||</blockquote>Meaning: performance of yajnas using this (mantra) hence called यजुस् ॥ Yajus.<blockquote>अनियताक्षरावसानो यजुः ॥ aniyatākṣarāvasāno yajuḥ ॥</blockquote>Meaning: that which has no regulation (metrical) of letters is called Yajus.<ref name=":22322222" />

According to Pt Gajanan Shastri - the word yajus is derived by the combination of यज् || yaj and उसि || usi.<ref name=":1322222">Singh, Ahilya. (2010) PhD Thesis Title: [http://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/bitstream/10603/180070/3/03_chapter%201.pdf Pracheen bharat mein aarthik jeevan prarambh se vaidik kaal tak]. V. B. S. Purvanchal University.</ref><blockquote>गद्यात्मको यजुः || gadyātmako yajuḥ ||</blockquote>Meaning: Yajus are (the mantras) in prose form.<ref name=":122">Yajurveda Introduction as given in [http://vedicheritage.gov.in/samhitas/yajurveda/ Vedic Heritage Portal]</ref>

According to Pt Gajanan Shastri - the word yajus is derived by the combination of यज् || yaj and उसि || usi.<ref name=":1322222">Singh, Ahilya. (2010) PhD Thesis Title: [http://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/bitstream/10603/180070/3/03_chapter%201.pdf Pracheen bharat mein aarthik jeevan prarambh se vaidik kaal tak]. V. B. S. Purvanchal University.</ref><blockquote>गद्यात्मको यजुः || gadyātmako yajuḥ ||</blockquote>Meaning: Yajus are (the mantras) in prose form.<ref name=":122">Yajurveda Introduction as given in [http://vedicheritage.gov.in/samhitas/yajurveda/ Vedic Heritage Portal]</ref>

Following texts clearly define the purpose of "Yajus" mantras in yajnas and hence the name Yajurveda is given.

Following texts clearly define the purpose of "Yajus" mantras in yajnas and hence the name Yajurveda is given.

*निरुक्तम् ॥ [[Nirukta]], यजुः यजतेः । ७.१२ ।<ref>Nirukta ([https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%95%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D/%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%AA%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8B%E0%A4%A7%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%83 Adhyaya 7])</ref>yajuḥ yajateḥ । 7.12 । यज्ञ-s || Yajnas are conducted with यजुस् ॥ Yajus (mantras).

*[[Nirukta]], यजुः यजतेः । ७.१२ ।<ref>Nirukta ([https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%95%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D/%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%AA%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8B%E0%A4%A7%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%83 Adhyaya 7])</ref>yajuḥ yajateḥ । 7.12 । Yajnas are conducted with यजुस् ॥ Yajus (mantras).

*कठसंहिता ॥ Katha Samhita (27.1), यजर्भियजन्ति ॥ yajarbhiyajanti and (Kath. Samh. 200.21) यजुस्तस्माद् (यज्ञात्) अजायत ॥ yajustasmād (yajñāt) ajāyata

*Katha Samhita (कठसंहिता 27.1) यजर्भियजन्ति ॥ yajarbhiyajanti and (Kath. Samh. 200.21) यजुस्तस्माद् (यज्ञात्) अजायत ॥ yajustasmād (yajñāt) ajāyata

*ब्रह्माण्डपुराणम् ॥ Brahmanda Purana : यच्छिष्टं तु यजुर्वेदे तेन यज्ञमयुंजत । यजनात्स यजुर्वेद इति शास्त्रविनिश्चयः ।। ३४.२२ ।। yacchiṣṭaṃ tu yajurvede tena yajñamayuṃjata । yajanātsa yajurveda iti śāstraviniścayaḥ ।। 34.22 ।। (Brah. Pura. Purvabhaga 34.22)<ref>Brahmanda Purana ([https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A3%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%AA%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A3%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D/%E0%A4%AA%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%AD%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%97%E0%A4%83/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%A7%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%83_%E0%A5%A9%E0%A5%AA Purvabhaga Adhyaya 34])</ref>

*Brahmanda Purana (ब्रह्माण्डपुराणम्) : यच्छिष्टं तु यजुर्वेदे तेन यज्ञमयुंजत । यजनात्स यजुर्वेद इति शास्त्रविनिश्चयः ।। ३४.२२ ।। yacchiṣṭaṃ tu yajurvede tena yajñamayuṃjata । yajanātsa yajurveda iti śāstraviniścayaḥ ।। 34.22 ।। (Brah. Pura. Purvabhaga 34.22)<ref>Brahmanda Purana ([https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A3%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%AA%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A3%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D/%E0%A4%AA%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%AD%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%97%E0%A4%83/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%A7%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%83_%E0%A5%A9%E0%A5%AA Purvabhaga Adhyaya 34])</ref>

