A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.168

c5.168

ATHARVAN. Name of a priest mentioned in the *Rig-veda*, where he is represented as having “drawn forth” fire and to have “offered sacrifice in early times.” He is mythologically represented as the eldest son of Brahmā, to whom that god revealed the Brahma-vidyā (knowledge of God), as a Prajāpati, and as the inspired author of the fourth Veda. At a later period he is identified with Angiras. His descendants are called Atharvanas, and are often associated with the Angirasas.