Question

Select the correct statements from the following regarding the Yama-Yami Samvada Sukta (RV 10.10):
A. "Na te sakha sakhyam..." is the second mantra of this Sukta.
B. The Rishi of the Yama-Yami Sukta is Madhuchhandas.
C. There are fifteen mantras in this Sukta.
D. The Yama-Yami Samvada Sukta consists of fourteen mantras.

• A. Only A and B
• B. Only A and C
• C. Only A and D
• D. Only B and D

Hint:

For Samvada Suktas, the Rishis are typically the interlocutors themselves. Also, memorize the verse counts for the "Big Three" Samvada Suktas: Pururava-Urvashi (18), Vishvamitra-Nadi (13), and Yama-Yami (14). This will save time in the exam.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Samvada Suktas (Dialogue Hymns) are a unique genre in the Rigveda that presents a dramatic exchange between two or more characters. The Yama-Yami Samvada Sukta (Rigveda, 10th Mandala, 10th Sukta) is one of the most famous and philosophically significant of these. It depicts a conversation between twin siblings, Yama and Yami. Yami desires a physical union with her brother to ensure the continuation of the human race, while Yama steadfastly refuses, citing moral laws and cosmic order (Rta). Understanding the structure and authorship of such hymns is a core requirement for Vedic studies.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the provided statements in detail:

Statement A: "Na te sakha sakhyam..." is the second mantra.
This is a factual statement. The first mantra of the sukta is spoken by Yami, expressing her desire. The second mantra, starting with "na te sakhā sakhyam vaṣṭi..." is Yama's first response, where he explains that he does not desire a union that violates the laws of kinship. Thus, Statement A is correct.

Statement B: The Rishi is Madhuchhandas.
This is incorrect. The Rishis of Samvada Suktas are usually the characters involved in the dialogue (in this case, Yama and Yami). Madhuchhandas is the Rishi of the very first Mandala of the Rigveda. Thus, Statement B is incorrect.

Statement C and D: Number of mantras.
The Yama-Yami Sukta (10.10) is comprised of exactly 14 mantras. It is a tight, dramatic dialogue where both participants speak in alternate stanzas or groups of stanzas. Therefore, Statement C (15 mantras) is incorrect, and Statement D (14 mantras) is correct.

Thematic Depth of the Sukta:
The hymn explores the transition from a state of primal existence to a world governed by social and moral taboos. Yami represents the biological drive for survival, while Yama represents the emerging ethical consciousness. The dialogue ends with Yami being frustrated and Yama remaining firm in his righteousness. This sukta is often cited as an early precursor to Sanskrit drama due to its intense emotional and logical conflict. Scholars also point out its importance in understanding the Indo-Iranian heritage, as Yama has a counterpart (Yima) in the Avestan tradition.

Conclusion:
Since Statements A and D are correct, the correct option is (C). This question tests the candidate's precise knowledge of the Samhita's internal organization and content.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct statements are A and D. Therefore, option (C) is the right choice.