===यजुर्वेद-विभजनम् ॥ Yajurveda Vibhajana===

===यजुर्वेद-विभजनम् ॥ Yajurveda Vibhajana===

The divisions of the text for शुक्लयजुर्वेदः ॥ Shukla Yajurveda are slightly different and include a combination of these as given below (See Page xix of the Introduction in Reference <ref>Swaminathan, C. R. (1997) ''[http://ignca.nic.in/eBooks/KANVASATAPATHABRAHMAAAM_Vol_II.pdf Kanvasatapathabrahmanam Volume 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 text for शुक्लयजुर्वेदः ॥ Shukla Yajurveda are slightly different and include a combination of these divisions as given below (See Page xix of the Introduction in Reference <ref>Swaminathan, C. R. (1997) ''[http://ignca.nic.in/eBooks/KANVASATAPATHABRAHMAAAM_Vol_II.pdf Kanvasatapathabrahmanam Volume 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"

{| class="wikitable"

!काण्डः ॥ Kanda      ►

!काण्डः ॥ Kanda      ►

!काण्डिका ॥ Kandika

!काण्डिका ॥ Kandika

|}

|}

*माध्यन्दिन-शाखा ॥ Madhyandina Shakha : 40 अध्यायाः ॥ Adhyayas and 1975 मन्त्राः ॥ mantras, 90525 अक्षराणि ॥ aksharas.<ref name=":02222">Topic : Yajus samhita from ''Vaidika Vangmayasya itihasa bharatiya samskriti cha, Volume: Vedaparichaya'' by Rastriya Samskrit Samsthan.</ref>

*Madhyandina Shakha (माध्यन्दिन-शाखा) : 40 Adhyayas (अध्यायाः) and 1975 mantras (मन्त्राः), 90525 aksharas (अक्षराणि).<ref name=":02222">Topic : Yajus samhita from ''Vaidika Vangmayasya itihasa bharatiya samskriti cha, Volume: Vedaparichaya'' by Rastriya Samskrit Samsthan.</ref>

*काण्व-संहिता ॥ Kanva Shaka : 40 अध्यायाः ॥ Adhyayas and 2086 मन्त्राः ॥ mantras.<ref name=":02222" />

*Kanva Shaka (काण्व-संहिता) : 40 अध्यायाः ॥ Adhyayas and 2086 मन्त्राः ॥ mantras.<ref name=":02222" />

The divisions of the text for कृष्ण-यजुर्वेदः ॥ Krishna Yajurveda have different arrangements. Following are the textual divisions in तैत्तिरीय-शाखा ॥ Taittriya shakha which is representative of Krishna Yajurveda.<ref name=":02222" />

The divisions of the text for Krishna Yajurveda (कृष्ण-यजुर्वेदः) have different arrangements. Following are the textual divisions in Taittriya shakha (तैत्तिरीय-शाखा) which is representative of Krishna Yajurveda.<ref name=":02222" />

{| class="wikitable"

{| class="wikitable"

!काण्डः ॥ Kanda      ►

!काण्डः ॥ Kanda      ►

!अनुवाकः ॥ Anuvaka      ►

!अनुवाकः ॥ Anuvaka      ►

!मन्त्रः वा काण्डिका ॥ Mantra or Kandika

!मन्त्रः वा काण्डिका ॥ Mantra or Kandika

|}In some south Indian parts where this shakha is widely followed, there are other terms such as Panasa and प्रश्नः ॥ Prashna<ref name=":12222">Regmi, Sri Rishiramji. Article : [http://vedicheritage.gov.in/flipbook/ved_vedang_gp_15/#book/ ''Yajurved ka Sankshipth Parichay''] available in Vedic Heritage Portal.</ref> (ex: रुद्रप्रश्नः ॥ Rudraprasha) are in usage. सारस्वत् ॥Saraswat and आर्षेय ॥ Arsheya system of classification are also seen for Krishna Yajurveda.<ref name=":022322222" />

|}In some south Indian parts where this shakha is widely followed, there are other terms such as Panasa and Prashna (प्रश्नः)<ref name=":12222">Regmi, Sri Rishiramji. Article : [http://vedicheritage.gov.in/flipbook/ved_vedang_gp_15/#book/ ''Yajurved ka Sankshipth Parichay''] available in Vedic Heritage Portal.</ref> (ex: रुद्रप्रश्नः ॥ Rudraprashna) which are in usage. Saraswat (सारस्वत्) and Arsheya  (आर्षेय) system of classification are also seen for Krishna Yajurveda.<ref name=":022322222" />

