Hinduism

Aranyak text are found in the last of Brahaman literature and these text have been written by writer of Brahaman literatures by same rishis. Infact aranyak text are explanations to Gyan Margs (Knowledge Patthway) as guided by Sanhitas while explanation to sacrificial rituals is found in Brahaman literatures.

Aranyak text were written in the post period of composition of vedic texts according to many historians all aranyaks were written between 800 BC-600 BC.

Aranyak word has been point from the sanskrit word the Aranya which means forest. Thus Aranyak are these text which were written on peaceful environment in the forest. Therefore its study and thinking should be done in the peaceful environment in the forest.

Aranyank text were associated with the popular aashram system of aryan. these text were written for the persons suffering through vanprasth ashram. Who used to recide in isolated way in the rorest leaving there family. They used to spend there time and life in teaching and study.

Prabably questions were began to arise regarding utility of vedic yagays of 8th century. Vanprasth people analysed these yagayas and stated them reght throught he medium of these aranyakas.

Rigvedas sanlhita has two Brahamanas which are found with these names in the end of Aitreya and Kaushiki. Yagurveda associated three arnayakas are – Brihadaranyak, Taitryae – Aranyak and Maitraiyhe aranyak, like wise samvida also has two aranayaks – Gemini and Chchandog were as Athar-vavedas has none aranyak associated with it.

These text were written in poetry style. the language and content are like the language and containts of its associated Brahaman text. The most important aranyak, Aitraye arnyank is considered as most significant which was written by Mahidas aitraye. Few scholars considered aranyakas as appendix to Brahaman text.

In arnayak text, logical explanation has been made to the symbols and titles mentioned in Sanhitas. In therse more imphasis has been given on the subjects like force, Brahama Vidya (Education) and Mysticism.

Early proof of philosphical discussion of India could be seen in these aranyakas description have been made on yoga. vidya and darshan at several places in these. The emphasis has been given on meditation than wordly life.

According to many historians vedic rituals were increased and became more dominant on post period of vedas. Yagya had became very expansive and priests had occupied had important role in common life as such many more questions are were asked regarding yagyas and other practices.

The most important features of aranyak text is spiritual thinking. Thoughts of high standards related with soul Rebirth, meditation, world, Brahama in it. Probably common people was eager to know about these.

Brihadarynayak is the largest of all aranyakas discussion had been made on Brahama, Soul and god etc. in it Taitrayea aranyak is considered the oldest which is a part of taitraye Brahaman.

Aranyak text could be seen as connecting link between early religious of aryans and local religion Rigvedic religion was absolutely based on utility and practical results. it has been recognised in aranyakas however imphasis is put on sacrifice and meditation.

The largest Vedic text is Satpath Brahman after Rigveda in the whole Vedic literarures. It contains elaborate description on Vedic religion, rituals, then customs, coming & expansion of Aryans, then political system etc. it is considered as an Eneyelopaedic. Text due to adequate amount of informations & its vivid desciptions. Satpath Brahman is considerd as most systematic & organised of all brahmical texts.

Traditionally, 100 chapters are believed to be in it and as such it is called Shatpath Brahman. It is associated with Madhyamdivi & Karma-both branches of shukla Yajurveda. it has been written in prise style & Rishi Yagyavakya is considered as its visionary.

The Madhyandivi branch of it has 100 chapters divided into 7624 shlokas. It has been compiled in 14 books. In Shatpath Brahman of Karma branch, there is four more chapters (as such, 104 chapters) then that of mandhyandivi branch. it consists of 6806 sections (Khandikayen) compiled in 17 books. In Both of the branches, a successive order & explanation of mantras of Yajurveda.

Shatpath Brahman is almost ancient one of all available Brahmanical texts. The period between 8th-7th century B.C. is beleived to be its time of composition. Vrihadaranyak Upnishad is the last part of at which was written in about 7th century B.C.

Shatpath Brahman focusses on almost every aspects associated with human life. it discusses regarding agriculture, origin of universe, different kinds of rituals, philosophical ideologies, then janpad system etc. in at. it is also an important source of informations of many stories associated with Mahabharata. Thats is why it is considered as cultural eneyclopaedic text.

Lord Vishnu has been regarded as the supreme God in this Brahman. This Brahmana consists of detailed explanations on kinds of yogyas, materiales related to Yagyas, Yagya-methods, & many rituals associated with them. it also tells about Arjuns & the significance of Yagyas in the life of Arjuns in that period of time.

It also mentions for the first time of about rebirth. Peoples were aware of cycle of life education cremation methods & construction of crematory over skeletous buried in soil.

