Vedic Political Institutions

Sabha and Samiti: Two Daughters of Prajapati

The Atharvaveda describes the Sabha and Samiti as the two daughters of the deity Prajapati.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class 11 - Ancient India (R.S. Sharma)

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In which of the Vedas, Sabha and Samiti are called as two daughters of Prajapati?

[U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2009]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Sabha and Samiti were democratic tribal assemblies that checked the power of the King (Rajan) in early Vedic society.

Authentic Source Evidence


The Atharvaveda explicitly refers to the Sabha and Samiti as the two daughters of the creator god Prajapati, highlighting their divine and essential nature.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Atharvaveda (D): Contains this specific poetic and political metaphor.

  • Sabha: Smaller assembly of elders and elites.

  • Samiti: Larger folk assembly representing the entire tribe (Vis).
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What was the function of the Sabha compared to the Samiti?"

    The Sabha acted like a judicial and elite advisory council, while the Samiti was responsible for electing or deposing the King.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Describing political assemblies as 'daughters of God' indicates the high sanctity and authority these institutions held in controlling the Vedic monarchy."

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