U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2014

Vedic Theology

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Rig-vedic religion was-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept The early Vedic people personified powerful natural phenomena as gods, leading to a pantheon with various specialized deities.

Explanation The Rigveda contains hymns to multiple gods (Indra, Agni, Varuna, Surya, etc.). Max Müller also coined the term 'Henotheism' to describe the tendency to praise one god as supreme at a given moment.

Logical Breakup
Polytheistic (A): This is the most accurate description as they worshipped many gods, each representing different natural forces.
Monistic (C): While some later hymns hint at a single underlying reality (Ekam Sat), the dominant early religious practice was polytheistic.

Active Recall

Question

What is 'Henotheism' in the context of the Rigveda?

Answer

It is the worship of one god at a time, where the deity being addressed is treated as the supreme or only god for the duration of the prayer.

Core Insight

The Rigvedic pantheon reflects a 'social contract' with nature, where humans offered sacrifices (Yajna) in exchange for rain, health, and victory.