Vedic Index of Names and Subjects v1.c3.854

v1.c3.854

Ahi.—This word occurs frequently from the Rigveda¹ onwards to denote ‘snake.’ Reference is several times² made to its casting its slough. Mention is also made of the serpent’s peculiar movement,³ which earns for it the designation⁴ of ‘the toothed rope’ (datvatī rajjuḥ). The poisonous character of its bite is spoken of,⁵ as well as the torpidity of the reptile in winter, when it creeps into the earth.⁶ The cast skin is used as an amulet against highwaymen.⁷ Mention is made of a mythical horse, Paidva, which the Aśvins gave to Pedu as a protection against snakes,⁸ and which is invoked as a destroyer of serpents.⁹ The ichneumon (*nakula*) is regarded as their deadly enemy, and as immune against their poison through the use of a healing plant,¹⁰ while men kill them with sticks¹¹ or strike off their heads.¹²