Sambodhi 1977 Vol 06

Author(s): Dalsukh Malvania, H C Bhayani, Nagin J Shah
Publisher: L D Indology Ahmedabad

Page 15

Vedic Mitra
aspect of Aditya, a discussion on Mitra might, in other words, mean Aditya's mahat only. Mitra finds importance in YV as an independent deity. But that stature is not as emphatic as Rudra" or Prajapati in that Veda.
Mitra injures none. He is harmless. He is a benefic deity in YV. His blessings are invariably sought in cach sacrifice in the YV. Even in the instance of certain Kämyeştis (optional rites) in the Taittiriya Samhita in addition to the major rites, Mitra is recognised and invoked. AV involves Mitra at certain rites and attributes praises and functions to him. Mitra is mentioned under charms and conjurations in AV although basically the deity is composed for doing favours. However, in nutshell, it may be said that Mitra's quality viz. benevolance received repeated mention in the other samhitas of Veda. In YV, specifically Mitra's looks (caksus) are benignant and hence proverbial. There is an exclusive rites in YV after the name of Mitra. This is designed after the suggestion of Prajapati for obtaining Mitra's grace. Mitra, by definition is a friend, an envoy to the devotees. Its etymological sense also amounts to the same.
In YV Mitra is regarded as Earth (Prthivi). Mitra ascended along with Prthivi to a strongfold wherewith he extends protection to devotee. The meaning of this reference seems to be subtle. But it may be that, on account of the sacrifices performed on earth, Mitra receives strength staying in celestial region and as a result, he becomes strong to protect. It may be so beacuse after all sacrifice is the very sap of all deities. The same is true for a sacrificer. A king, it is said in YV, who performs a sacrifice (vajapeya) shall grow stronger.
There is another reference that Aditya is Mitra as he rises and appears in the dawn (AV 13.3.13). That is, the sun in the dawn represents the aspects of Mitra. Mitra, therefore is Aditya at Morning. Accordingly Mitra is a deity for day (ahah). Mitra's upasthanalo (worship) at dawn is recomm. ended in the Kalpa texts. As such Varuna stands in contradistinction to Mitra even in YV. Varuna is revered in the night. 12 Varuna stands for evening and night. The combination Mitra-Varuna seems to be potential enough 6 "Rudra in the YV", by the author, QJMS, 1969.
7 One who is desirous of rain, food, eyes, longevity, wealth etc. are advised to perform rites titled by their such wants (TS 2.1.7, 8, 9, 2.3.8, 11 etc. ).
8 Mitravindeşti: See EGGELING, SBE; SB Vol. V, pp. pp. 62-5.
9 Brhad devata 2.49.15; also see S. VARMA The etymologies of Yaska", pp. 81.
10 A Vau reveres Mitra with RV 3.59.6 in the Prataḥ Sandhyopäsana.
11
"Religion and Mythology of Brahmanas", G. V. DEVASTHALI, Poona pp. 67.
12 Likewise he reveres Varuna with RV. 1.25.19 (VS 21.1) in the Sayam Sandhyopāsanā.
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