Question

Discuss any three characteristics of the religions of Aryans.

Answer 1

Instructions:

The answer to this question can be given by explaining the following points:

• The worship of Nature-Gods
• The knowledge of one God
• Yajnas and sacrifices

Solution:

1. The Aryans worshipped Nature-God, which included the sun, wind, earth, rain, lightning, rivers and others. Varuna and Indra were their chief gods.
2. The Aryans believed in monotheism, that is, to believe in one God though they worshipped several Nature-Gods. Several hymns in Rig Veda describe the Supreme God by names like Indra, Varun and Agni.
3. Yajnas, or burning incense, were among the major religious duties of the Aryans, which were performed to please God. Offerings like ghee, milk or rice were made in the fire. Sometimes, on special occasions, animal sacrifices were also given as a part of offerings during the yajna.