Question

Which, among the following, is not included in list of Vedanga (Limbs of Veda)?

• A. Metre (Chhanda)
• B. Grammar (Vyakarana)
• C. Logic (Tarka)
• D. Astronomy (Jyotisha)

Hint:

Six Vedangas:
• Shiksha
• Kalpa
• Vyakarana
• Nirukta
• Chhanda
• Jyotisha Remember: Tarka belongs to Indian philosophy, not Vedanga.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: Vedangas are auxiliary disciplines developed for the proper understanding and preservation of the Vedas. The word “Vedanga” literally means: \[ \text{Veda} + \text{Anga} = \text{Limbs of the Veda} \] These subjects were considered essential for:
• correct pronunciation,
• interpretation,
• ritual performance,
• and preservation of Vedic knowledge. There are six Vedangas in total.

Step 1: Understanding the six Vedangas. The six Vedangas are:
• Shiksha (Phonetics)
• Kalpa (Rituals)
• Vyakarana (Grammar)
• Nirukta (Etymology)
• Chhanda (Metre)
• Jyotisha (Astronomy/Astrology) These disciplines supported the study and transmission of Vedic literature.

Step 2: Examining the given options one by one.
• Option (A) Metre (Chhanda): Chhanda is one of the six Vedangas and deals with Vedic metres and poetic structure.
• Option (B) Grammar (Vyakarana): Vyakarana is also one of the six Vedangas and focuses on Sanskrit grammar.
• Option (C) Logic (Tarka): Tarka or logic is an important branch of Indian philosophy, but it is not included among the six Vedangas. Therefore, this option is correct.
• Option (D) Astronomy (Jyotisha): Jyotisha is one of the Vedangas and deals with astronomical calculations and ritual timings.

Step 3: Importance of Vedangas in ancient India. Vedangas helped preserve:
• the accuracy of Vedic recitation,
• ritual correctness,
• and linguistic purity of sacred texts. They also contributed significantly to:
• Sanskrit grammar,
• astronomy,
• mathematics,
• and literary traditions.

Step 4: Final conclusion. Since Tarka (Logic) is not one of the six Vedangas, the correct answer is: \[ \boxed{\text{Logic (Tarka)}} \]