*तैत्तिरीय-शाखा ॥ Taittriya Shakha - 7 काण्डाः ॥ kandas, 44 प्रपाठकाः ॥ Prapathakas, 651 अनुवाकाः ॥ Anuvakas (631 according to Page 9 of Reference<ref name=":1322222" /> ), 2198 काण्डिकाः ॥ Kandikas are present.<ref name=":02222" />

*तैत्तिरीय-शाखा ॥ Taittriya Shakha - 7 काण्डाः ॥ kandas, 44 प्रपाठकाः ॥ Prapathakas, 651 अनुवाकाः ॥ Anuvakas (631 according to Page 9 of Reference<ref name=":1322222" /> ), 2198 काण्डिकाः ॥ Kandikas are present.<ref name=":02222" />

*मैत्रायणी शाखा ॥ Maitrayani Shaka - 4 काण्डाः ॥ kandas, 11 प्रपाठकाः ॥ Prapatakas, 3144 मन्त्राः ॥ mantras.<ref name=":02222" />

*मैत्रायणी शाखा ॥ Maitrayani Shaka - 4 काण्डाः ॥ kandas, 11 प्रपाठकाः ॥ Prapatakas, 3144 मन्त्राः ॥ mantras.<ref name=":02222" />

|}

|}

===विषयम् || Vishayam (Content)===

===विषयम् || Vishayam (Content)===

Whether Krishna or Shukla, both the shakhas of Yajurveda deal primarily with the कर्मकाण्डः ॥ karmakanda and are also called यज्ञकाण्डः ॥ yajnakanda<ref name=":02222" />. All the shakha texts deal with detailed descriptions of श्रौतयज्ञाः ॥ Shrauta yajnas like राजसूयः ॥ [[Rajasuya]], वाजपेयः ॥ [[Vajapeya (वाजपेयः)|Vajapeya]], सोमयागः ॥ [[Somayaga (सोमयागः)|Somayaga]] etc. Krishna Yajurveda is considered older than the Shukla Yajurveda.<ref name=":12222" />

Whether Krishna or Shukla, both the shakhas of Yajurveda deal primarily with the कर्मकाण्डः ॥ karmakanda and are also called यज्ञकाण्डः ॥ yajnakanda<ref name=":02222" />. All the shakha texts deal with detailed descriptions of श्रौतयज्ञाः ॥ Shrauta yajnas like राजसूयः ॥ [[Rajasuya]], वाजपेयः ॥ Vajapeya, सोमयागः ॥ Somayaga etc. Krishna Yajurveda is considered older than the Shukla Yajurveda.<ref name=":12222" />

It may be noted that while in Rigveda the text is organized according to rishis as mantra drastas, in Yajurveda the text is given according to the yajnas. It is a compilation of ritual offering formulas that were said by a priest while a यजमानः ॥ 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 सामवेदः ॥ 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 text is given according to the yajnas. It is a compilation of ritual offering formulas that were said by a priest while a यजमानः ॥ 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 सामवेदः ॥ 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 yajna, it includes the largest collection of primary Upanishads, influential to various schools of Hindu philosophy.

==सामवेदः || Samaveda==

==सामवेदः || Samaveda==

===व्युत्पत्तिः ॥ Etymology===

===व्युत्पत्तिः ॥ Etymology===

Jaimineeya Samhita (जैमिनीय-संहिता) of Samaveda is divided into Purva Archika (पूर्वाचिकः) containing 646 mantras and Uttara Archika (उत्तरार्चिकः) 1041, totaling to 1687 mantras.<ref name=":022322222" />

Jaimineeya Samhita (जैमिनीय-संहिता) of Samaveda is divided into Purva Archika (पूर्वाचिकः) containing 646 mantras and Uttara Archika (उत्तरार्चिकः) 1041, totaling to 1687 mantras.<ref name=":022322222" />