It also throws light on the then political systems. it writes about the then existing ten Janapads –

Gandhar (Capital Taxila, on both sides of river sindhus)

Kaikeya (On both side of Jhelun)

Madra (both sides of river chenab)

Kushi Nagar (Uttranchal)

Matsya (near jaipur, both sides of saraswati river)

Kuru (Capital-Hastinapur)

Paanchal (region of Ruhelkhand)

Awadh (Capital-saket)

Kashi and Mithila (Janakpur)

‘Ratnin institution’ was in vogue to help the king in administrative affairs. This Brahman mentions about 12 Rations that time –

1.   Senani

2.   Raj Mahishi

3.   Muvraaj

4.   Purohit

5.   Kshata          

6.   Gramni

7.   Sangrahitri

8.   Bhagdugh    

9.   Akshavaals

10. Yut                             

11. Govikartan                

12. Paalagal

The differences were not arisen between the king & his pupils in this period.

It has been described in Shatpath Brahman that Agni & Brihaspati enters into the body of the king at the time of his coronation (rajjabhishek). When he performs Ashwamegha & Vaagpeya yagya, he attains Godly-form and, this, effort has been made for glorification of the king atain to God.

It also throws light on ‘Dev Mandal’, the then most recognised institution. While mentioning about God-demon battle it has been said that four groups of Gods had participated in it. Indra led Maruts, Agni leds Vaarus, Soma led Rudras & Varuna was the leader of Adityas. They all regarded Indra as their combined leader & used to fight in battle in accordance with his instructions.

Gegraphically, this Brahmanical text is of due significance. It provides informations regarding movement of Aryans towards east. It contains the story of ‘Madhav. Videh’. Madhav-Videh had mined to east with his teacher Gautam Rishi. Agni had come out of month of Videh as soon as he heart the word. Ghee near sadanira river (Gandale river). Thus, the region lying between Sadanira river & saraswati river became the land area inhabited by Aryans.

Literary, Shatpathd Brahman is also considered of much importance. All the stories that is found in Mahabharate this Satpath Brahman is the basic source of all. it finds mention of stories life jalplavaan lukatha (the story of over flood), s tory of Dushyanta-shakuntala, love stories of Puru-Vrvachi, Rama stories etc. it also mentions about story of ChyarVan rishi who was blessed with youthfulness by Ashwanikumarras. it also deeds with the God-demon battle in detail.

Scholars paid their attention towards Shatpath Brahman in 19th century. At this time, Julius Eggeling had translated Shatpath Brahman’s Madhyadin Branch in English language into 5 parts. W.E. calaud is credited for translating Kanva branch of Shatpath Brahman into English language. Presently, it has been already, translated into several languages in India. Its stories are quite popular among its readers while its several mantras are used during different kinds of rituals & their performances.

Explanation to the rituals of Vedic Sanhitas are found in Brahaman text. it also provide information about the successive development of vedic rituals. The issues which have been expressed through symbols in vedas. They have been elaboratly described in Bhahamanas.

The Brahaman word originates from the word Braham which means veda and in this meaning these text are called Brahamans in which vedic mantras have been explained. it also provide information that how one can get desires result by using these vedic mantras.

These text also has been written in Vedic Sanskrit. They are in prose style and related with laws. Many short stories and big stories have been used to provides logical explanations of laws.

The number of Brahamanas should have been in accordance with the branches of different vedas but presently only Brahamanas are available. Shadvish Brahaman is 26^th chapter of Panchvish Brahamans also and thus the total number of Brahamanas are remains seven.

Vedas and its associated Brahamanas can be mentioned as follows –

Among these Brahamanas, Taitraye Brahaman associated with Krishna Yajurveda is considered as oldest one. Whiel Gopath Brahaman is newestone. If size is considered than shatpath Brahaman of Yajurveda is considered biggest while gopath Brahaman stands smallest.

Brahaman text are most important than all vedic literature in view of these important religiously it contains detailed description regarding Rajsuya Yaga. Bajpeya Yaga, Ashwamegh yaga Purushmegh Yagya, Saumya yag etc. along with the methods for there practices.

Politically it also contains discussion on the then 10 janpand beside it also found mentions about Vedic kinngs like Parikshit, Janak etc.

Several literary text were written in latter years drawing inspiration from these Brahamn text. Many stories lide story of Dushyant Shakuntala, war between  gods and demon, end of world due to over flood etc. have been mentions for the first time in these Brahaman text.

Aitraye associated with Rigveda and also Kaushiki Brahamana were composed by Mahi Das aitraye and Kahod Kaushiki rishi respectivfely. Political system founds mentions in aitraye Brahaman and according to which som was elected the king.

