Question

How many chapters (Adhyayas) are there in the Aitareya Brahmana of the Rigveda?

• A. 40
• B. 08
• C. 20
• D. 10

Hint:

Remember the formula: Aitareya = 8 $\times$ 5 = 40. The name 'Panchika' is the clue—always multiply the number of Panchikas by 5 to get the total number of Adhyayas.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Aitareya Brahmana is the most prominent Brahmana associated with the Rigveda. It provides instructions for the 'Hotr' priest during major sacrifices. The organization of this text is unique; it is divided into large sections called 'Panchikas' and smaller chapters called 'Adhyayas'. Knowing the structural count of these texts is a standard requirement for Vedic literature examinations.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Structure of Aitareya Brahmana: The text is divided into 8 Panchikas. The word 'Panchika' itself implies a group of five. Therefore, each Panchika contains exactly 5 Adhyayas.

2. Total Chapter Count:
\[ 8 \text{ Panchikas} \times 5 \text{ Adhyayas per Panchika} = 40 Adhyayas \]

3. Content Overview:
- Panchikas 1-4: These deal with the Agnishtoma sacrifice and other Soma-sacrifices.
- Panchika 5: Discusses the 'Dvadashaha' sacrifice.
- Panchika 6: Discusses the roles of the various priests and the 'Agnihotra'.
- Panchikas 7-8: These are particularly famous as they discuss the Rajasuya (consecration of a king) and the Aindra Mahabhisheka. The story of Shunahshepa is also found in the 7th Panchika (33rd chapter).

4. Historical Context: The text is attributed to Mahidasa Aitareya. Because of its 40-chapter structure, it is also sometimes compared to other Brahmanas that follow a decimal or octal system. The Aitareya is the primary authority for the Shakala branch of the Rigveda. In contrast, the Shankhayana (Kaushitaki) Brahmana of the Rigveda has only 30 chapters. Distinguishing between the 40 of Aitareya and the 30 of Shankhayana is a common point of testing in the NTA NET/SLET exams.

Step 3: Final Answer:
There are 40 chapters in the Aitareya Brahmana. Thus, option (1) is correct.