Atharvaveda ancillary literature (Study)
by B. R. Modak | 1959 | 179,855 words
The essay studies the ancillary literature of the Atharva-Veda with special reference to the Parisistas. It does so by understanding the socio-cultural and philosophical aspects of ancient Indian life. The Atharvaveda addresses encompasses all practical aspects of life from health and prosperity to rituals and sorcery. This thesis systematically ex...
Part 1.18 - The Purva Asadha (Sagitarii)
[Full title: The Lore of the Constellations (18) The Purva Asadha (Sagitarii)]
The Purva Asadha is the eighteenth constellation consisting of four stars. It belongs to the seer Haritayajna and is presided over by Apah. The Apah (waters) are released by Parjanya and they bring about an allround prosperity The Apah belong to Varuna and are prayed to in the company of the Purva Asadha for good will (1.40.3). People like the Kambojas, Kalamrgas, Krandas and Ucchusmas are affected by this constellation (1.7.10). The Brhatsamhita by Varahamihira (15.18) states that soft things, traders on the sea-route, people possessed of the wealth of truth and purity, those who build bridges, those who live on water, and fruits and flowers produced in water are under the sway of this constellation belonging to Apah. It is stated that the sickness contracted under the Purva Agadha lasts for nineteen nights (1.33.4). A king should observe a vow under the Asadhas after being initiated for three nights (1.10.6). The gracious lady, who with a new garment on, takes a bath under this constellation with water to which gold is added, becomes loved by her husband and enjoys pleasures (1.44.8). Under the Purva Asadha 'udamantha' (a kind of peeled grain) should be given away (1.49.7). (156) At Taittiriya Brahmana III.1.2.3, the waters that are in the atmosphere and on the earth, in the wells, ponds, rivers and oceans are prayed to for welfare.