This contributions examines a large survey of Vedic sources which deal with the Vrātyaṣṭomas. On the basis of texts which are apparently clear testimonies of a secondary Brāhmanically reformed tradition, the article proposes a tentative reading between the lines, in order to highlight an earlier stage of the Vrātyastoma. Accordingly, this rite might have been intended — on the speculative background of a special heroic scope for having access to heaven as gods — not only to forge an alliance between the members of the vrātya-brotherhood (and to appoint a leader), but also to redistribute the booty at the end of expeditions.

Aims and functions of Vrātyastoma performances: a historical appraisal

PONTILLO, TIZIANA
2015-01-01

Abstract

This contributions examines a large survey of Vedic sources which deal with the Vrātyaṣṭomas. On the basis of texts which are apparently clear testimonies of a secondary Brāhmanically reformed tradition, the article proposes a tentative reading between the lines, in order to highlight an earlier stage of the Vrātyastoma. Accordingly, this rite might have been intended — on the speculative background of a special heroic scope for having access to heaven as gods — not only to forge an alliance between the members of the vrātya-brotherhood (and to appoint a leader), but also to redistribute the booty at the end of expeditions.
2015
978-81-246-0830-2
Proto Indoaryan I culture; Brahmana sources; Vratya
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11584/55573
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