Rig Veda unveiled

The first references to Rudra (who later became Shiva) are in the Rig Veda. The Rig Veda can be interpreted in many different ways...For Advaita Vedanta, the Rig Veda line is extremely simple to understand since Advaitins hold that all deities are different aspects of the Saguna Brahman and so can be identified with it.

In recent times, much work has been done by Sri Aurobindo, Kapali Shastri, David Frawley, R.L. Kashyap and others to show the spiritual aspects of the Rig Veda. In line with Advaitic (though not neccesarily Shankara's Advaita) understanding, these writers often interpret the various deities as different aspects of the Supreme Brahman. The interpretations seem to be quite solid and some good argumentation is also provided in support. Often though, one has the impression that some of the interpretation is a bit far-fetched. Nevertheless, after reading it, it becomes clear that there is a very spiritual side to the Rig Veda and its not just a ritual text. posted by Rishi R. Lamichhane Thursday, February 16, 2006 at 11:37 PM Kshetragya