===शाखाः ॥ Shakhas===

===शाखाः ॥ Shakhas===

<blockquote>सहस्त्रवर्त्मा सामवेदः | sahastravartmā sāmavedaḥ | <ref name=":22322222" /><ref name=":22222" /></blockquote>According to महाभाष्यम् ॥ Mahabhashya, चरणव्यूहम् ॥ Charanavyuha, मुक्तिकोपनिषद् ॥ Muktikopanishad, अथर्वणपरिशिष्टम् ॥ Atharvana Parishisth, सर्वानुक्रमणिका ॥ Sarvanukramanika and महाभारतम् ॥ [[Mahabharata (महाभारत)|Mahabharata]], this Veda is said to have 1000 Shakhas. This aspect is also found to be mentioned in पुराण-s || [[Puranas]]. There is an interesting ancedote mentioned by Pt. Ramshankar Bhattacharya that सामशाखाः ॥ Samashakhas were destroyed by इन्द्रः ॥ Indra. Also a mention was made about the different सामशाखा ॥ Samashaka preachers being wiped out by a natural calamity (See Page 21 of Reference 1<ref name=":022322222" />). However, there are different versions of scholars about the loss of shakhas of Samaveda, but many opine that an innumerable number of Samaganas could have existed.

<blockquote>सहस्त्रवर्त्मा सामवेदः | sahastravartmā sāmavedaḥ | <ref name=":22322222" /><ref name=":22222" /></blockquote>According to महाभाष्यम् ॥ Mahabhashya, चरणव्यूहम् ॥ Charanavyuha, मुक्तिकोपनिषद् ॥ Muktikopanishad, अथर्वणपरिशिष्टम् ॥ Atharvana Parishisth, सर्वानुक्रमणिका ॥ Sarvanukramanika and महाभारतम् ॥ [[Mahabharata (महाभारत)|Mahabharata]], this Veda is said to have 1000 Shakhas. This aspect is also found to be mentioned in पुराण-s || [[Puranas (पुराणानि)|Puranas]]. There is an interesting ancedote mentioned by Pt. Ramshankar Bhattacharya that सामशाखाः ॥ Samashakhas were destroyed by इन्द्रः ॥ Indra. Also a mention was made about the different सामशाखा ॥ Samashaka preachers being wiped out by a natural calamity (See Page 21 of Reference 1<ref name=":022322222" />). However, there are different versions of scholars about the loss of shakhas of Samaveda, but many opine that an innumerable number of Samaganas could have existed.

Some Samaganas that have found a mention in other texts include - बृहत् रथन्तर, वैराज, ज्येष्ठ, रैवत among others that are definitely more than 1000 which may be the reason why the word "सहस्त्र" or thousand may be justified.<ref name=":022322222" /> Some shakhas of Samaveda that were mentioned in few ancient texts are

Some Samaganas that have found a mention in other texts include - बृहत् रथन्तर, वैराज, ज्येष्ठ, रैवत among others that are definitely more than 1000 which may be the reason why the word "सहस्त्र" or thousand may be justified.<ref name=":022322222" /> Some shakhas of Samaveda that were mentioned in few ancient texts are

Kauthuma (कौथुम) is the widely followed shakha, mainly by Nagara brahmins of Gujarat, while Ranayaniya is seen among the people of Maharashtra and Jaiminiya shakha is seen in Tamilnadu.

Kauthuma (कौथुम) is the widely followed shakha, mainly by Nagara brahmins of Gujarat, while Ranayaniya is seen among the people of Maharashtra and Jaiminiya shakha is seen in Tamilnadu.

===विषयम् || Vishayam (Content)===

===विषयम् || Vishayam (Content)===

The Samaveda is compiled exclusively for ritual application, for its verses are all meant to be chanted at the ceremonies of the Soma-sacrifice and procedures derived from it. The Samaveda is, therefore, specially intended for the ''Udgatr'' priest.

The Samaveda is compiled exclusively for ritual application, for its verses are all meant to be chanted at the ceremonies of the Soma-yajna and procedures derived from it. The Samaveda is, therefore, specially intended for the ''Udgatr'' priest.

The special virtue of Samaveda is that although its mantras are from the Rigveda, they are set to music which is greatly conductive to the spiritual evolution of a human being and to qualify oneself for receiving the grace of the devatas.

The special virtue of Samaveda is that although its mantras are from the Rigveda, they are set to music which is greatly conductive to the adhyatmik evolution of a human being and to qualify oneself for receiving the grace of the devatas.

Sri Krishna says in श्रीमद् भगवद्गीता ॥ Shrimad Bhagavadgita (Ch.10 Verse 22) <blockquote>वेदानां सामवेदोस्मि । vedānāṃ sāmavedosmi ।</blockquote>Meaning : Among the Vedas, I am the Samaveda.  

Sri Krishna says in श्रीमद् भगवद्गीता ॥ Shrimad Bhagavadgita (Ch.10 Verse 22) <blockquote>वेदानां सामवेदोस्मि । vedānāṃ sāmavedosmi ।</blockquote>Meaning : Among the Vedas, I am the Samaveda.  

