Consider the following statements regarding the Vedic literature: 1. The Rigveda contains collections of hymns known as suktas composed in praise of various deities. 2. The Samaveda is primarily a musical rendering of sacrificial hymns derived largely from the Rigveda. 3. The Atharvaveda focuses extensively on royal consecration rituals and large-scale horse sacrifices. Which of the statements given above are correct?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Statements 1 and 2 are correct because the Rigveda consists of over a thousand hymns dedicated to gods like Agni and Indra, and the Samaveda compiles melodic chants meant for ritual singing during sacrifices. Statement 3 is incorrect because royal consecration rituals such as Rajasuya and horse sacrifices like Ashvamedha are detailed in the Yajurveda and the Brahmanas, whereas the Atharvaveda deals predominantly with charms, spells, and medicinal herbs. The Yajurveda specifically outlines the prose formulas and rituals required by the officiating priests during sacrifices.