Atharvaveda
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
The fourth Veda, with hymns and prayers for health, long life, protection, marriage, farming and the well-being of the community.
| Tradition | Hindu (Vedic) |
|---|---|
| Type | Veda |
| Language | Vedic Sanskrit |
| Period | c. 1200–900 BCE (scholarly estimate) |
| Composed or compiled by | Traditionally associated with the rishis Atharvan and Angiras |
What it contains
- Two recensions survive: Shaunaka and Paippalada.
- Hymns for healing illness, protection from harm and long life.
- Prayers for marriage, home, cattle and good harvests.
- The Prithvi Sukta (Bhumi Sukta), a hymn to the Earth as mother.
- Associated Upanishads include the Mundaka, Mandukya and Prashna.
Significance
The Atharvaveda gives a picture of everyday life and concerns in the Vedic age, and is traditionally linked with the roots of Ayurveda.