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

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

ब्राह्मण-s || Brahmanas, आरण्यक-s || Aranyakas and उपनिषद्-s || Upanishads affiliated to this Samhita are<ref name=":22222" />

ब्राह्मण-s || Brahmanas, आरण्यक-s || Aranyakas and उपनिषद्-s || Upanishads affiliated to this Samhita are<ref name=":22222" />

#ताण्ड्य-महाब्राह्मणम् ॥ Tandya Maha Brahmana, the biggest and most important. The other seven ब्राह्मण-s || Brahmanas namely षड्विंशब्राह्मणम् ॥ Shadvimshabrahmana, आर्षेयब्राह्मणम् ॥ Arsheyabrahmana, समविधानब्राह्मणम् ॥ Samavidhanabrahmana, देवताध्यायब्राह्मणम् ॥ Devatadhyayabrahmana,छान्दोग्य-उपनिषद्-ब्राह्मणम् ॥ Chanddogyopanishad-brahmana, वंशब्राह्मणम् ॥ Vamshabrahmana and संहितोपनिषद्-ब्राह्मणम् ॥ Samhitopanishadbrahmana.

#ताण्ड्य-महाब्राह्मणम् ॥ Tandya Maha Brahmana, the biggest and most important. The other seven ब्राह्मण-s || Brahmanas namely षड्विंशब्राह्मणम् ॥ Shadvimshabrahmana, आर्षेयब्राह्मणम् ॥ Arsheyabrahmana, सामविधानब्राह्मणम् ॥ Samavidhanabrahmana, देवताध्यायब्राह्मणम् ॥ Devatadhyayabrahmana,छान्दोग्य-उपनिषद्-ब्राह्मणम् ॥ Chanddogyopanishad-brahmana, वंशब्राह्मणम् ॥ Vamshabrahmana and संहितोपनिषद्-ब्राह्मणम् ॥ Samhitopanishadbrahmana.

#One आरण्यकम् ॥ Aranyaka of this संहिता ॥ Samhita is available which is called तलवकार ॥ Talavakara or जैमिनीय-आरण्यकम् ॥ Jaiminiya Aranyaka.

#One आरण्यकम् ॥ Aranyaka of this संहिता ॥ Samhita is available which is called तलवकार ॥ Talavakara or जैमिनीय-आरण्यकम् ॥ Jaiminiya Aranyaka.

#छान्दोग्य-उपनिषद् ॥ Chandogya Upanishad

#छान्दोग्य-उपनिषद् ॥ Chandogya Upanishad

Other names of this Veda include ब्रह्मवेदः ॥ Brahmaveda, क्षत्रवेदः ॥ Kshtraveda (as it contains a information about राजनीतिः ॥ rajaneeti or statecraft and administration for kings), भिषग्वेदः ॥ Bhishagveda (as it contains information about diseases and their cure), अङ्गीरोवेदः ॥ Angiroveda and अथर्वाङ्गीरोवेदः ॥ Atharvangiroveda.<ref name=":022">Pt. Sri Rishiram Regmi. Article : ''[http://vedicheritage.gov.in/pdf/ved_vedang_gp_17.pdf Atharvaved ka sankshipth parichay]'' available at Vedic Heritage Portal</ref><ref>''[https://ia800209.us.archive.org/22/items/atharvavedasamhi014565mbp/atharvavedasamhi014565mbp.pdf Atharva Veda Samhita]'' (Telugu) Tirupati : Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam</ref> It is called as ब्रह्मवेदः ॥ Brahmaveda due to the following 3 reasons<ref name=":022" />

Other names of this Veda include ब्रह्मवेदः ॥ Brahmaveda, क्षत्रवेदः ॥ Kshtraveda (as it contains a information about राजनीतिः ॥ rajaneeti or statecraft and administration for kings), भिषग्वेदः ॥ Bhishagveda (as it contains information about diseases and their cure), अङ्गीरोवेदः ॥ Angiroveda and अथर्वाङ्गीरोवेदः ॥ Atharvangiroveda.<ref name=":022">Pt. Sri Rishiram Regmi. Article : ''[http://vedicheritage.gov.in/pdf/ved_vedang_gp_17.pdf Atharvaved ka sankshipth parichay]'' available at Vedic Heritage Portal</ref><ref>''[https://ia800209.us.archive.org/22/items/atharvavedasamhi014565mbp/atharvavedasamhi014565mbp.pdf Atharva Veda Samhita]'' (Telugu) Tirupati : Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam</ref> It is called as ब्रह्मवेदः ॥ Brahmaveda due to the following 3 reasons<ref name=":022" />

#In यज्ञकर्माणि ॥ Yajna karmas, ब्रह्मा ॥ [[Brahma (अथर्ववेद-होता)|Brahma]] is the ऋत्विक् ॥ [[Rtvik (ऋत्विक्)|Rtvik]] who oversees the यज्ञः ॥ yajna.

