Introduction to Indian Knowledge System (IKS)

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What does the word Veda mean and why is it called Apaurusheya (Impersonal)?

Veda means wisdom - the post assimilated state of knowledge. Vedic text was authored but the Veda is revealed to the seers in their deep meditative contemplations. Hence Veda is Apaurusheya (Impersonal).

On what fundamental characteristics has the wisdom been categorized into four Vedas?

The wisdom has been categorized into four Vedas based on the types of mantras they contain: Riks, Sama, Yajus, and Atharvana.

What does Chatuvarni-Vak concept of Rig Veda? How does it relate to our everyday context?

This word is limited to four stages/parts. Those who know this are the intelligent and intellectual brahmanas. In them, three parts are hidden. Fourth part is being spoken by humans.

What are the elements of Samagana Mantra and how does these help preserve Sama Veda in oral tradition?

The elements of Samagana are: Varna (syllable), Svara (Accent), Matra (duration), Balam (effort), Sama (even tone), Santana (context). Signup and view all the answers

Mention few of the names of the gods that appear in it along with their inner-meanings.

Some of the Gods and their powers are: Agni (Fire, Will-power), Indra (Lord of Gods, Mind), Vayu (Wind, pulsations), Asvins (Twin gods, physicians), Mithra (Sun, warmth, love), Varuna (Rain, boundary/layers), Soma (Delight, bliss), Aditi (Goddess of Infinity), Ila (Goddess of revelation), Sarasvati (Goddess of knowledge), Sarma (Goddess of intuition), Rudra (Virations of space), Visnu (Space, pervasiveness), Vasu (Material wealth),. Signup and view all the answers

Mention few words of wisdom as they appear in Atharvaveda.

Some examples of words of wisdom are: May only sweet speech arise in me and may it remain sweet as I deliver it with my tongue. There can be friendship only with persons with sympathy and open heart. Speak only words of happy and good. O human, climb to the heights and do not fall into the depths of ignorance. The Sun (spiritual) is he soul of all that is dynamic and static. Signup and view all the answers

What are the key differences between the Samhita portion and Brahmana portion of the Veda?

The Samhita is the main portion of the Vedic text, which encompasses the mantra-portion of the given Veda is Samhita of that Veda. The Brahmanas carry elaborate explanation of each one of the four original texts Signup and view all the answers

What does the word Upanishad mean? What is the purpose of Upanishads?

The word Upanishad means to sit near, to sit close, to get closer to the truth that is extolled in the Veda. They are the treaties dealing with the ultimate questions of life that we all have. Signup and view all the answers

What shloka helps us remember the 10 principal Upanishads? Name them each of the ten separately?

Ishan Kendra kathas prsna mundakya tithiri, itareya chandogya brihadaranyak dsha. Isa - Shukla Yajur Veda, Kena - Sama Veda, Katha - Krishna Yajur Veda, Prasna - Atharvana Veda, Mundaka - Atharvana veda, Mandukya - Atharvana Veda, Taittiriya - Krishna, Yajur Veda, Aitareya - Rig Veda, Chandogya - Sama Veda, Brihadaranyaka - Shukla Yajur Veda Signup and view all the answers

Explore the 10 principal Upanishads and write a summary on each of the 10 Upanishads (one paragraph per Upanishad).

The Upanishads delve deep into the nature of reality and existence. They provide insights into the fundamental aspects of life, and the eternal questions that have puzzled humanity for centuries. Isa Upanishad, a concise yet profound text, emphasizes the connection between the individual self and the divine by stating 'That thou art.' This concept of the inner self being a manifestation of the universal Self (Brahman) forms the core of Vedanta philosophy. Kena Upanishad explores the nature of Brahman by asking, 'By whom, by what, can this Brahman be known?' It delves into the concept of knowledge and the limitations of human understanding. Katha Upanishad narrates the discourse between Yama, the god of death, and Nachiketas, a young man who desires to understand true knowledge. The conversation focuses on the impermanence of life and the importance of seeking liberation through wisdom. Prasna Upanishad offers a dialogue between a sage and five students who are inquisitive to understand the workings of the universe. Mundaka Upanishad beautifully portrays the nature of reality as two birds residing on the same tree, one actively seeking enjoyment, while the other observes silently. The text highlights the need for self-reflection and detachment from worldly pursuits. Mandukya Upanishad emphasizes the nature of Brahman through the concept of the four states of consciousness - awakening, dreaming, deep sleep, and the state beyond. Taittiriya Upanishad provides a conversation between a sage and a pupil, highlighting practical guidelines about living a righteous life. It encourages upholding truth, practicing dharma, and fulfilling social duties, ultimately leading to liberation. Aitareya Upanishad focuses on the concept of 'prajnanam Brahma,' understanding consciousness as Brahman. Chandogya Upanishad narrates the story of sense organs seeking liberation from their individualistic impulses. It highlights the role of 'prana' and establishes its significance as the very essence of life. Brihadaranyaka Upanishad recounts the dialogue between Prajapati and his three descendants - Gods, humans, and Asuras. It's a testament to the power of 'Da' (give) to achieve self-control, 'Datta' (charity) to achieve an attitude of help, and 'Dayadvam' (compassion) to achieve self-discipline. These three teachings are the foundation of spiritual progress. Signup and view all the answers

What does the conversation of Bhrigu and Varuna convey to the modern world?