Description has been made about only Som Yagya in aitraye Brahaman. While Kaushiki Brahaman contains mention of many other yagyas in detail.

Shatpath Brahaman written by Yagvalkya rishi is the most detailed text. In whole vedic literature after ragvida. It posses the stroy of videdh Madhav of east going of Aryans. It also informs that king used to had his lunch, sitting with his subjects at that time.

Taitraye Brahaman of Krishna Yajurveda finds mentions of the then political system. According to one of the story contained in it. Gods perfoemed Parjapati yaga who appointed his son Indra as king of all gods.

Tandya Rishi was exponent of Panchvish Brahaman of Samveda so it is also called tandya Brahaman. In size it is second largest Brahaman after Shatpath Brahaman containg 25 chapters it is also known as proudh Brahaman due to its subject seriousness. It also found first mention of Vratya yaga through which non Aryans where changed to Aryans.

Shadvish Brahaman is divided into six chapter containg 20-20 sub chapter in each chapter. It is also called Adhbhut Brahaman due to unexpected increase in yagya performance and rituals during this period.

Brahaman text have played significant role in religious development of India. All the different kinds of religious rituals of Hindu religion are completely based on these Brahamanas. Riotuals associated with birth, marriage, death etc. are firstly found in it which latter on continuously extanded.

Historically they have special importants Brahamanas are considered to be written between 1000 BC-600 BC and as such these are the important sources of information of that time.

‘Kusha’ is a holiest kind of grass which is used on different occasions in Hindu religion. The Brahmanas uses it on the occasion of every Vedic retuals. Followers of Vaishnav call also make use of it on several occassions. Traditionally, it is believed to be associated with holiness & also enhances the effect of Vedic in antras several times.

Kusha is also called ‘Dharbham’. It is found in almost every part of India. Its original scientific name is Eragnostis cyano suroiles. it is believed that this grass can not be cultivated on any land from however, if grows itself on the land fetils & suitable for its cultivation.

There are several relgious stories which are popular and associated with it. It has been said to be born from Brahma in few of them & also to be born of hairs of Lord Vishnu. according to another historical belief, when Sita was again going inside earth then, the Lord Rama jumped to pull her but could catch only few hairs of Sita. Later, these hairs took the form of Kusha.

An another belief, links it with ‘Samudra-Manthan’ and Amrit (Elixir). It is said that a great & fierce battle took place between Gods & demons as soon as Elixir part came out of ‘Samudra Manthan’. Taking benefit of this situation, jayant, a son of Indra ran away with this elixir pot and continued to wander hither-thither for 12 years. During these wandering days, jayant kept this. Amrit Khembh (Elixin Pot) at the four different places. The used to keep Amit Kumbh always on Kusha grasses. Today, Mahakumbha festival is organised on these four places in India.

In some of the researches, it has been addressed as an insulator to radiations and energy. Whereas it has been described as good conductor of sounds of different kinds. It is beleived that its use sentralises negative energy effect on human body while there is more effect of Vedic mantras on account of its use.

The waters of Kusha are used differently on different occassions of sacred religions practices & has symbolic significance. Normally, a ring made of Kusha leanes are put into ring finger of right hand before performing vgyas & religious rituals. On accassion of death related retuals (or cremation) single leaf ring is while on other religions rituals occassion, ring made of two leaves of Kusha are worn. On occassion of Pitripiya. Amavarya, Puja, three leaves ring is were while four leaves made ring are advised to wear in ring finger on the occassion of large Puja ceremony in temples.

Traditionally, it is believed that once used Kusha leaves made ring can be used second times provided it has been sacrified in due manner. but it can be repeately used only upto seventh times. On the contrary, same rings can not be used more tan once on occassion of unably Yogic & rituals practices or Pitri Puja, Pind-daan, creation or death etc.

There is classical methodoligoes for cutting of Kusha grasses. it cannot ever been cut. it is cut only on pratham tithi (!st day) of Krishna Paksha of Bhadra Maas with the user of Vedic mantras which is mentioned below.

Kusha is also used in another way on different religious occassions. The Gangajal (waters of never Ganga) is thrown on gods & lands where puja is to be performed & is called ‘Abhishek’ before performing Yagayas through bunch of Kusha grass leaves.

Kusha is used for prosperity fertility and family welfare. As such, it is used generally, in the worship of Lord Gansha, Lord Vishnu etc. while in worship of Lord Shiva, it is never used.

In several religious texts, Kusha grasses have been used as weapons. Saints had killed Raja Ben, the father of as weapons. Saints had killed Raja Ben, the father of Prithu with these Kusha leaves, similarly, Balraamjee had killed Romharshan rishi in Najmi Sharanga through Kusha leaves. Mother Sita, always used to keep Kusha leaves with her to keep Ravan aloof from her.