#In यज्ञकर्माणि ॥ Yajna karmas, ब्रह्मा ॥ [[Brahma (ब्रह्मा)|Brahma]] is the ऋत्विक् ॥ [[Rtvik (ऋत्विक्)|Rtvik]] who oversees the यज्ञः ॥ yajna.

#Contains the knowledge of ब्रह्मन् ॥ Brahman

#Contains the knowledge of ब्रह्मन् ॥ Brahman

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

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

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

===ब्राह्मणानि || Brahmanas===

===ब्राह्मणानि || Brahmanas===

Apastamba defines [[Brahmana (ब्राह्मणम्)|Brahmana (ब्राह्मण)]] as<blockquote>‘कर्मचोदना ब्राह्मणानि || karmacodanā brāhmaṇāni’ (Apas. Shrau. Sutr. 34 and 35)</blockquote>Meaning: Brahmanas are injunctions for the performance of sacrificial rites.

Apastamba defines [[Brahmana (ब्राह्मणम्)|Brahmana (ब्राह्मण)]] as<blockquote>‘कर्मचोदना ब्राह्मणानि || karmacodanā brāhmaṇāni’ (Apas. Shrau. Sutr. 34 and 35)</blockquote>Meaning: Brahmanas are injunctions for the performance of yajnika rites.

Some believe that what are not mantras are brahmanas (जैमिनीयपूर्वमीमांसा ॥ Jaimineeya Purvamimamsa 2.1.33)

Some believe that what are not mantras are brahmanas (जैमिनीयपूर्वमीमांसा ॥ Jaimineeya Purvamimamsa 2.1.33)

Each of the Brahmanas is associated with one of the Samhitas or its recensions. The Brahmanas may either form separate texts or can be partly integrated into the text of the Samhitas. They may also include the आरण्यक-s || Aranyakas and उपनिषद्-s || Upanishads. The substance of the Brahmana text varies with each Veda.

Each of the Brahmanas is associated with one of the Samhitas or its recensions. The Brahmanas may either form separate texts or can be partly integrated into the text of the Samhitas. They may also include the आरण्यक-s || Aranyakas and उपनिषद्-s || Upanishads. The substance of the Brahmana text varies with each Veda.

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-s || Grhasthas (the householders), those belonging to the second stage in life.

This portion of a Veda guides people in the performance of Vedic Karmas or yajnika 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-s || Grhasthas (the householders), those belonging to the second stage in life.

===आरण्यकानि || Aranyakas===

===आरण्यकानि || Aranyakas===

आरण्यक-s || Aranyakas, "wilderness texts" or "forest treatisies" :<blockquote>अरण्येऽधीयूरान् || araṇye'dhīyūrān ||</blockquote>Meaning: Texts to be studied in forests

आरण्यक-s || Aranyakas, "wilderness texts" or "forest treatisies" :<blockquote>अरण्येऽधीयूरान् || araṇye'dhīyūrān ||</blockquote>Meaning: Texts to be studied in forests

This text is unavailable (as for अथर्वणवेदः ॥ Atharvanaveda) or found as the last part of the ब्रामणानि ॥ Brahmanas, or are completely separated from the ब्राह्मणानि ॥ Brahmanas. For example, the last काण्ड ॥ kanda of शतपथ-ब्राह्मणम् ॥ Shatapata Brahmana is आरण्यकम् ॥ Aranyaka for शुक्लयजुर्वेदः ॥ Shukla Yajurveda, whereas in कृष्णयजुर्वेदः ॥ Krishna Yajurveda, the तैत्तिरीय-ब्राह्मणम् ॥ Taittiriya Brahmana and आरण्यकम् ॥ Aranyaka are completely separate.<ref name=":222" />

This text is unavailable (as for अथर्वणवेदः ॥ Atharvanaveda) or found as the last part of the ब्रामणानि ॥ Brahmanas, or are completely separated from the ब्राह्मणानि ॥ Brahmanas. For example, the last काण्ड ॥ kanda of शतपथ-ब्राह्मणम् ॥ Shatapata Brahmana is आरण्यकम् ॥ Aranyaka for शुक्लयजुर्वेदः ॥ Shukla Yajurveda, whereas in कृष्णयजुर्वेदः ॥ Krishna Yajurveda, the तैत्तिरीय-ब्राह्मणम् ॥ Taittiriya Brahmana and आरण्यकम् ॥ Aranyaka are completely separate.<ref name=":222" />

