Rigveda 10.190

Background

Rigveda Mandala 10, Sukta 190 is a highly significant hymn that deals with the cosmic creation and the principles that maintain order in the universe. It primarily addresses the concepts of Ṛta (cosmic order) and Dharma (moral law), and how creation proceeds from a primordial state to the orderly cosmos governed by Ṛta.
This Sukta has only three verses, but its impact is profound as it describes the process of creation in a succinct yet deeply philosophical manner. The hymn draws a direct connection between the emergence of the cosmos and the establishment of natural law and morality.

Structure of Sukta 190

Verse 1:
The hymn begins by describing the appearance of the cosmos. It starts with the origin of the Ṛta (cosmic order) and Satya (truth) from the primordial state. The verse suggests that cosmic law and truth were the very first things to emerge when creation took place. These principles hold the cosmos together, ensuring balance and harmony in the universe. It also introduces the role of Dharma, which is seen as the basis for both natural laws and moral conduct. The alignment of the individual and the universe with Ṛta ensures the proper functioning of the world.

Verse 2:
The second verse speaks of the establishment of night and day and the cycles of time (day and night, months, seasons). These are the direct manifestations of Ṛta as they mark the cyclical nature of existence, governed by the laws of time and order. The cyclical nature is not just physical but metaphysical, showing how existence is maintained in balance through constant renewal and transformation.

Verse 3:
The last verse invokes Agni, the fire god, as the key principle of sacrifice (Yajna) that connects the human realm to the divine. The act of sacrifice itself is seen as an extension of cosmic law, ensuring that the universe stays in balance. Sacrifice is the method by which humans acknowledge and sustain Ṛta.
Agni is portrayed as the carrier of offerings, signifying his role as the mediator between the physical and divine realms. He ensures the continuity of cosmic processes, and his role as the deity of fire brings warmth, light, and sustenance.

Key Themes in Sukta 190

Ṛta (Cosmic Order):
Ṛta is a recurring concept in the Rigveda, representing the principle of order, balance, and harmony that governs the universe. In Sukta 190, Ṛta is not only the foundation of the cosmos but also the guiding force behind the cycles of time, the seasons, and moral law. Everything is governed by this cosmic order.

Time and Cycles:
The hymn emphasizes the cyclical nature of time and existence, represented by the recurring cycles of day and night, seasons, and other natural phenomena. These cycles are seen as manifestations of Ṛta, constantly regenerating and sustaining life.

Dharma (Moral Law):
The hymn implies that moral law (Dharma) is inseparable from cosmic law (Ṛta). Humans are expected to align their actions with Dharma to maintain harmony with the cosmos. This establishes a connection between individual responsibility and the greater order of the universe.

Sacrifice and Agni:
Agni, the fire god, plays a central role as the medium through which sacrifices are offered to the gods. The act of sacrifice is portrayed as an essential part of maintaining Ṛta, ensuring the flow of life and prosperity.

Interpretation of Sukta 190

Sukta 190 provides a glimpse into the Vedic understanding of the universe as a well-ordered system governed by eternal laws. The universe is not random or chaotic but proceeds from Ṛta, ensuring balance in both the physical and metaphysical realms. By adhering to Dharma, humans are able to harmonize themselves with the cosmic order. Moreover, the role of time in this hymn shows that Vedic philosophy perceives time as cyclical and continuous, with periods of creation, preservation, and dissolution. Agni, as the god of fire, symbolizes transformation and renewal, making sure that this cosmic order is sustained.

Conclusion

Rigveda Mandala 10, Sukta 190 reflects the deep Vedic concern with understanding the principles that underlie the cosmos. Through the imagery of Ṛta, Dharma, and cycles of time, the hymn shows how the universe is created, sustained, and renewed. The hymn also highlights the importance of human alignment with these cosmic principles through the act of sacrifice and ethical conduct. This Sukta presents a fascinating view of the world where natural and moral laws are not separate but intertwined, and where the balance of the universe depends on the participation of both gods and humans in maintaining Ṛta.

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Litterateur

Page article "Rigveda 10.190" -by Dr. Kalinkaar Dipendra

References

• Rigveda, Ganga S. Sharma, Sanskrit Sahitya Prakashan, 2016. (Rig. 10.190). ISBN: 978-93-5065-223-7

Last updated on

October 2, 2024