Kusha grass’s relation is linked with Rishi Vishvamitra & on this basis, he is called Vishwamitra. Ring made of Kusha leaves are called – ‘Pavitri’. Indeed, its use is considered holy & most essential on the occassion of religious rituals perfor mance in Hindu religion.

Diya made lighting pot (earthen lightning pot) has its own distinguished significance as symbols to be used on different occassions in hindu religion. It is considered essential to lighten this diya on the occasion of each & every religious westans & occassions. it is considered to be the presence of God and also as an index of properity, welfare, happiness & peace.

In general, diya marks light or knowledge. There, knowledge signiffres information about Godly elements. in hindu idology, knowledge is also considered as a strong medium for attainment of God, other than Bhakti & Karma (belief & action), & in this form, diya stands for the removal of innocent about worldly pleasures & to know about knowledge (facts) of Godly elements.

Traditional, diya is made of clay. As a fuel, pure Ghee & sometimes oil is also used. In this oil, a cotton thread is dipped & ignited. There all parts have spiritual meaning –

1)Diya pot - It marks human body and universe & also signifies the brittlenes of the world.

(2)Ghee - It is considered as food for deeities. Ghee has been regarded as food of fire in Satpath Brahman, also. One of the aspect of it is that it symbolises good & ideal thinking & spiritual knowledge.

(3) Fire - It has been considered as a medium of contact between God & organins in its other meaning, it stands for removing darkness of in necessary & expanding light of knowledge.

(4) Cotton (Fibre) - It serves as a connecting link between organs & the God firse.

Thus, a diya directly links human and a God. When a man preserves good thoughts & feelings for God then this diya takes these Good thoughts upto God. Clay lamp is regarded as the strongest medium of an interview with God.

In Christianity, a significant & holiest position has been given to Diya but in Hindu religion, it has comparitively been given much more significance. There is tradition in Hindu religion for lighting the diya in temples & at homes. On all the occassions of festivals, celebrations, wsorship. However, lighting of diya is regarded as a holy action in all the religious & courteous taken birth in India.

Diya is ignited on the occassion of Ganta, Karvachauth, deepawali etc, however they varies in their meaning & purpose. On the occassion of Karwachauth, the married women worships God witnessing this clay lamp. Whereas diya is lighted on festival of lights (deepawali) symbolishing happiness & enthusiasm.

In Hindu religious customs & traditions, diya is ignited to invite gods. It means good residence powers might come to the & negative powers may stay away from the home. As such, diya is ignited on occassion of every God worship. In India, an old tradition also exists of welcoming of guests with serving diya.

In India, diya is used also for other purposes. it is said that it should be enlighten in the houses where there is problem or difficulties or lack of could it & peace. it brings back the peace & comfort within few days.

Few scholars explain diya lighting secularly. As the lamp reflects light without discrimination to people on this sex, caste used, religion, colour, similarly people should live in the society with feelings of togetherness, uniformity fraternity. Although, on every Hindu religious ocassion wishes are made for welfare of all.

Although, the tradition of fire-worship, in India is very old. The first & supreme Ved, Rigveda is entirely dedicated to fire. Diya is the smallest form of fire while the largest form is the sun, itself.

Shankh belongs to animal phylem mollusca, whose hard outer shell is being used in various religious rituals in India from last 5000 years and more. Shanstambh word originates from Sanskrit language and it means sacred water pot even today Shankh used before and after each festival and ceremonies. All gods are worshiped with Shankh except Lord Shiva.

The Samudra manthan (Ocean Churning) which was done by gods and demon as per puranas, 14 gems were come out and Shankh was one of them. Thus religiously Shank is considered as brother of goddess Lakshmi and brother in law of Lord Vishnu. According to other belief Lord Vishnu had killed a demon names Panch Janaya and they were Shankh made of his bonhes.

Shankh have been classified on different basis eg. on the basis of Varna –

Likewise on the basis of mouth it is of two types-clock wise and anti clock wise. Clock wise shankh is considered as most sacred it is also divided into sub parts based on ling (sex). Male shankh-thick with rough surface and female shankh called shankhini-thin with smooth surface.

In skand puran several qualities have been mentioned about high quality shankh. The shankh of milk white colour, long neck and thick central part is clock wise shankh and when whistled the sound of ohm with echo effect comes out is the best quality, And have all the good features.

This puran contains description regarding place of binding them eg Fanch Janya Shankh is found in Dwarika region, Ant Vijay Shankh in somnath region, Manipushp in Rameshwaram, Paudu Shankh is obtained from the mouth of river kaveri in south India. Panch Janya Shankh is considered best of all.