This particular Taittiriya Upanishad discusses the nature of Brahman. Bhrigu (B) desirous of knowing Brahman approaches his father Varuna (V). The conversation goes as follows - (V): THAT from which all the beings are born, that which supports their life, that into which they enter and dissolve in the end is BRAHMAN. (B):1 Beings are born out of matter (Anna), they live with the support of matter and when they die, they become one with matter. So Anna is Brahman. (B):2 Beings are born out of Life-animating-principle (Prana), they live with the support of prana and when they die, they become one with Prana. So Prana is Brahman. (B):3 Beings are born out of Mind (Manas), they live with the support of mind and when they die, they become one with mind. So Manas is Brahman. (B):4 Beings are born out of Buddi (Vijnanam), they live with the support of buddhi and when they die, they become one with buddhi. So Vijnanama is Brahman. (B):5 Beings are born out of Bliss (Anandamaya), they live with the support of bliss and when they die, they become one with bliss. So Anandamaya is Brahman. Signup and view all the answers

Write your critical views on what eminent people spoke about the Upanishads?

Eminent personalities like Arthur Schopenhauer, Erwin Schrödinger, Niels Bohr, T.S. Eliot, Annie Besant, William Judge, Swami Vivekananda, M.K. Gandhi, Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, and Sri Aurobindo all recognized the profound impact of the Upanishads. They spoke about the philosophical depth, the spiritual insight, and the universal truths found within these ancient texts. They highlighted the uniqueness of this literature, the ability to guide us towards a deeper understanding of life, and its influence on various aspects of human experiences. Arthur Schopenhauer valued the wisdom and solace offered by the Upanishads. Erwin Schrödinger praised their recognition of Brahman as the ultimate essence of life; Niels Bohr sought answers to existential questions from these texts. T.S. Eliot drew inspiration from the Upanishads for his poetry. Annie Besant viewed them as the beacon-lights of the self. William Judge valued their declaration of each human being a small universe. Swami Vivekananda shared the teachings of the Upanishads, while M.K. Gandhi found inspiration in their universal reality. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan highlighted the profound impact of this literature on the human soul., and Sri Aurobindo acknowledged their role as supreme works of the Indian mind. The Upanishads have resonated with these eminent thinkers and shaped their understanding of human existence, the universe, and spiritual evolution. Signup and view all the answers

What is the relevance of Vedangas in the context of Vedic Repository?

Vedangas act as six keys to unlock the wisdom contained in each Veda and its literature. The key of intonation, helps in preservation of the oral aspects of the Veda. The key of grammar, aims at creating, preserving and furthering of structured words and sentences. The key of etymology, gives an in-depth understanding of the root and family of words used in the Veda. The key of prosody, with its structured three-level hierarchy sets the pretext and backdrop-theme. The key of rituals, guides in all practical purposes of application of the Vedic wisdom in everyday life. The key of Light, helps in understanding the complex web of inter-connectedness of Earth in Cosmos. Signup and view all the answers

Comment on the statement - Vyakarana and Nirukta analyzes the same issue of analyzing the words & meanings?

Vyakarana the science of grammar, aims at creating, preserving and furthering of structured words and sentences. Nirukta, the key of etymology, gives an in-depth understanding of the root and family of words used in the Veda. Signup and view all the answers

What role is played by Siksha in preserving the oral tradition of the Veda?

The key of intonation, helps in preservation of the oral aspects of the Veda. Signup and view all the answers

What is Chandas comprised of and give few examples of Chandas used in Rig Veda?

The main Vedic text is almost in prosody. METER (chandas) gives a specific rhythmic structure based on the context and content to be revealed in the mantra. Some examples of Chandas are: * Gayatri, * Usnik, * Anustup, * Brhati, * Pankti, * Tristup, * Jagati. Signup and view all the answers

Based on historical evidence, what can you infer about Indian Mathematics?

True (A) Signup and view all the answers

When were the concept and symbol of zero discovered in India? What is the significant contribution of this Zero in the world of Mathematics?

