Aspects of Bio-Diversity in Vedic Texts

Preamble:

Since time immemorial, human intelligence was looking out for various aspects of life forces around him. From time to time, this casual look out led to finer observation and transformed into classification. This kind of Classification paved way for further research to be stated as theorem in order to benefit Human Benefits. Even the research, that appeared beneficial to other species of creatures, had its roots in the anticipated benefits to humans, by domestication or otherwise.

References and Objective

The earliest recorded statements of our ancestors in respect with these observations are found aplenty in many of the Vedic Verses. Broadly, these references pertain to ritualistic Utility. However, this classification is a pointer towards the fine intelligence we inherited from the previous generations.

Another oft – overlooked doctrine imbibed in these observations; is the dictum to preserve the ecology and bio-diversity. Instead of dealing with these references, from a myopic purview of nomadic life style, under-development of agrarian practices and stone-aged non-vegetarianism; it could be highly rewarding for a true researcher to look out for the connection with the past, apart from the main objective of unearthing the neglected benefits from these species enlisted in the scriptures. In addition, an element of rapid deterioration of bio-diversity (or lack of it) could also be determined, from the perspective of ecological perspective.

Classification

The references can be classified into the following categories.

1. Species of Animals in the Fifth and Sixth Chapters in the Fifth Section of Yajurveda Samhita

2. Physical Characteristics of Animals and subsequent benefits; in the First Chaper in the Second Section of Yajurveda Samhita

3. Microbial references

4. Species of Grains in 7^th Chapter in the 4^th Section of Samhita and in Ashwamedha Episode (8^th and 9^th Chapters in the 3^rd Section of Brahamana)

5. Metals and Metallurgy in the 7^th Chapter in the 4^th Section of Samhita

6. Benefits arising out of different states and locations of water isotopes in Aaruna Ketuka Chayana (1^st Chapter of Aaranyaka) and Ashwamedha Episode (4^th Chapter of 7^th Section and 8^th and 9^th Chapters in the 3^rd Section of Brahamana)

7. Types of Darbha Grass and the effects on Human Body during various types of rituals (Daivika – Shrouta, Smaarta & Paitruka)

8. Animal Anatomy as discussed in Soutraamani Episode (6^th Chapter in the Second Section of Braahamana)

9. Application of Plants, Herbs, Roots and Germs/ Bacterium to induce physical reaction during rituals, explained by Sutrakaras, especially Aapastamba, apart from Aayurvedic Proponents such as Charaka etc. with specific intent.

10. Organic Chemical Reaction arising out of ingredients used in daily Puja, Homa, Cooking

11. Choice of Wood for combustion and non-combustive usage during rituals, for specific benefits

12. References contained in ancillary Texts such as Vruksha Aayurveda, Gaja Aayurveda etc.

Scope

The academic background coupled with the practical experience of the researcher/ observer is certain to play a significant role in dealing with these references. However, the examination of these aspects are bound to result in enchanting kaleidoscopic findings, as the generations are exposed to newer realms of scientific advancement.

Absence of Correlation between Nomenclature and Description

Nomenclature and Description (Naama – Roopa) are inseparable aspects in defining the identity of any being. The issue of Linguistic Antiquity, and absence of Common parameters, (connecting strings) to correlate the available references with the modern terminology is crippling the efforts by the miniscule community of (Indology) researchers.

ü To bridge the gap, Department of Aayush, Department of Science and Technology along with Academics in Public Sector or Private Sector should join hands to establish an International platform to share the findings.

ü Establishment of standards to compile the references to correlate with the current day Latin Terms is the first priority.

ü Constitution of a group of scholars from Linguistics, Biology and allied fields, is deemed as the first step in the right direction, apart from compiling the information about Research, undertaken in this direction so far.

Stage for Professional Research

ü Setting up this stage could enable serious professional research to examine the references for their utility towards betterment of Humanity.

मंगळं महत्

The author may be contacted at sarvaveda@gmail.com