Shankh has more significance in Indian spirituality and is considered as a form of god. It is belived that different god remains present on its different parts Brahama is present on its head Sun god in middle and moon in the lower position. Right part is the place of Dikpalas where as central four parts is the symbol of Ganga.

Vedas also consist of provision of Shankh worship and rishies has composed sacred mantras for this. On the occasion of worship its five name are used – Amburaj, Kamburaj, Dhawalaya, Panch Janaya, Padambhargava.

Shankhs are considered as prrecious property. Lord Kuber is considered as owner of 9 properties and Shankh is one of them-like wise Shankh is are of the musical instrument and most significance of five musical instrument in the tradition of Indian classical music.

In ancient period to have a Shankh was the symbol of power and valoury. In Bhagwad Geeta there is mention of Panch Janaya Shankh of Lord Krishna, Anant Vijay of Yudhisthir, Pondu Shankh is Bhim, Devadatta of Arjun, Sughesh of nakul and Manipushpak Shankh of Sahdeo besides other fighters had used Shankh with different names.

In Budh religion Shankh is considered as indicator of good omen and luck beside Hindu relgion. the Asthmangal signs as mentioned in budh religion. Shankh is one of them.

In puranas and other religious text, water kept in Shankh has been considered very sacred and important. It has been regarded as one which ends all diseases and evils. In spiritual sect Shankh sound is considered to repeal bad spirits and bad luck do not enters. However the powder of Shankh is used in the Ayarvedic medicine of different types.

Presently a seprate stream of science for studying Shankhas have been founded and called Malacology. Malacologists are the expert of this and this study in getting popularity very much in recent years.

Today the sound fo Shankh is considered very sacred in true sense in hindu society and is called Gosh. It is considered as symbol of victory holyness welfare good omen and lluch Brahaman priest worship different god through it also.

Among several holy symbols of Hindu religion is one-Kalash Establishment of Kalash is done on every occassion of worship and custom in Hindu religion this Kalash could be constructed of Soil or other kinds of metals. It may have large or big size but it symbolisez as God.

TheKalsh is known with several names of gods and have religious imp;ortance and is called as Purna Kalsh which is well decorated. Beside it other names of Purna Kalash are Som Kalsh, Chandra Kalash, Indra Kumbh, Purna Ghat, Mangal Kalash, Bhadraghat, Purna Kumbh etc.

Purna Kalash has been considered as and important source of life in Vedic text. Rigveda also contains its importance worship mantras and performance methods. In ancient religious text its symbolishes properity knowledge and immortality. Puranas also describe its holyness.

The Kalash was originated firstly from Samudra Manthan. It is belived that Dhanwantri had come out of ocean with this Amrit Ghat (Kalash). This Amrit had given immortality to gods and they could only then defeat demons. The different Kumbh Festivel is related with this Amrit Kumbh (ghat) being organised at different four places in India-Haridwar, Prayag, Ujjain and Nasik. Lord Vishnu had to take Mohini roop for the safety of this Kalash.

Different god had been shown with this Kalash in their hand. In Purana it has been described in the hands of Brahama – the generator of universe, as a first guru Lord Shiva and also in the hand of goddess Lakshmi. Thus this Kalash becomes the symbol of life, knowledge and prosperity (worldly pleasures).

Some times foed grains, coins, gems and other precious metals are also poured in the Purna Kalash and ideal Kalash is filled with pure water and is covered with Mango leaves which are normally five in numbers. A coconut bounded in red cloth piece and threads is kept on these mango leves a raw cotton thread is bounded all around the Kalash, Some-times swastik mark is also drawn on it.

Each part of this purna Kalash has religious and decoratives significance. The pot is the symbol of mother earth who is the mother of all on this earth. The mango leaves are the symbol of Kamdeo and is the source of physical pleasures where as coconut marks power and prosperity. Similarly the pot water symbolises the elements of elixir. Thus this Kalash is the symbol of the life giving form of nature in its totality.

Few famous religious shcolars consider Poorna Kalash as the symbol of five basic elements. the middle part of kalash marks earth. The water in it symbolishes elixir. The neck of Kalash is the place of fire while its mouth marks the place of air. Similarly mango leaves and coconut are considered as symbol of sky.

Basically Purna Kalash represents Lord Vishnu however other religious text considers its symbol of Vighneshwar ganesh, Adishakti, Kuber etc. Likewise Kalash establishment is done on many holy occassion like worship, custom, house enty ceremony, marriage, birth occassion and in this way Kalash is considered as symbol of prosperity and welfare.