It is in 500-300 BCE that the concept of zero was established. Brahmagupta invented a symbol for zero and since then it got a independent status for computational purposes. Ancient Indians used zero beyond the placeholder status, thus elevating its value into an individual numeral - one of the greatest breakthrough in the history of mathematics. Signup and view all the answers

Using David Pingree's and Laplace's quotes as hints, find out different examples where Indians masterfully solved the then complex problems with dexterity?

Even though the ancient Indians didn't use the modern number system that we have today, they were not at all hindered in solving significant problems of many sorts by obstacles in the conception and expression of mathematical ideas. Signup and view all the answers

In the scheme of evolution of cosmos, what are the time-spans that ancient Indians proposed?

The Hindu religion is the only one of the great world's faiths dedicated to the idea that the Cosmos itself undergoes an immense, indeed infinite, number of deaths and rebirths. It is the only religion in which the time scales correspond to those of modern scientific cosmology. Its cycles run from ordinary day and night to a day and night of Brahma, 8,64 trillion years long, Longer than the age of the Earth or the Sun and about half the time since the Big Bang. Signup and view all the answers

Research more on the binary number system developed by sage Pingala (author of Chandas-sastra) and write a small essay?

Sage Pingala, an ancient scholar known for his work on Chandas-sastra (the science of prosody), is credited with pioneering the concept of the binary number system. His work, the Chandas-sastra, delved deeply into the rhythmic patterns and meters used in the Vedic texts. Within this treatise, Pingala explored techniques for analyzing and representing rhythmic sequences using a system based on permutations and combinations. It was through these investigations that he laid the foundation for the binary number system, which later became instrumental in the development of computer science. Pingala's contribution wasn’t limited to just the binary number system; he also explored concepts in combinatorial mathematics, which involves the study of arrangements and selections of objects. His work provided a crucial framework for understanding how patterns can be generated and analyzed, laying the groundwork for later mathematical advancements in the study of permutations, combinations, and discrete mathematics. The binary number system, with its core principle of representing information using zeros and ones, is a fundamental element of modern computing. Pingala’s early contributions paved the way for the development of computers and digital technology, showcasing the power of ancient Indian scholarship in shaping the future of human knowledge and innovation. Signup and view all the answers

Identify the numbers represented by: Anandamrutam, rakshabandhnotsavaha and Korona rajanjasakha?

Anandamrutam = 14491, rakshabandhnotsavaha = 8276541, Korona rajanjasakha= 1639. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how organization of a Yajna and project management are similar in their executions?

The word Yajus means a PLAN or a RITUAL - It is a procedure which is arranged in accordance with the plan of the creation. Signup and view all the answers

Compare and contrast western philosophical systems and Indian Philosophical systems?

A significant distinction between Western and Indian philosophical systems is their relationship to religious thought. In the West, philosophy is largely detached from religion, while in India, philosophy is closely intertwined with religious thought. Indian philosophical systems construct the framework of a broader picture of life with all the essential questions and answers of life at all levels. Western philosophical systems often focus on specific areas of thought, such as logic, ethics, metaphysics, and epistemology, without necessarily drawing direct connections to religious beliefs. Western philosophy, however, has been profoundly influenced by Eastern philosophical thought, particularly in existentialism and phenomenology. Despite their differences, both Western and Indian philosophical systems contribute significantly to our understanding of ourselves and the world we inhabit. They offer valuable frameworks for examining life’s mysteries, exploring the nature of reality, and comprehending the human condition. Signup and view all the answers

Amongst the six vedic schools of philosophy, write the common points and also the differences between them?

The six Vedantic schools (Samkhya, Yoga, Nyaya, Vaiseshika, Purva- Mimamsa, and Uttara-Mimamsa (Vedanta)) shares some common points and they are: * Concepts of Karma, Birth- death -re-birth cycle (Samsara Chakra), Notion of Free-Will, Salvation or liberation from all-entanglements (Moksha & Mukti). * Each school has its distinctive approach and understanding of life’s complexities. * Samkhya explains the origin and manifestation of the universe, emphasizing the duality of Purusa and Prakriti. * Yoga provides a practical path towards liberation through eight steps. * Nyaya focuses on using logic and deduction to attain knowledge. * Vaiseshika analyzes the constituents of the universe. * Purva-Mimamsa establishes the proper understanding of the Vedic rituals. * Uttara- Mimamsa (Vedanta) explores the nature of Brahman as the ultimate reality. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the 8 limbs of Yoga in detail?

