which is the oldest veda - #23540
I am trying to understand which is the oldest veda because I've been diving into Ayurveda lately. It's kinda fascinating, honestly! A friend recommended I read some ancient texts, and I've been confused about where to start. I came across mentions of the four Vedas, and I’m just curious—like, which is the oldest veda? Is it the Rigveda or is there something even older that I’m missing? Also, the more I explore, the more questions I have about how these texts are connected to Ayurveda. My mind is racing with info, and I really want to get the basics right. I always thought the Vedas were just these unapproachable ancient scriptures but they're really just the foundation for everything. Any clarity on which is the oldest veda would be super appreciated; I feel like this could change my whole understanding of Ayurvedic practices. Ugh, I just wanna make sure I’m getting the real deal and not some watered-down version! Thanks in advance!
100% Anonymous
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
The Rigveda is indeed the oldest of the four Vedas. It’s often considered to be more than 3,000 years old, dating back to around 1500 BCE. Composed in ancient Sanskrit, the Rigveda is a collection of hymns, mantras, and praises dedicated to various deities. Its focus is heavily on ritual and the cosmic order, and lays the groundwork for Hindu philosophy and practice.
Though the Rigveda itself doesn’t deal with Ayurveda directly, Ayurvedic principles start to become evident later in the Atharvaveda. It’s considered the fourth Veda and is known for its extensive references to remedies for various ailments, making it significant in the context of Ayurveda. The Atharvaveda includes hymns and practices related to health, longevity, and healing. It’s often seen as laying the foundational thoughts that were expanded on in Ayurveda.
Your curiosity about these texts can actually enrich your understanding of Ayurveda immensely. Since Ayurveda focuses on balance and health through the harmonization of the body, mind, and spirit, its roots are deeply connected to Vedic principles. Concepts like the tridoshas are influenced by the philosophical and cosmological ideas found within these Vedic texts.
If you want to get a deeper understanding of Ayurveda through ancient texts, starting with the Atharvaveda along with some foundational Ayurvedic texts like Charaka Samhita might be beneficial. While diving into these ancient scriptures can seem like a lot at first, approaching them gradually and drawing parallels to modern Ayurvedic practices can be illuminating. You are indeed on a fascinating journey, so take your time and steadily explore how these rich traditions can unfold and enlighten your path to understanding Ayurveda.

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.