~ Nibbananupassana @ MV ~: GAQ BP 101 - 15th January 2012 (Sunday)

Listening is important in studying the Vedas. Vedic language is similar to Sanskrit Language not is not same as Sanskrit Language
Sanskrit is derived from Vedas
Samhitas (collections)

Brahmana hold religious performances and explain about Brahma
Aranyaka explain about forest practices
Upanishadas are the secret teachings and disciples must sit down near the teachers to listen to the teachings
Each of the Veda books are divided into the above 3 divisions - Brahmana, Aranyaka & Upanishads; thus total, there are 12 divisions
They believe that all these knowledges come from divine revalation by God
They have strong confidence and believe totally in the Vedas
Sruti means listening
Indian philosophy comes from Veda Books
Kalpa Sutras are not created by God; they are man-made based on rituals
There are 3 kinds of Kalpa Sutras

Vedanga Veda explains about soul and Brahma
Veda books talk about God, Varuna, Indra & Agni
Asvamedha Sacrifice (horse sacrifice) -> this is done when a priest wants to become king
Rajasuya Sacrifice -> done during the King's coronation and its purpose is symbolic for success in battle for the King
Sautramani Sacrifice -> Sacrifice liquour to God and the purpose is to fulfill one's wishes
Sarvamedha Sacrifice -> this encompases giving all to the priest who dwells in the forest
Agnicayana Sacrifice -> Kill 5 animals and put their heads & body under water; purpose is to show appreciation io Brahmin's practice
Purushamedha Sacrifice -> Sacrifice a human for wishes to come true
Parvargya Sacrifice -> make a fake human and cut it
Soma Sacrifice -> contest of drinking performed by warriors and kings
Agnihotra -> keep the fire burning from morning till evening and worship the fire
Darsapurnamasa Sacrifice -> new moon and full moon sacrifice; meant for dead relatives

~ Nibbananupassana @ MV ~