The 8 limbs of Yoga are: 1. Yama - Art of limitation (non-harming others unnecessarily, not lying and speaking the truth, freedom from thieving instincts, purity of sex relationship, non-possessive attitude). 2. Niyama - Observances to be followed (physical and mental cleanliness, contentment with what one has, tolerance and perseverance, self-studying scriptures, surrendering to the Supreme Lord). 3. Asana - Comfortable posture (Stable, calm, relaxed) 4. Pranayama - The regulation of pulsations (via breath) 5. Pratyahara - Withdrawal of mind from senses 6. Dharana - Fixing the mind on an object 7. Dhyana - Mind absorbing itself into the thought of the object 8. Samadhi - Mind becoming the object in all its totality - ONENESS. Signup and view all the answers

What are the four noble truths as per Bauddha school of philosophy? Also explain how the cycle of suffering starts and what is the means to end it?

The four noble truths are: Suffering (Dukkha), Origin of Suffering (Samudaya), Cessation of Suffering (Nirodha), The Path to Cessation (Magga). The cycle of suffering starts with ignorance (avidya). This ignorance leads to clinging, which gives rise to craving. This craving then leads to attachment. Attachment leads to suffering. The way out of suffering is the Eightfold Path. * Right View * Right Thought * Right Speech * Right Action * Right Livelihood * Right Effort * Right Mindfulness * Right Concentration. The Eightfold Path provides guidelines for attaining liberation from suffering and achieving Nirvana (the ultimate state of peace and enlightenment). Signup and view all the answers

What is the path to liberation as per the purva-mimamsa school of philosophy?

The main goal: To ascertain the samhita and brahmana portions of the Veda. Signup and view all the answers

What laws of physical science have already been discovered by the Vaiseshikas?

In the absence of conjunction, objects freely fall due to gravity. In the absence of any propulsive energy generated by the action, objects freely fall due to gravity. When no external force is applied, there is no upward or sideways motion. The initial action of exerting a certain force causes the motion of an arrow released from a bow. This implies inertia of motion, no perpetual motion is possible and that every action has an opposite reaction (magnitude is not specified). Thus in Vaiseshika one finds a formal recognition of concept of Gravity - actions of throwing up, falling down, etc. in sutra form. Signup and view all the answers

Purânic literature covers the major portion of ancient wisdom of India - The main goal being to give a lucid commentary to the Veda in simple, symbolical and allegorical tone. What is the correct response?

true Signup and view all the answers

What does the word Purana mean?

The word Purana = Pura api navam bhavat. Even-though the core is old, the truth is conveyed afresh in a more understandable way. Signup and view all the answers

What are the distinctive features of Vedic Life?

The distinctive features of Vedic life are: Vedas extol a living full of energy, enthusiasm, hopes (selfish) and innovations based on necessities. They never asked us to leave-off the material things and run to forests. A balanced approach between material and non-material associations is often recommended. A harmonious, sustained symbiotic living with nature is highly advocated due to recognition of mutual dependency. Yajna was the central theme of lifestyle. The attitude in every occasion of life was of selfless sacrifice. The ultimate tenets of living are SATYAM (TRUTH) - RITAM (RHYTHM) - DHARMA (LAW). Signup and view all the answers

Write about the integral part played by Jyotsisha in everyday life of most of the Indians who follow Vedic traditions?

Jyotisha plays an integral role in the everyday life of most Indians who follow Vedic traditions. It's the science of light, which encompasses astronomy, astrology, and timekeeping. The knowledge of celestial movements, planetary positions, and their influence on life events guides various aspects of life, including festivals, religious rituals, agricultural practices, and even personal decisions. Essentially, Jyotisha provides a framework for understanding the interconnectedness of Earth in the larger cosmic context. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how organization of a Yajna and project management are similar in their execution? (refer IKS textbook)

The organization of a Yajna and project management share interesting similarities in their execution, both requiring carefully structured planning and coordination. <ul> <li>Just like a project, a Yajna involves a clear objective, a defined timeline, and a specific set of tasks to be completed.</li> <li>The Yajna requires detailed planning, resource allocation, and the involvement of multiple individuals with specialized roles, much like a project team.</li> <li>Both involve executing the processes with precision, adherence to schedules, and a focused approach towards achieving the desired outcome.</li> </ul> Signup and view all the answers

What can you infer about Indian mathematics based on historical evidence?

Historical evidence suggests that Indian mathematics was a highly advanced and sophisticated system, playing a pivotal role in the development of our modern number system. It is characterized by its focus on large numbers, zero, place value, and innovative methods for representing numbers. Indian mathematicians were not hindered by what might appear to non-Indians to be formidable obstacles in the conception and expression of mathematical ideas. Their insights made significant contributions to solving problems of all sorts. Signup and view all the answers

Identify the numbers represented by: Anandamrutam, rakshabandahostsava and Korona rajanjasaka?

Using the Bhutasankhya system the numbers are: Anandamrutam = 1944, Rakshabandahostsava = 8276541, Korona rajanjasaka = 416, 567, 248. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes