The Religion and Philosophy of the Veda and Upanishads v2.c30.s15.11

v2.c30.s15.11

The Rigveda ³ clearly knows this greatest of all Vedic sacrifices, though it is certain that the holocaust of victims was not then usual; only a goat appears to lead the way for the horse, and, though this is not conclusive, still it makes it doubtful whether the early ritual had the large number of victims offered. The victims too seem to be led round the fire, not *vice versa*. But it is clear that the offering was already a Soma sacrifice, and that in essence the rite was known : reference is also made to the use of gold and the cloths for decking the steed.