Sambodhi 1979 Vol 08

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

Page 77

C. L. Prabhakar
In Indian Tradition, KYV dominated in a sense that this Veda is largely understood and followed. For example, a great length of literature flows forth in mentioning and elucidating the practical life and philosophy in accordance with the tradition of KYV. For example, Rāmāyaṇa and the characters depicted therein are adopted to the tradition of KYV5. Likewise there are many other literary works that adopt the YV system. So in view of this popularity certain stock phrases and passages of TS should have acclaimed a greater coinage and circulation. The present passage under discussion is one among such popular pieces in the Indian Tradition. It could invariably be seen that this passage is recited at first in a context of bestowing blessings. Rather such a popularity of this poetic piece urged (the present writer to open a discussion on this passage and passages of like that grew into importance in the Indian Tradition.
AV which is people's Veda recognised the idea that life must extend upto hundred years; autumns/ springs/ etc. for Man and therefore it has rites that helped towards such attainments. There are as many as twenty three pratīkas that begin with the term 'Satam' with reference to life, plants, oşadhis, powers etc. Even RV contains many expressions. As a result, the term satam as such required an independent consideration and that would be takan up later. Moreover, the whole system of sacrifice and allied sacrificial rites aimed at ensuring a long life for man on earth. An idea of that nature is explicitly portrayed in the expression.' satamānam bhavati ......
In the section below, a discussion on this passage with 'reference to its occurrences is made. This is supposed to provide a clue to imagine reasons for the importance of this expression.
II
A. That passage in Krsna Yajurveda Satamānam bhavati.... is found at three places in the TS. It is originally found in the Brāhmaṇa (2. 3. 11. 10 ) of the optional rite viz. āyurdrogya işti or ayurārogyamayor işti, a rite that helps to eradicate illness and to win life, health and prosperity. This prose piece is also repeated in the context of offering soma-libation called amśu graha (3. 3. 4. 8) in the Agniştoma sacrifice. At 6.6. 10. 9. which is a soma mantra brāhmaṇa, this passage is repeated once again.
This expression indicates the blessings of long life and active powers correspondingly to the sacrificer. Further such a long life, sustained by hundred powers, would be fulfilment and eventful also.
(1) 2. 3. 11. 10. Here, with the mantra. Prānosi svähä (TS 2. 3. 10. 4) the sacrificer drinks clarified butter (ghrtan mispibati) in the rite viz. Ayuşkāmești,