U.P.P.C.S. (Spl) (Mains) 2008

Vedic Geography and Religion

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which of the following river among the following referred as 'Matetama', 'Devitama' and 'Naditama' in the Rig Veda?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept In Vedic culture, rivers were not just physical entities but personified deities, with the Saraswati holding the highest spiritual rank.

Explanation The Rig Veda explicitly titles the Saraswati as 'Ambitame, Naditame, Devitame' (best of mothers, best of rivers, best of goddesses).

Logical Breakup
Saraswati (B): Considered the holiest river where the Vedas were composed. It is physically identified by many with the dried-up Ghaggar-Hakra bed.
Sindhu (A): The most frequently mentioned river, but not the most 'sacred' (Naditama).

Active Recall

Question

How did the role of the Saraswati change in later Hinduism?

Answer

While it began as a physical river, it later transitioned into the Goddess of learning, wisdom, and the arts.

Core Insight

The titles Matetama and Naditama highlight a society that viewed its water sources as the ultimate divine providers and protectors.