Vedic Index of Names and Subjects v2.c4.s2.425

v2.c4.s2.425

Learning is expected even from persons not normally competent as teachers, such as the Carakas, who are recognized in the Śatapatha Brāhmaṇa⁸³ as possible sources of information. Here, too, may be mentioned the cases of Brahmins learning from princes, though their absolute value is doubtful, for the priests would naturally represent their patrons as interested in their sacred science: it is thus not necessary to see in these notices any real and independent study on the part of the Kṣatriyas.⁸⁴ Yājñavalkya learnt from Janaka,⁸⁵ Uddālaka Āruṇi and two other Brahmins from Pravāhaṇa Jaivali,⁸⁶ Dṛptabālāki Gārgya from Ajātaśatru,⁸⁷ and five Brahmins under the lead of Aruṇa from Aśvapati Kaikeya.⁸⁸ A few notices show the real educators of thought: wandering scholars went through the country⁸⁹ and engaged in disputes and discussions in which a prize was staked by the disputants.⁹⁰ Moreover, kings like Janaka offered rewards to the most learned of the Brahmins;⁹¹ Ajātaśatru was jealous of his renown, and imitated his generosity. Again, learned women are several times mentioned in the Brāhmaṇas.⁹²