Question

Which is the second Brahmana of the Rigveda?

• A. Taittiriya Brahmana
• B. Gopatha Brahmana
• C. Tandya Brahmana
• D. Shankhayana Brahmana

Hint:

To efficiently memorize Vedic Brahmanas, associate Rigveda with 'AS' (Aitareya, Shankhayana). For the exam, remember that Shankhayana and Kaushitaki are synonymous. If one name is missing in the options, look for the other.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Brahmanas are an integral part of the Vedic corpus, following the Samhitas. They are primarily composed in prose and serve as extensive ritual handbooks. Their main objective is to explain the practical application of Vedic hymns in sacrificial ceremonies (Yajnas). Each of the four Vedas has its own set of Brahmanas associated with its different schools or branches (Shakhas). For the Rigveda, the two primary extant Brahmanas are the Aitareya and the Shankhayana. Understanding this classification is fundamental for any student of Vedic literature, as it helps categorize the ritualistic and symbolic evolution of early Indian thought.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Rigveda, being the oldest and most geographically expansive of the Vedas, originally had twenty-one branches according to some traditions, though only a few remain today. The interpretation of its hymns for ritual purposes is preserved in two major texts:

1. The Aitareya Brahmana: This is the largest and most widely studied Brahmana of the Rigveda. It is traditionally attributed to Mahidasa Aitareya. It is divided into 40 chapters (Adhyayas), grouped into eight books called 'Panchikas' (units of five). This text focuses heavily on the duties of the 'Hotr' priest (the reciter for the Rigveda) and provides the blueprint for the 'Agnishtoma' sacrifice and the 'Rajasuya' ceremony. Because it is the most prominent, it is usually listed first in the Vedic sequence.

2. The Shankhayana Brahmana: This is universally recognized as the second Brahmana of the Rigveda. It is also frequently referred to as the Kaushitaki Brahmana, named after the sage Kaushitaki. It consists of 30 chapters. While it covers many of the same topics as the Aitareya, it is often noted for being more systematic and concise in its ritual instructions. It provides a detailed account of the 'Haviryajnas' (stationary sacrifices) and the various forms of the Soma sacrifice. It represents the Shankhayana branch of the Rigveda, which, while similar to the Shakala branch (represented by Aitareya), has distinct nuances in its liturgical application.

3. Comparative Analysis of Options:
- Taittiriya Brahmana: This text belongs to the Krishna (Black) Yajurveda. It is unique because it is mixed with Samhita elements and focuses on the 'Adhvaryu' priest's duties.
- Gopatha Brahmana: This is the only surviving Brahmana of the Atharvaveda. It is relatively younger than the others and emphasizes the role of the 'Brahman' priest.
- Tandya Brahmana: Also known as the 'Panchavimsha Brahmana', it is the most important Brahmana of the Samaveda, detailing the melodies (Samans) used to chant at sacrifices.

In competitive exams like the NTA NET, the question of "second" usually refers to the chronological or traditional listing order. Since Aitareya is always primary, Shankhayana is the definitive answer. The depth of this Brahmana includes philosophical speculations that eventually led to the Kaushitaki Upanishad. Understanding these connections is vital for a comprehensive grasp of Vedic chronology.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The second Brahmana of the Rigveda is the Shankhayana Brahmana. Therefore, option (D) is correct.