Question

Select the correct statements regarding the Indra Sukta (RV 2.12) from the following:
A. The first mantra starts with "yo jāta eva prathamo manasvān...".
B. The second mantra starts with "yaḥ pṛthivīṃ vyathamānām adṛṃhat...".
C. The third mantra starts with "yam sma prcchanti...".
D. The fifth mantra starts with "yam krandasi...".

• A. Only B, C
• B. Only A, B
• C. Only A, B, C
• D. Only C, D

Hint:

In the Indra Sukta, the sequence follows a logical progression: 1. Birth/Superiority, 2. Geologic stabilization, 3. Slaying the dragon (Vritra), 4. Creating/Sustaining life, 5. Scepticism of people ("Where is he?"), 6. Battles. This helps in remembering the verse order.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Indra Sukta (Rigveda 2.12) is a famous hymn composed by the sage Gritsamada.
It is celebrated for its rhythmic vigor and the repeated refrain "sa janāsa indraḥ" (He, O people, is Indra).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate the statements:

Statement A: First mantra starts with "yo jāta eva...".
The first stanza (2.12.1) begins: "yo jāta eva prathamo manasvān devo devān kratunā paryabhūṣat...".
(He who at his birth was the first thoughtful deity...).
Thus, Statement A is correct.

Statement B: Second mantra starts with "yaḥ pṛthivīṃ...".
The second stanza (2.12.2) begins: "yaḥ pṛthivīṃ vyathamānām adṛṃhat yaḥ parvatān prakupitān aramṇāt...".
(He who fixed the quaking earth and stabilized the agitated mountains...).
Thus, Statement B is correct.

Statement C: Third mantra starts with "yam sma prcchanti...".
Actually, "yaṃ sma pṛcchanti kuha seti ghoram..." is the fifth stanza (2.12.5).
The third stanza (2.12.3) starts with: "yo hatvāhim ariṇāt sapta sindhūn...".
(He who having slain the dragon released the seven rivers...).
Thus, Statement C is incorrect.

Statement D: Fifth mantra starts with "yam krandasi...".
Actually, "yaṃ krandasī saṃyatī vihvayete..." is the sixth stanza (2.12.6).
As seen above, the fifth stanza starts with "yam sma prcchanti".
Thus, Statement D is incorrect.

Conclusion: Statements A and B are correct.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Statements A and B are correct. Thus, the correct option is (2).