[Pramāṇa](https://indike.org/pramana/) › [Studies](https://indike.org/pramana/ins) › [Reference works](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.reference) › [Vedic Index of Names and Subjects](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.reference.macdonell-keith-1912) › v1.c3.278 # Vedic Index of Names and Subjects v1.c3.278 Vedic Index of Names and Subjects v1.c3.278 - **Language:** English ### [v1.c3.278](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.reference.macdonell-keith-1912.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 - [Previous: v1.c3.277](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.reference.macdonell-keith-1912.v1.c3.277) - [Next: v1.c3.279](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.reference.macdonell-keith-1912.v1.c3.279) - [Up: v1.c3](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.reference.macdonell-keith-1912.v1.c3) --- Source: [https://indike.org/pramana/ins.reference.macdonell-keith-1912.v1.c3.278](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.reference.macdonell-keith-1912.v1.c3.278) · Pramāṇa