Ancient Vedic and religious text describe methods and philosphy regarding Kalash worship which is prosperous from every aspect. According to it Lord Vishnu resides at the mouth of Kalash while Lord rudra in the neek. Lord Brahama reside at the bottom of Kalash where as female god in the middle part of it. Water of seven occeans in the abdomen of it resides with four vedas, up vedas and commentry text according to it original Kalash was established by Lord Brahama.

The beautiful form of Kalash has been depicted in Indian art of drawing, painting and sculpture. the Kalash Shape has been widely used in ancient temples. The Kalash painting is a popular theme in Madhubani paintings. Kalash has began to be used in vastu demerits and for properity in modern times.

The Kalash has been given important in other Indian religions. In jain religion it is one of the eight good sign. the Shwatambar and Digambar both considered its holy good and for welfare. A Jain follower marks two eyes on the Kalash which represents right faith and right knowledge. The marwari peoples and business related men makes Kalash sign on their door steps which shows the meaning of welcome.

‘SWASTIK” is the most important symbolic sign being used after the sign ‘ohm’ (ऊँ) in Hindu religion, although, this sign has been used on different religious occassions in several cultures & civilisation in the world. The word “SWASTIK” originates from two words of Sanskrit language. ‘Su’ and ‘As’ of which literal meaning is “good omen”. In fact, this sign is the indicative of prosperity good luck and welfare.

Several facts as well as relevant details regarding importance of Swastik have been described as Vedas and Puranas. It has been considered as Ultimate Truth (The Lord) in these famous Hindu relgious texts. In Rigvedas. Swastik has been descripted as Lord Sun God which is the supreme and most powerful. Its four arms expresses about release of energy from it all around.

In Puranas Swastik has been said as Sudarshan Chakra of Lord Vishnu. However at one place it has also been described that origin of Swastik is the navel of Lord Vishnu. Lord Brahama has composed it alongwith all the four Vedas and the whole universe with his four month and four hands sitting on the Lotus flower rising from his navel.

Attempts have been made to give social importance to Swastiks also. It’s all the four arms have been symbolised as four varnas, four ashramas, four purushartha etc.

ARM	VARNA	ASHRAM	PURUSHARTHA
First Arm	Brahaman	Brahamacharya	Dharma
Second Arm	Kshatriay	Grihasta	Artha
Third Arm	Vaishya	Vanprastha	Kama
Fourth Arm	Shudra	Sanyas	Moksh

Swastik, infact is the sign of good omen all around. In the Amarkosha Gupta age text, it has been written that Swastik sign was coined with the feelings that prosperity should come to every people in every direction. According to Hindu belief, Swastik sign is lucky or good only when it is created in the direction clock wise.

All the four arm of it has separate symbolic significance vertical arm indicates possitiveness and progress while left arm marks increasing holy power likewise lower arms marks patience which controlls knowledge and activity of a person, Right side arm is considered as an index of development with truthfullness and loyality where as inverted Swastik sign is considered as indicative of darkness, and innocency.

Swastik sign is one of the oldest symbol of human civilisation. This symbolic sign has been obtained from different part of the worlds during archeological excavation.

In India people of indus valley civilisation were using it. Seals with Symbolic sign, Swastik have been obtained from Lothal and Harrappa.

There is a mantra devoted to Swastik in Regveda, also. It is considered as magically good omen and it is recited on the occassion of every holy work and is called Swastik Vachana.

     Swasti na Indro Virdhashrava Swasti Na Pusa Vishwa Veda I

     Swasti hastakshryo aristhanemi Swasti no Brishapatidadhatu II

Swastik symbol is considerably popular in business comunity. it is considered at sign of Lord Ganesha there as a custum to draw two large lines which are considred as the sign of two wires of Lord Ganesha – Ridhi and Sidhi. Some times Shubh and Labh is also written and are considered to sons of Lord Ganesha.

Swastik mark is considered very much significant from the view of Vashtu Shastra. The house in which if there is a Vashtudosh then to get relief from it he should make Swastik sign from neem wood and should be kept in Ishan Kon of the house. Swastik Vashan also should be recited on this occassion.

Many of the scholars believe that of there is a problem related with either heath or economy in a house then it can be cured with the use of Swastik sign for this Swastik mark be made with Roli and Haldi on each of the doors and also Swastik Vachan be recited.

Description has been made in Yoga Shastra of Patanjali that one should alwlays recite Swati Vachan before starting any work and due to its impact work is completed without any obstacle. But it is not possible for every body so Swsstik Mark is made before start of any work, only.

Swastik sign was very much popular during Second World War years. Hitler had used as the symbol of his political party Nazi. He had belived that it is the mark of pure and holy work. He had started the use of it is symbol in the flag of his Nazi party since 1920. he has described about it in his autobiography – My struggle (Mein Kampts) although he used this symbol in digonal shape.

