The summaries of conferences held in ancient India were called ______.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 4: Samhita.
Explanation:
In ancient India, the summaries of scholarly conferences or assemblies held by learned individuals—or the collections of knowledge compiled by them—were referred to as Samhita.
The literal meaning of Samhita is 'compilation' or 'collection.' It primarily refers to that section of the Vedas comprising mantras and hymns which has been compiled and organized into a systematic form.
Each Veda possesses its own distinct Samhita (e.g., Rigveda Samhita, Yajurveda Samhita, etc.).
Additional Facts:
• Ghana: In ancient India, this term denoted a type of association or an oligarchic system of governance, wherein decisions were made collectively.
• Vedas: The term signifies 'knowledge.' These constitute the most ancient and sacred scriptures of Hinduism (namely, the Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda).
• Puranas: The term signifies 'ancient' or 'old.' These texts contain genealogies and mythological narratives concerning ancient kings, sages, and deities. There are 18 Puranas.
• Brahmanas: These are texts composed subsequent to the Samhitas that provide interpretations of Vedic mantras and detail the procedures and rituals associated with them.
Potential Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: Which Veda is referred to as the 'Father of Indian Music'?
Answer: The Samaveda.
Question: Which is the most ancient Veda, comprising 1,028 hymns (Suktas) and 10 books (Mandalas)?
Answer: The Rigveda.
Question: From which Upanishad have the words 'Satyameva Jayate' been derived?
Answer: The Mundaka Upanishad.
Answer: Red Blood Cells (RBCs or Erythrocytes).