Vaisampayana

The importance of Vaisampayana in contemporary society is undeniable. Whether it is a current topic, a prominent figure, a cultural phenomenon or a fundamental concept, Vaisampayana plays a crucial role in our daily lives. In this article we will explore different aspects related to Vaisampayana, from its impact on the personal level to its influence on the global sphere. Through detailed analysis, we seek to understand the relevance and significance of Vaisampayana today, as well as its evolution over time. Likewise, we will examine its role in various contexts and its interaction with other elements of society. Through this journey, we hope to shed light on the importance and complexity of Vaisampayana in contemporary society.

Vaisampayana
Vaishampayana listens as Shaunaka recites the Mahabharata.
AffiliationRishi
TextsMahabharata, Harivamsa

Vaishampayana (Sanskrit: वैशंपायन, IAST: Vaiśaṃpāyana) is the traditional narrator of the Mahabharata, one of the two major Sanskrit epics of India.[1]

Legend

Vaishampayana is a renowned sage who is stated to be the original teacher of the Krishna Yajur-Veda:[2]

The great man of intellect Vaiśampāyana, the disciple of Vyāsa, divided the tree of Yajurveda into seven branches.

— Agni Purana, Chapter 150

The Ashvalayana Grihya Sutra mentions him as Mahabharatacharya. He is also mentioned in the Taittiriya Aranayaka and the Ashtadhyayi of Pāṇini.[3]

Vyasa is regarded to have taught the Mahabharata of 100,000 verses to Vaishampayana. He is regarded to have recited the epic to King Janamejaya at his sarpa satra (snake sacrifice).[4] The Harivamsha Purana is also recited by him, where he narrates the legend of Prithu's emergence from Vena.[5][6]

References

  1. ^ www.wisdomlib.org (28 January 2019). "Story of Vaiśampāyana". www.wisdomlib.org. Retrieved 5 November 2022.
  2. ^ www.wisdomlib.org (13 November 2021). "Names of different Manus, different Sages and others [Chapter 150]". www.wisdomlib.org. Retrieved 5 November 2022.
  3. ^ Raychaudhuri, H.C. (1972). Political History of Ancient India: From the Accession of Parikshit to the Extinction of the Gupta Dynasty, Calcutta: University of Calcutta, p.38
  4. ^ "The Mahabharata, Book 1:Adi Parva: Section I". sacred texts.
  5. ^ Bhāratatattva: Course in Indology : a Study Guide. Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture. 2006. p. 66. ISBN 978-81-87332-50-3.
  6. ^ Debroy, Bibek (9 September 2016). Harivamsha. Penguin UK. p. 32. ISBN 978-93-86057-91-4.

Further reading

  • Dowson's Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology


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