The Aryans in Hindu Scriptures: Unveiling the Symbolic Meaning

The concept of Aryans and their mention in Hindu scriptures is a complex and often misunderstood topic. This article aims to provide clarity on the symbolic meanings behind these references, as described in the Rig Veda and Upanishads, and challenges the western scholarly interpretations that have been influenced by specific historical contexts.

Introduction: The Role of Sayana in Translating Ancient Texts

The interpretations of Rig Veda and Upanishads, particularly regarding the term 'Arya,' have been significantly shaped by the work of Sayana, a 14th-century Sanskrit scholar. Although Sayana was a brilliant scholar, he faced challenges in accurately translating the symbolic language of these ancient texts. In this process, crucial symbolic meanings were often lost or misrepresented, leading to confusion and misinterpretation.

The Misinterpretation of Key Terms by Western Scholars

Western scholars, with their backgrounds in Greek and Roman cultures, often misread the texts and applied their preconceived notions to the translations. Key terms such as 'Usha,' 'Gomati/Ashwamati,' and 'Angirasa' were misinterpreted. For instance, the divine 'Usha,' which symbolizes the divine, inner, and spiritual dawn, was translated as 'Cow-Giver and horse-giver.' Similarly, 'Angirasa,' representing a mortal tied to ignorance, was mistakenly translated as a human sacrifice. These errors stem from the translation process that did not account for the symbolic nature of the language.

The Western Interpretation: From Pagan to Barbarian

The western scholars, influenced by their Christian background and scientific advancements, readily labeled the Rig Veda and Upanishads as belonging to 'Pagan and Barbarian' cultures. Their interpretations were heavily influenced by the socio-political and economic conditions of their time, leading to a skewed understanding of these texts.

The True Meaning of 'Arya' in Hindu Scriptures

The term 'Arya' itself is derived from the root word meaning 'to till, to search, white without blemish.' It extended to mean 'noble, the beginner, farmer, wise, worthy,' and many more. In this context, the 'Aryans' referred to the rishis as 'tillers of the field of life that hides the Divine in its darkness, ignorance, and death.' This interpretation is further clarified in the Bhagavad Gita, where Krishna explains the concepts of 'Kshetra' and 'Kshetrajna.' These terms refer to the field of life and the knower of the field, which is not interpreted as the material body but as the divine knowledge within.

Conclusion: The Inspired Texts of Aryans, Our Ancestors

The ancient texts are not something that 'got into' the Hindu scriptures; they are inspired texts from the Aryans, our forefathers, the great heralds, and harbingers of the path of immortality. These texts describe the transformation of ordinary human beings into supermental beings through the practice of life as a 'Arya'—untainted and pure, embodying the divine.

The key takeaway is that the term 'Arya' has nothing to do with a racial or cultural designation. It represents a spiritual journey and a way of living that is alive and relevant to this day. To truly understand the power and depth of these texts, one does not need to know the meanings of Vedic verses but to chant them with clear pronunciation, thereby experiencing the power and light they represent.

For those interested in delving deeper into these ancient hymns, I encourage you to explore the provided link for full translations and meanings. These texts serve as a powerful reminder of the spiritual path and the divine within.