History Chapter 2: The Vedic Age (Rigvedic & Later Vedic) | Full Notes & Mock Test
Chapter 2: The Vedic Age (1500 BCE – 600 BCE)
The Vedic Age began with the arrival of the Aryans in India. This period is named after the 'Vedas', which are the primary source of information about this era. It is divided into two parts: the Early Vedic Period and the Later Vedic Period.
1. Vedic Literature (The Four Vedas)
| Veda | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Rigveda | Oldest Veda; contains 1028 hymns and 10 Mandalas. The Gayatri Mantra is in the 3rd Mandala. |
| Samaveda | Book of Melodies/Chants; important for Indian Classical Music. |
| Yajurveda | Book of Sacrificial Prayers and Rituals. |
| Atharvaveda | Book of Magical Charms, Spells, and Medicine. |
2. Early Vedic vs Later Vedic Period
Early Vedic (1500-1000 BCE):
• Society was egalitarian; Women had a high status and attended assemblies like Sabha & Samiti.
• Economy was pastoral (Cattle-rearing). Cow was considered 'Aghanya' (not to be killed).
• Main Deity: Indra (Purandara - Breaker of Forts), Agni, and Varuna.
• Society was egalitarian; Women had a high status and attended assemblies like Sabha & Samiti.
• Economy was pastoral (Cattle-rearing). Cow was considered 'Aghanya' (not to be killed).
• Main Deity: Indra (Purandara - Breaker of Forts), Agni, and Varuna.
Later Vedic (1000-600 BCE):
• Discovery of Iron (Shyama Ayas) led to agriculture-based economy.
• Varna System became hereditary and rigid.
• Main Deity: Prajapati (The Creator), Vishnu, and Rudra.
• Discovery of Iron (Shyama Ayas) led to agriculture-based economy.
• Varna System became hereditary and rigid.
• Main Deity: Prajapati (The Creator), Vishnu, and Rudra.
3. Geographical Extent
Aryans initially settled in the Sapta Sindhu region (Land of Seven Rivers). Later, they moved towards the Indo-Gangetic plains (Aryavarta).
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