Vedic Metre in its Historical Development c17.s2.3

c17.s2.3

262. The ritual practices which are fundamental to the Rigveda appear to be essentially older than any beliefs in gods, heroes, or spirits which may be adduced from time to time in explanation of them. The kindling of the sacred fire before dawn may have been originally an act of sympathetic magic calculated to ensure the return of daylight, and therefore as practical in its aim as the kindling of fire to be a source of light or warmth in the house, or a means of warning off thieves and beasts of prey. The preparation of the sacred drink, originally mead and in a later form Soma, was an even more direct means of strengthening the clan by raising the spirits of its warriors, and making welcome the visitor who might some day fight on his hosts’ side. Throughout the Rigveda the ‘priests’ are primarily expert craftsmen, skilled in the kindling of the fire or the preparation of the nectar in accordance with ancient rules: a third attainment, the poetic inspiration which finds expression in chant and recitation, necessary accompaniments of either of the primeval ceremonies, is perhaps of later date, but reaches almost equal importance.