Vedic Index of Names and Subjects v1.c3.278

v1.c3.278

Atharvan.—The name in the singular denotes the head of a semi-divine family of mythical priests,¹ of whom nothing historical can be said. In the plural the family as a whole is meant. In a few places an actual family seems to be referred to. Thus, for instance, they are mentioned as recipients of gifts in the Dānastuti² (‘Praise of Gifts’), of Aśvattha’s generosity; their use of milk mingled with honey in the ritual is referred to;³ and a cow that miscarries (ava-tokā) from accident is dedicated to the Atharvans, according to the Taittirīya Brāhmaṇa.⁴