How many mandalas are there in the Rig Veda?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
10
ExplanationThe Rig Veda is structured into 10 distinct books known as Mandalas. This ancient text comprises a total of 1,028 hymns called Suktas, which are dedicated to various deities who represent elements of nature and moral order in the Vedic tradition.
The arrangement of the Mandalas is not chronological; rather, they reflect different periods of composition and the contributions of various sage families. The middle Mandalas, ranging from the second to the seventh, are traditionally regarded as the oldest sections of the entire collection. These family books hold deep historical significance as they preserve the lineage of the Rishis who composed the verses.
The first and the tenth Mandalas are considered to be later additions to the collection compared to the core books. The tenth Mandala, in particular, contains the famous Purusha Sukta, which provides foundational insights into the early social stratification and cosmological beliefs of the time.
Important Questions and AnswersQuestion: What are the hymns in the Rig Veda called?
Answer: The hymns in the Rig Veda are collectively known as Suktas.
Question: Which Mandalas are traditionally considered the oldest?
Answer: The second through the seventh Mandalas are known as the family books and are considered the oldest sections of the Rig Veda.