आरण्यक-s || Aranyakas, however, neither are homogeneous in content nor in structure. They are a combination of instructions and ideas, and some include chapters of उपनिषद्-s || Upanishads within them. Two theories have been proposed on the origin of the word आरण्यक ॥ Aranyaka. One theory holds that these texts were meant to be studied in a forest while the other holds that the name came from these being the manuals of allegorical interpretation of sacrifices, for those in वानप्रस्थः || Vanaprastha (retired, forest-dwelling) stage of their life, according to the historic age-based आश्रम ॥ Ashrama system of human life.

आरण्यक-s || Aranyakas, however, neither are homogeneous in content nor in structure. They are a combination of instructions and ideas, and some include chapters of उपनिषद्-s || Upanishads within them. Two theories have been proposed on the origin of the word आरण्यक ॥ Aranyaka. One theory holds that these texts were meant to be studied in a forest while the other holds that the name came from these being the manuals of allegorical interpretation of yajnika, for those in वानप्रस्थः || Vanaprastha (retired, forest-dwelling) stage of their life, according to the historic age-based आश्रम ॥ Ashrama system of human life.

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 यज्ञ-s || Yajnas and sacrifices at the mental level. For example: बृहदारण्यक-उपनिषद् ॥ Brhadaranyaka Upanishad starts with such analytical mental performance of अश्वमेधयज्ञः ॥ Ashwamedha Yajna. The Aranyakas are intended for the Vanaprasthas or people who prepare themselves for the last stage in life i.e. सन्यासः ॥ 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 yajnika rites. It is a process of performing यज्ञ-s || Yajnas and sacrifices at the mental level. For example: बृहदारण्यक-उपनिषद् ॥ Brhadaranyaka Upanishad starts with such analytical mental performance of अश्वमेधयज्ञः ॥ Ashwamedha Yajna. The Aranyakas are intended for the Vanaprasthas or people who prepare themselves for the last stage in life i.e. सन्यासः ॥ Sanyasa. Aranyakas form the transition link between the ritual of the Brahmanas and the philosophy of the Upanishads.

===उपनिषदः || Upanishads===

===उपनिषदः || Upanishads===

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

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

श्रीशङ्कराचार्यः ॥ Sri Shankaracharya was the earliest commentator on the Upanishads. He chose only 10 Upanishads for his commentaries<ref name=":222" />. According to some scholars, he commented upon 11 Upanishads. He refers to 4 more Upanishads in his commentary on ब्रह्मसूत्रम् ॥ Brahmasutra namely श्वेताश्वतर-उपनिषद् ॥ Shvetashvatara  Upanishad, कौषीतकी उपनिषद् ॥ Kousitaki Upanishad, जाबाल-उपनिषद् ॥ Jabala Upanishad, महानारायण-उपनिषद् ॥ Mahanarayana Upanishad, and पैङ्गल-उपनिषद् ॥ Paingala Upanishad.

श्रीशङ्कराचार्यः ॥ Sri Shankaracharya was the earliest commentator on the Upanishads. He chose only 10 Upanishads for his commentaries<ref name=":222" />. According to some scholars, he commented upon 11 Upanishads. He refers to 4 more Upanishads in his commentary on ब्रह्मसूत्रम् ॥ Brahmasutra namely श्वेताश्वतर-उपनिषद् ॥ Shvetashvatara  Upanishad, कौषीतकी उपनिषद् ॥ Kausitaki Upanishad, जाबाल-उपनिषद् ॥ Jabala Upanishad, महानारायण-उपनिषद् ॥ Mahanarayana Upanishad, and पैङ्गल-उपनिषद् ॥ Paingala Upanishad.

