73 pages • 2 hours read
The Rig Veda: An Anthology
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Book Brief
352
Book • Nonfiction
Ancient India • Vedic Period
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Rig Veda: An Anthology, translated by Wendy Doniger, is a selection of 108 hymns from an ancient Sanskrit collection of religious poetry, praising Bronze Age Hindu gods, describing rituals and sacrifices, and meditating on the cosmos and divine-human relationships. Composed between 1400-900 BCE and orally transmitted for a millennium, it provides insights into early Indian mythology, philosophy, and social life.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Fantastical
Inspirational
Serene
Reviews & Readership
2,006 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
Critics praise Wendy Doniger's translation of the Rig Veda for its scholarly rigor and accessibility. Her nuanced interpretation breathes life into ancient hymns, though some purists argue her modern perspectives impose on the original text. Overall, Doniger's work bridges centuries, offering an engaging gateway to Vedic tradition.
Who Should Read Rig Veda?
A reader captivated by ancient Indian spirituality, mythology, and poetry would enjoy Rig Veda by Anonymous, translated by Wendy Doniger. Similar audiences also appreciate texts such as The Bhagavad Gita and The Odyssey, for their profound exploration of human nature and the divine.
2,006 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
352
Book • Nonfiction
Ancient India • Vedic Period
Adult
18+ years
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