Ancient Indian Literature
Which is the Oldest Veda? | Rig Veda Facts
The Rig Veda is the oldest Veda, composed around 1500-1000 BCE, and contains hymns in praise of various deities.
Primary Reference: NCERT Class 6 - Our Pasts I
Archived:
Updated:
Exam Year
2010
Evidence Source
Link ↗Which one of the following is oldest Veda?
[Uttarakhand P.C.S. Prelims 2010]
Detailed Solution & Historical Context
Concept
The Vedic corpus consists of four texts, with the earliest representing the first literary work of the Indo-Aryans in India.
Authentic Source Evidence
The Rig Veda is dated by most scholars to c. 1500–1000 BCE. It is a collection of 1,028 hymns (Suktas) organized into 10 books (Mandalas).Analytical Breakdown
Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic
"Which part of the Rig Veda is considered the oldest?"
Mandalas 2 through 7 (known as the Family Books) are considered the oldest core of the Rig Veda.
Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip
"The Rig Veda is not just a religious text but a historical record of the early social and political life of the Indo-Aryan tribes."
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