Considering the ones chosen by him for commenting as reference material and as the most ancient and authentic, they are termed as major or principal Upanishads. We may list them as follows:

Considering the ones chosen by him for commenting as reference material and as the most ancient and authentic, they are termed as major or principal Upanishads. We may list them as follows:

The Upanishads are the concluding portions of the Vedas which discuss philosophical issues both in prose and metrical forms. They are commonly referred to as वेदान्तः || Vedanta, variously interpreted to mean either the "last chapters, parts of the Vedas" or "the object, the highest purpose of the Veda". The concepts of ब्रह्मन् || Brahman (Ultimate Reality, परमात्मा ॥ Paramatma), आत्मन् || Atman (Soul, Self, जीवात्मा ॥ Jivatma) and liberation of soul (मुक्तिः ॥ Mukti/ मोक्षः ॥ Moksha) are central ideas in all the Upanishads and primarily focus on routes for obtaining ब्रह्मविद्या ॥ [[Brahmavidya (ब्रह्मविद्या)|Brahmavidya]] which on practice leads one to मुक्तिः ॥ Mukti. The Upanishads are the foundation of Hindu philosophical thought and its diverse traditions.<ref name=":222" />

The Upanishads are the concluding portions of the Vedas which discuss philosophical issues both in prose and metrical forms. They are commonly referred to as वेदान्तः || Vedanta, variously interpreted to mean either the "last chapters, parts of the Vedas" or "the object, the highest purpose of the Veda". The concepts of ब्रह्मन् || Brahman (Ultimate Reality, परमात्मा ॥ Paramatma), आत्मन् || Atman (Soul, Self, जीवात्मा ॥ Jivatma) and liberation of soul (मुक्तिः ॥ Mukti/ मोक्षः ॥ Moksha) are central ideas in all the Upanishads and primarily focus on routes for obtaining ब्रह्मविद्या ॥ [[Brahmavidya (ब्रह्मविद्या)|Brahmavidya]] which on practice leads one to मुक्तिः ॥ Mukti. The Upanishads are the foundation of Hindu philosophical thought and its diverse traditions.<ref name=":222" />

They are the essence of the Vedas containing their knowledge aspects along with explanation of कर्म-s || karmas (as in Upakosala's tending to fires in छान्दोग्य-उपनिषद् ॥ Chandogya Upanishad). The philosophy of the Upanishads occupies the highest pedestal in the spiritual knowledge. They speak about the identity of the Supreme Eternal Soul, the ब्रह्मन् ॥ Brahman, the individual soul, the आत्मन् ॥ Atman, their mutual relationship, the Universe (जगत् ॥ jagat) and man’s place in it. In short, they deal with जीवात्मा || Jivatma, परमात्मा || Paramatma, जगत् || Jagat, अविद्या ॥ Avidya, कर्मफलम् ॥ Karmaphalam, पुनर्जन्म ॥ Punarjanma and जगदीश्वरः || Jagadishvara.

They are the essence of the Vedas containing their knowledge aspects along with explanation of कर्म-s || karmas (as in Upakosala's tending to fires in छान्दोग्य-उपनिषद् ॥ Chandogya Upanishad). The philosophy of the Upanishads occupies the highest pedestal in the adhyatmik knowledge. They speak about the identity of the Supreme Eternal Soul, the ब्रह्मन् ॥ [[Brahman (ब्रह्मन्)|Brahman]], the individual soul, the आत्मन् ॥ [[Atman (आत्मन्)|Atman]], their mutual relationship, the Universe (जगत् ॥ jagat) and man’s place in it. In short, they deal with जीवात्मा || Jivatma, परमात्मा || Paramatma, जगत् || Jagat, अविद्या ॥ Avidya, कर्मफलम् ॥ Karmaphalam, पुनर्जन्म ॥ Punarjanma and जगदीश्वरः || Jagadishvara.

आरण्यक-s || Aranyakas are sometimes identified as कर्मकाण्ड ॥ karma-kanda (ritualistic section), while the Upanishads are identified as ज्ञानकाण्ड ॥ jnana-kanda (spirituality section). In an alternate classification, the early part of Vedas are called संहिताः ॥ Samhitas and the commentary are called the ब्राह्मण-s || Brahmanas which together are identified as the ceremonial कर्मकाण्डः ॥ karma-kanda, while आरण्यक-s || Aranyakas and उपनिषद्-s || Upanishads are together referred to as the ज्ञानकाण्डः ॥ jnana-kanda.

आरण्यक-s || Aranyakas are sometimes identified as कर्मकाण्ड ॥ karma-kanda (ritualistic section), while the Upanishads are identified as ज्ञानकाण्ड ॥ jnana-kanda (adhyatmikity section). In an alternate classification, the early part of Vedas are called संहिताः ॥ Samhitas and the commentary are called the ब्राह्मण-s || Brahmanas which together are identified as the ceremonial कर्मकाण्डः ॥ karma-kanda, while आरण्यक-s || Aranyakas and उपनिषद्-s || Upanishads are together referred to as the ज्ञानकाण्डः ॥ jnana-kanda.

==References==

==References==

<references />

<references />

[[Category:Vedas]]

[[Category:Vedas]]