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Human Ecology in the...
Human Ecology in the Vedas
by: Marta VannucciThis book analyses Vedic writings to highlight the ancient rsis perceptions of the Universe, Nature, and cause-effect relationships. It discusses selected Rgvedic hymns and explores important aspects of Indra and Varuna.
₹1,080.00
ISBN: 9788124601150
Year Of Publication: 1999
Edition: 1st
Pages : xiv, 344
Bibliographic Details : Glossary; Bibliography; Index
Language : English
Binding : Hardcover
Publisher: D.K. Printworld Pvt. Ltd.
Size: 23 cm.
Weight: 650
Directing his view towards the whole universe holistically, amazingly, the Rigvedic man as this study shows was awakened to the cosmic Law and Order (Rita); he saw how nothing: nature, environment, or the universe itself, was ever static; and how the orderly Energy was at the root of all changes and movements. Instinctively, he not only bowed down to the Order that reigns supreme, but also tried to attune himself, his behaviour, and his everyday activity to the eternal laws of the universe. Which, says the author, he recognized as his dharma. A sequel to her earlier, well-received title: Ecological Readings in the Veda, Dr. Marta Vannuccis this book sets out fresh, insightful analyses of the Vedic writings to highlight the ancient rishis perceptions of the Universe, Nature, and cause-effect relationships; and how, millennia ago, these sages came to revere, even adore, Nature in its different manifestations and, wittingly or unwittingly, evolve an environmentally friendly culture. In support of her findings, the author also analyses a few selected hymns from the Rigveda, using a biological key to decode these songs. Additionally, she also explores some important aspects of two Vedic gods: Indra and Varuna, who respectively represent the material and immaterial reality. Highly relevant appendices apart, the book includes a comprehensive glossary of Sanskrit/non-English words and numerous bibliographic references.
Preface
Abbreviations
Introduction
Part I
1. The Problem and the Hypotheses
2. The Quest for Sources
3. The Concept of God
4. Ecological Aspects
Traditional Way of Life
Communication of Knowledge
Material Culture
Non-Material Culture
Participation of Man in Nature
Fire and Heat
Food and Medicines
Fuel
Rivers
Forest
Climate
Time Measurement
Ecology and Biological Cycles
Plants
Water, Fire and Life
Air and Akasha
Practicalities
5. Lord Agni and Fire
Common Fire
Lord Agni-God
6. Lord Savitri, Life and Hope
7. Conclusion : Contemporary and Vedic Expression of Ecology
Part II
Introduction
1. Manduka, the Frogs Riv, VII; 103 Rshi Vasishtha Metres: Trishtup; Anushtup
Translation
Commentaries
Frogs
Vishnu
Frogs Elsewhere in the Vedas
The Atiratra Sacrifice
Frogs in the Avesta
Frogs in other Cultures
Conclusion
2. The Wedding of Surya Riv. X; 85 : Rishi Manyu. Metres: Anushtup; Trishtup; Jagati; Urobrihati
Introduction
Translation
Commentaries
Conclusion
3. Aranyani, The Lady of the Forest Riv. X; 146 : Rishi Devamuni. Metre; Anushtup
Introduction
Sanskrit Text
Translation
Commentaries
Forest, Trees, Plants Elsewhere in the Vedas
Conclusion
4. Indra and Varuna, Material and Immaterial Reality
Words
The Rigvedic Figures Indra and Varuna
Conclusion
Appendix I: The Carpenter and Pythagoras Theorem
Appendix II: On the Identity of the Soma Plant
Glossary
Bibliography
Index
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