Sambodhi 1979 Vol 08

SR No.: 520758
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Dalsukh Malvania, H C Bhayani, Nagin J Shah
Publisher: L D Indology Ahmedabad
Publication Year: 1979
Total Pages: 392
Language: English, Sanskrit, Prakrit, Gujarati
Classification: Magazine, India_Sambodhi, & India
File Size: 8 MB

Page 80

A Note on Satamanam
Bhavati
79
have sacrificial utility and sociological importance. Veda as such is abundent with expressions that have grown into significance. For example, the famous gāyatri Mantra (RV 3. 62. 10) owes its popularity chiefly because of its meaning and the combination of the words.
The vinivoga in the paddhati in respect of satamānam bhavati is simple. After due utterance of this mantra, the Akşata are sprinkled over those to be blessed. Here the akşata are symbolic. They stand for immortality and permanence and at the same time utility. Akşatas and the utterence result into fulfilment. Elsewhere the SB explains that the term śatam connotes fullness (pürnam) whereby Purnată is very well markedout correspondingly.
Like RV, YV too could boast of remarkble passages like one under discussion now. These refer to the objectives and attainment of Man. A careful study of the YV educates one to value the Veda as an invaluable source of knowledge and wisdom leading to happiness. AV too contains several verses and expressions that claim importance to Mankind from many points of view. The Prithivi-sūkta occurring in the 12 kända of AV is a known piece for National Spirit and grandeur.
As a result of the discussion, the following may be interesting.
1. satamānam bhavati is a poetic piece in prose occuring only in the TS of the KYV. Originally this is found in a Kámyeşți that is performed for the cure of illness and prolonging of life and powers of Man on earth.
2. This expression is repeated two more times in the TS itself but in the context of some sacrifice where particular soma-libations are made.
3. As per the passage it is established that hundred is a standard measure and that to be corresponding to several aspects of Man's life.
4. This passage is unique to TS only while the idea is common and found in other vedic texts.
5. It is possible to say that the importance of this passage lies in the meaning and context of the mantra pointed out in the YV itself. In the traditions Akşatas have replaced the articles of gold, and clarified butter utilised in that sacrifical context.
NOTES
Paper presented to AIOC, Poona 1978, 1 Satāyur vai puruṣaḥ satam java etc., are the expressions which speak of length
of life of man. For more references regarding length of life of man, see Vedic Concordance; BLOOMFIELD.