The Atharvaveda

DETAILS : 

• Author : Devi Chand
  
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers
  
• Publication date :August 1, 1997
  
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
  
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 949 pages
  
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 8121501725
  
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-8121501729
  
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1550 g

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Atharvaveda, as translated by Devi Chand, is a monumental scholarly effort to render the fourth Veda of ancient India into clear, modern English. Often called the "Veda of Magic and Medicine," the Atharvaveda is distinct from the other three Vedas (Rig, Yajur, and Sama) because it focuses less on public rituals and more on the daily life and psychological well-being of the individual.

Devi Chand’s translation provides access to a wide array of ancient knowledge, including:

• Healing and Ayurveda: Extensive hymns dedicated to the treatment of diseases, the properties of medicinal herbs, and longevity.
• Social and Domestic Life: Prayers for harmony in the family, success in trade, and the protection of the state.
• Metaphysics: Profound philosophical inquiries into the nature of time (Kala), the breath of life (Prana), and the ultimate reality (Brahman).
• Protective Charms: Invocations intended to ward off negative influences, bad dreams, and spiritual obstacles.

This edition is particularly valued because Devi Chand follows the Exposition of Swami Dayananda Saraswati, providing a rationalistic and monotheistic interpretation that avoids the "primitive magic" labels often applied by early Western translators.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Devi Chand was a dedicated scholar and educator associated with the Arya Samaj movement. He committed much of his life to the mission of making the Vedas accessible to the common person, believing that the Vedic message was universal and not restricted by caste or creed.

His work is characterized by meticulous linguistic study and a deep devotion to the "Back to the Vedas" philosophy. By translating the Atharvaveda and the Yajurveda, he helped bridge the gap between ancient Sanskrit liturgy and contemporary seekers, ensuring that the scientific and ethical dimensions of the Vedas were highlighted for a modern, English-speaking audience.