The book deals with variety of concepts, images and beliefs in the Vedic tradition, revealed through Vedic hymns and rituals. Several images and symbols, at times, are influenced by folk-beliefs at that period, some of which are current even today. The complex image of 'Aksara' not only having a rain-symbolism but also getting a dimension of proto-philosophy, that of the Son-husband current even today, that of the crying words not restricted only to the Vedic literature, the images centering round Soma as a ritual-drink, the 'eye' of Prajapati, the problematic Sasarpari, divinity of the banners, Vana though a war-trumpet changing into ritual musical instrument, the unique birth of Vasistha and Agastya from a jar, the words 'Dvibarhas' and 'siprin' indicative of power and status, the riddle of the black antelope, dance of Indra and Chaya giving a glimpse of ancient war-dance - these and many more, delvings in the Vedic hymns and rituals display a treasure of myriad images. |
