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U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2013

Vedic Hierarchy of Deities

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who among the following Vedic deities was believed to be their priest?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept The Vedic pantheon mirrored human society, having its own kings (Indra), messengers (Agni), and priests (Brihaspati).

Explanation Rigveda refers to Brihaspati (or Brahmanaspati) as the 'Purohita' (chief priest) of the Devas, who provides counsel and performs sacrifices for their success.

Logical Breakup
Brihaspati (B): The 'Guru' or teacher of the gods and their spiritual guide.
Agni (A): Often called the 'Priest of the Sacrifice' because he carries offerings to gods, but Brihaspati is the intellectual/ritual priest *of* the gods themselves.

Active Recall

Question

What is the difference between the roles of Agni and Brihaspati?

Answer

Agni is the physical fire/messenger who conveys the sacrifice, while Brihaspati is the personification of the prayer and the ritual wisdom of the priest.

Core Insight

Brihaspati represents the sanctification of the priest's role, elevating the human 'Brahmin' to a cosmic level by associating it with a deity.

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