UPSC Prelims 2004 Q27: Art & Culture – Philosophy & Religion
Which one of the following four Vedas contains an account of magical charms and spells?
- (a) Rig - veda
- (b) Yajur - veda
- (c) Atharva - veda
- (d) Sama - veda
Answer: (c) Atharva - veda
Explanation
Vedas and magical charms
| Veda | Content |
|---|---|
| Atharva Veda | Magical charms and spells, healing hymns, popular beliefs |
| Rig Veda | Hymns to gods |
| Yajur Veda | Sacrificial formulas |
| Sama Veda | Melodies for chanting |
The Atharva Veda contains charms, spells and incantations for healing, protection and prosperity.
Answer: (c) Atharva-veda.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. The Rig Veda is a collection of hymns.
- (b) Incorrect. The Yajur Veda has sacrificial formulas.
- (c) CORRECT. The Atharva Veda has magical charms and spells.
- (d) Incorrect. The Sama Veda has melodies.
Key point
Rig: hymns; Sama: music; Yajur: ritual; Atharva: magic and medicine.
Remember
The Atharva Veda contains magical charms and spells.
Common mistakes
- Choosing the Rig Veda as the oldest and main Veda.
- Mixing up the Sama and Yajur contents.
- Forgetting that Atharva is the fourth and later Veda.
Exam tip
Atharva Veda: folk beliefs, early medicine.
Sources
- R. S. Sharma — Ancient India (NCERT textbook for Class XI)
- Romila Thapar — A History of India, Volume 1 (Penguin)