Hindus are using modern days even in fashion beside its use in art, religion and social custum and traditons. Even followers of Buddhism and Janism also used it respectfully and considered it one of the mark of Asthamangal. In Jain religion Swastik is considered as the symbol of 7th thrithankar, Su parshavanath. They make a sign of Swastik for offering foods to the idols and made it with rice.

Indeed it has been said about atharvaveda on bhasya. That the absolute knowledge of atharveda fullfills all kinds of purushartha.

Atharveda is very significant from social and cultural view. the oldest proof use of word slave is found in it beside mention of sacred thread ceremony (upnayan sanskar). the word gotra and Sangathan were mention in it for the first time.

This Veda also provides information about movement of aryans towards east in detail probably aryans had recided in the valley of ganga vriver by this time. For the first time the regions like any and Magadh were described in atharveda.

Several commentries have been written on atharvaveda for first time acharya Sayan wrote a commentry on it in 14th century and on this basis several literature were published. In the last year of 19th century griffith had published it in english in two parts. Ludewish is credited for publishing it in german language.

Gopath Brahaman is the only Brahaman associated with atharveda which is smallest of all Brahamanas three vedic upnishads – Manduk, Prashan and Mandukya are associated with atharvaveda.

OM (ऊँ) is considered as the holiest symbol of Hindu religion and also called Pranav. Few scholars belives it as a picture which shows the whole universe in it where as few considers it as Beej mantra which marks the Lord Brahama. it is considered as a sacred word in all the popular religions started from India – Jain, Budha and Sikh, it is also read as omkar.

It exhibits the spritual and scientific origin of life. OM originates from wiring of three latters a, u and m a is belived to be originated from navel and is considered as a symbol of Lord Brahama spiritually who is regarded as generator of the whole universe.

Word is believed to be originated for heart. Religiously if represents Lord Vishnu. he is considered responsible for conduction of the whole universe. Even he has responsibility for maintaing the balance of Lord Vishnu on Lotus.

OM letter symblises mind (wisdom) and represents Lord Shiva. it is belived that (according to purana) he operates the whole universe in himself when Lord Vishnu Sleeps. In this way he is considered on logical creator of the universe.

Truly OM word is considered as supreme god. It has been said in Kathoprishad that OM is the ultimate aim of all the knowledges that a person requires and described in all the Vedas. Likewise Patanjali in his Yoga Darshan says that any meditation worship or activity has its Zenith point which is Omkara.

OM is the only word which can not be further divided on the basis of Wachan (eak wachan, Dui wachan and Bahu wachan). Ling (sex)-(Feminine, masculine and Neutral) and Bibhakti (First person, second person, third person etc.) that is it is complete into itsefl and of is considered as with form and without form both simultaneously.

There are several facts as described in several religious text showing its importance. in Gopath Brahaman it is said that when Prajapati Braham (Generator and Operator of world) remember Brahama to know about god, Ved, Yogya etc, he saw the world OM. As such he was the first who pronouns OM. In this way this is the first who pronouns OM. In this way this is the first sound of the universe.

In Bhagwad Geeta Lord Krishna declares himself as OM. when he describes himself as complete Brahama as supreme god and declares it complete truth. Yoga Darshan also says about similar subjects.

Its important has been described on other way in Mandukya upnishad. According to it represents apti, represents Prayers and development while M stands for miti. Thus all the desires are full fill only by pronouncing the first letter A. Pronouncing of second letter U gives knowledge and progress while the calculations of time direction and different objects is desired from third letter M.

Omkar has been used in both philosphies-dwaith as well as adwaita and they described it as per there ideology. Krishna followers marks as Lord Krishna, u as Radha and M as linging organism where as adwait follower sees the whole universe in OM and considers rest as only illusion.

Since OM is considered the holiest Beej Mantra, every Mantras begins with OM in Hindu religion. It is used as praise in religious text. On account of his holiness few scholars belive that the word OM should be used with due regards and should be avoided to use it on unsuitable places.

Beside Hindu religion Jain Budh and Sikh also belive it the holiest one. Jain followers considered it the result of Panch Param shrestha (Arihant, Ashariri, Acharya, Upadhayay, Muni). Show the Mantra ‘’OM namah’’ is considered as narrated form of Omkar Mantra. Budh follower also used it during there meditation as Beej Mantra.

In ancient period there was a separate ideology in use other than Pranav wad. it was initially called sphotvad according to which a sound (word) is a supreme God. Famous Yogi and philospher of 6th century. Bharat Hari has also imphaisized on the worship of word. In Gopath Brahaman the word OM is described as best medium to have inter course with Lord Brahama. When is called Pranav Sadhana.

