[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.c3.854 # Vedic Index of Names and Subjects v1.c3.854 Vedic Index of Names and Subjects v1.c3.854 - **Language:** English ### [v1.c3.854](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.reference.macdonell-keith-1912.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 - [Previous: v1.c3.853](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.reference.macdonell-keith-1912.v1.c3.853) - [Next: v1.c3.855](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.reference.macdonell-keith-1912.v1.c3.855) - [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.c3.854](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.reference.macdonell-keith-1912.v1.c3.854) · Pramāṇa