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However, due to the different methods adopted in grouping or classifying, the number of suktas given by various scholars varies from 598 to 759. This gives us 6,077 mantras in 736 suktas spread over 20 kāṇḍas in 4 prapāṭhakas. This Veda is divided into four ‘prapāthakas,’ comprising 20 ‘kāṇḍas.’ Each kāṇḍa is again sub-divided into ‘suktas’ and these suktas, into ‘mantras.’ The details are as follows : Of these, only Śaunaka is available in a complete form. But, Vedic chronology is a huge subject in which it is difficult to fix the periods precisely.įrom the ancient times, nine śākhās or branches of the Atharvaveda (Samhitā) are known to have existed. Vaidya assign it the period 3000 to 2500 B.
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For the same reasons, it is opined that this Veda is chronologically posterior to the other three Vedas. It's sheer popularity might have forced the leaders of the society to admit it as the fourth Veda and give its priests also an honorable place in the sacrifices. It was perhaps considered as a ‘scripture of the masses,’ not fit for the admission into the ‘elite-group’. Hence some scholars believe that this work was not admitted into the comity of Vedic literature for a long time. The literary style is more sophisticated. Major portion of this Veda is concerned with the following :Ītharvaveda has high philosophical ideas similar to the thought pattern of the Upaniṣads. The Atharvaveda has some special features because of which it stands a little apart from the other three Vedas, especially the Rigveda.
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Hence this Veda was named accordingly after him.
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It has cures for insect-related diseases, as well as procedures to enhance longevity of one’s life, ward off death, means for liberation, and myriad procedures to enhance welfare of humanity. It has details on economics, politics, importance of nation, national language, etc. It has procedures for curing very deep-seated ailments. It encompasses many fields of knowledge, including geography, astronomy, herbs, Ayurveda, and many more sciences. It has mantras for curing various ailments, both bodily and mental, as well as for peace of mind. It has invocations and praises to the Gods. Atharva Veda is also referred to as ‘Brahma Veda’.