Nirukta and the Vedic interpretation (study)
by Shruti S. Pradhan | 1964 | 116,890 words
This essay studies the role of Yaska’s Nirukta in Vedic interpretation focusing on his contributions to understanding the Rigveda. This study further examines Yaska’s technique of using etymology to confirm meanings assigned by traditional Nighantus (Vedic glossaries), highlighting his subjective approach. While modern methods combine context with ...
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575 Final Translation: Approach and touch (or embrace) me on every part (lit. closely). Do not think my (hair) to be few. And indeed I have sufficient hair (on my private parts) like the sheep of the Gandharis. Notes: This stanza is spoken by a maid-servant who was given as a part of Daksina to the poet by his donor. She means to say that she has attained puberty and hence is fit for giving pleasure to the poet, who has received her. dabhra: small (Nighantu III.2, p. 212). 12. Passage Quoted: Rigveda I.27.13, Nirukta III.20 (p. 247). Translation According To Yaska: A bow to the great, a bow to the small, a bow to the young, a bow to the elders. Let us worship the gods when we can. May I not take away the praise of (the patron) who is greater to me, O Gods. Final Translation: A bow to the great, a bow to the small, a bow to the young, a bow to the elders. Let us worship the gods when we can. May I not take away (i.e. anticipate) the praise of the greater (patron) of mine, O Gods. Notes: c: means that the poet does not want to anticipate the