Which is the Oldest Veda?
By BYJU'S Exam Prep
Updated on: November 9th, 2023
The oldest veda is Rigveda. The Rigveda is the oldest known Vedic Sanskrit text. Its early layers are among the oldest extant texts in any Indo-European language. Rigveda is known for hymns in praise of God. It is the oldest and biggest of all the four Vedas.
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Rigveda: The Oldest Veda
The Rigveda is the oldest compilation of human wisdom. This Samhita (Collection) is unique. It is not a book but a compilation composed of several books that can be individually distinguished. The Rigveda represents the earliest sacred book of India. All the features of Classical Sanskrit poetry can be traced to Rigveda. The present form of this Samhita indicates that the collection is not a single word but consists of older and later elements.
- Rigveda has been the centre of attention for Western scholars such as Max Müller.
- It contains 10 mandalas and mentions 33 Goddesses and Gods.
- In Rigveda, 10580 hymns have been composed.
- Various indications of language, style, and ideas prove this point.
- Different hymns of this Samhita were composed long before they were systematically arranged.
Being a compilation of different stages, there is something that stamps the Rigveda with an individuality of its own. It is much more natural in character and form than other Samhitas.
Summary:
Which is the Oldest Veda?
Rigveda is the oldest veda. It is the oldest known Vedic Sanskrit text. Its early layers are among the oldest extant texts in any Indo-European language. It is the oldest compilation produced to educate and improve the wisdom of human beings.
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