Atharvaveda is last among all four vedas, but it has not been included in the class of ‘VED TRAYI’. Many scholars consider it as most significant on the basis of its importance. It has embodied the totality of life in itself. Other vedas are much more associated with, spistuality while this veda is associated with physical life.

It is quite different in many ways from other vedas. The subjects related to the physical life is more dominant in it. It differs from other vedas in languages used in it and is considerably seems to be influenced with local language. it was composed after 800 B.C. in the last after all other vedas.

According to famous Vedic Acharya, Bhagwati Devi Verune, there is hidden/sacred knowledge beside pure science in other branches of vedas but Atharveda contains practical knowledge beside secrecies of scientific knowledge.

‘Ath’ literally means of welfare. ‘Atharved stands for Agni (fire) & ‘Athervan’ means ‘priest’. Thus those ved is called Atharveda, whose shlokas all problems difficulties, natural calamities, problems related with evil spirets etc. Through agni (yagya) & does welfare of common people.

This Veda contains mention of Gods more than other vedas, however, theoretically, this veda is dedicated to ‘Parampita’ (God). Its nature is related with Indrajaal, removal of bad spirits etc. The shlokas/matras of both, peace-giving & thought-provoking have been used in it.

Mahabhashya of Patanjali mentions a branches of Atharveda. According to Laaryan rishi, the names of these are – Vaiplaad, Taound, Maand, Shouskiya, Jajal, Jalad, Brahmanical, Devadarshi and charan vaidya. Presently, its two branches – viplaad & shouskiya are avfailable.

Presently, available Atharveda contains 20 Kaands (section) with 731 Sukta (hymns) & 5977 total mantrass. it is written in mixed style. Its section (kaand) No. 15 & 16 are in prose style while 17th Kaand (section) in both proofe as well as poetry style-mixed style. Other Kaand (section) are found in poetry style.

The Chief Priest of Atharvveda was known as Braham. he has status of chief among all priest. His duties was monotor supervise and conduct all kinds of yagya methods as such he used to be an expert of all vedas beside he used to be mentally tough and confidant.

In vedic literature there are several name for atharvveda. It contains 900 mantras dedicated to supreme god Brahama and it was used by the priest name Brahama, So it is also called Brahamveda like wise the visimany of this veda and disciple of angarik rishi, Bhrigu, is given credit for its popularity and as such it is also known as Bhringbang rish veda.

The Kensukta an important section of atharveda is considered as the oldest souls of medical science in India. It contains names of several herbal plants and manras to get rid of critical disease its cause an also associated with different body parts. So it is also called Bheshad veda.

Twelfth section of this veda contains and very important sukta called Mahi Sukle or prithivi sukta containg total 63 mantras. This founds discussion about mantra, Matabhumi putro aham Pratimayua, in which earth has been called the mother. It is the oldest thought of mother land due to importance of this sukta it is also called mahiveda.

On the basis of compilation years, athavveda is divided into four parts. its first part contians 1 to 7 sctions. It contains very less number of mantrass. In its sukta from 1 to 8 ‘These sukta is associated with medicinal remedies of disease end of enemy long life animal related etc.

8-12 section of this sukta are very large. Prithivi Sukta contains 63 mantras. It is associated with several types of victory anjd names of animals. Thus the Sukta of this part has different types of subject.

3rd part inmcludes 13-18 sections. The Suktas of this part has uniformity in each section for example 13 section has spritual subjects and mantras then marriage related mantras are found in 14th section. 16th section contains mantrass for ending bad dreams then 17th section includes mantras associated with hypnotism.

19-20th section are found in 4th part and most of the mantras are- P. 40? 20th section contains mantras associated with Somyagya.

Indeed it has been said about atharvaveda on bhasya. That the absolute knowledge of atharveda fullfills all kinds of purushartha.

Atharveda is very significant from social and cultural view. the oldest proof use of word slave is found in it beside mention of sacred thread ceremony (upnayan sanskar). the word gotra and Sangathan were mention in it for the first time.

This Veda also provides information about movement of aryans towards east in detail probably aryans had recided in the valley of ganga vriver by this time. For the first time the regions like any and Magadh were described in atharveda.

Several commentries have been written on atharvaveda for first time acharya Sayan wrote a commentry on it in 14th century and on this basis several literature were published. In the last year of 19th century griffith had published it in english in two parts. Ludewish is credited for publishing it in german language.

Gopath Brahaman is the only Brahaman associated with atharveda which is smallest of all Brahamanas three vedic upnishads – Manduk, Prashan and Mandukya are associated with atharvaveda.