Question

It is said that the Indo-Aryans were pastoral people. This statement is borne out by the fact that:

• A. There are many references to the cow in Rig-Veda.
• B. Gifts made to priests were usually cows.
• C. The Aryans used milk products.
• D. Most of the wars were fought for the sake of cattle.

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (B), (D)

The correct options are
A There are many references to the cow in Rig-Veda.
B Gifts made to priests were usually cows.
D Most of the wars were fought for the sake of cattle.

The Indo-Aryans had several references to the cow in the Rig Veda:

• One of the epithets of the god Indra was gopati i.e., lord of cattle.
• The tribal chief was known as janasya gopa. Gojit meant winner of cows.
• By this, we can understand that most of the battles were fought for stealing and protecting the cattle.
• The priests received cows as gifts from the kings. This is called 'Godhaan'. Go means cow and dhaan means gift.