The Religion of the Veda: The Ancient Religion of India (from Rig-Veda to Upanishads) c8.61

c8.61

We have seen¹ that it reaches back at least to 1600 B.C., and yet, notwithstanding its early date, it is superior to any of the earlier conceptions of the remaining Indo-European peoples. As far as the Veda is concerned, it presents itself under the threefold aspect of cosmic order, correct and fitting cult of the gods, and moral conduct of man.² We have in connection with the *ṛta* a pretty complete System of Ethics, a kind of Counsel of Perfection.