Environmental Philosophy in the Vedas: The Vedic Perspective on Nature, Ecology and the Environment

The Vedas, the ancient sacred books of India, provide comprehensive elucidation on the correlation between mankind and the natural realm. Environmental philosophy in the Vedas is more than just a resource for human use; it is a sacred reality deeply connected to life's essence. This comprehensive viewpoint emphasizes the interdependence of all living organisms and the fundamental balance between humans and the natural world.

The Vedas, ancient Indian teachings, are the fundamental texts of Hindu philosophy and spirituality. They offer a deep comprehension of all elements of existence, including our connection with the natural world. These ancient works, written thousands of years ago, provide excellent spiritual guidance and offer deep ecological wisdom that is particularly relevant in today's environmental calamities and sustainability initiatives.

In Vedic philosophy, nature is regarded with deep respect and reverence as both sacred and divine. The Vedas contain numerous hymns that praise the qualities of natural elements, including rivers, forests, mountains, and animals. The practice of deifying natural elements such as Agni (fire), Surya (sun), and Vayu (wind) creates a deep reverence for the environment. This underlying reverence emphasizes a view in which humans are an essential component of the natural world and not separate from or superior to it.

Vedic Environmental Philosophy

Rta (ऋत) (Cosmic Order) The concept of Rta pertains to the cosmic order. Rta (rta) is a fundamental concept in the Vedas, representing the intricate system that upholds the harmony and balance of the universe. The concept of natural law and a state of equilibrium that permeates every aspect of existence is reflected in Rta. Understanding and respecting the delicate equilibrium and structure of the natural world is essential in practising Rta.

Rigveda 1.22.18: Ṛtenṛtāṁ naṁrtam kṛṇvanti śarmiṇe, mīḷhuṣe rāyaskāme dhenavaḥ. "Truth and cosmic order are the keys to winning over the sun's milk-giving cows, who pour their milk upon those who adhere to these principles."

Rigveda 10.85.1: Rtasya hi srad avidan manaḥ, rtasya sadhamado vrate."Those who understand the sacred law of cosmic order, their minds are in harmony with Rta, and they act according to its mandate."

These verses highlight the importance of rta as a fundamental principle that guarantees the universe's balance and coherence, shedding light on the truth, underlying laws, and cosmic order.

Prithvi Sukta (Hymn to Earth)

The Prithvi Sukta, found in the Atharvaveda, is a devotional hymn dedicated to the Earth. The belief system reveres the Earth as a maternal figure and places great importance on living in harmonious coexistence with it. The hymn exemplifies a profound ecological awareness, honouring the Earth's fecundity, variety, and nourishing capability while advocating for her safeguarding and reverence.

Prithvi Sukta (Hymn to Earth) from the Atharvaveda, which venerates the Earth and emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with her:

Atharvaveda 12.1.12: "Mātā bhūmiḥ putrohaṁ pṛthivyāḥ, parjanyaḥ pitā sa u naḥ pipartu."Earth is my mother, and I am her son. May the rain-bearing heavens be kind to us."

Atharvaveda 12.1.1: Bhūmiṁ dyaur dadhaatu rtviyam, bhūmiṁ bhumiḥ saha sanasya yoṣaḥ. "May the Earth be always supported by the sky, and may the Earth support us with the nourishment it provides.

Atharvaveda 12.1.3: Pṛthivīm mātaram śivaṁ, hridayam yatra tishṭhati. "The Earth, our progenitor, is benevolent and magnanimous, and our emotions dwell within her."

The lyrics of the Prithvi Sukta demonstrate a profound respect for the Earth. They emphasize her status as a loving mother and underline the importance of coexisting harmoniously with nature, recalling the Earth's fertility, diversity, and sustaining capacity.

Ecological Principles in Vedic Texts

Sustainable Living

The Vedas promote environmental stewardship through minimal consumption, waste reduction, and reverence for all life forms. This approach closely aligns with contemporary concepts of sustainability, which emphasize the reduction of our ecological footprint and the prudent management of our financial resources.

the Vedas that advocate for sustainable living, minimal consumption, avoidance of waste, and reverence for all forms of life:

RigvedaRigveda 10.117.6: Ten tyaktena bhunjitha ma gridhah kasyasvid dhanam. "Enjoy life with renunciation; do not covet others' possessions.

YajurvedaYajurveda 40.1: Isha vasyam idam sarvam yat kincha jagatyam jagat; tena tyaktena bhunjitha ma gridhah kasyasvid dhanam. "This entire universe is filled with Divine presence; enjoy the blessings bestowed by God." Avoid desiring or craving for material possessions or wealth that others possess."

Atharvaveda 12.1.45: "Pṛithivīm dharayantīm dyāvāpṛithivī bahulām, anna-patnīm prthivīm mātarṁ pṛithivīm dharayiṣṇīm bhavāmi. "May the earth that holds people together, that has vast space and food, that is a mother and gives birth to so many kinds of life, grant us life without harm.”

Atharvaveda 3.30.8: Ma himsīt sarvabhūtāni; māśīrvadabhiṣecanaḥ. "Do not harm any living creature; treat them with compassion and care."

Rigveda 10.37.11: Sam gacchadhvam sam vadadhvam sam vo manāmsi jānathām; devā bhāgam yathā pūrve sanjānānā upāsate. "Move together in harmony; speak together in one voice; let your minds be in unison, as the gods of the ancient times cooperated with each other for the common good."

These verses encapsulate the principles of sustainable living, minimal consumption, waste reduction, and respect for all forms of life. They adhere to modern sustainability principles that promote minimizing our ecological footprint and coexisting harmoniously with the natural world.

Interconnectedness of Life

Vedic philosophy acknowledges the interconnectedness of all kinds of existence. This comprehensive perspective fosters ecological awareness and compassion for the environment. The Vedas advocate for a sense of responsibility and obligation towards nature by recognizing the interdependence of all living entities.

The Vedas reflect a holistic view of the interconnectedness of all life, promoting ecological awareness and compassion towards the environment:

Rigveda 10.191.4: Sangachhadhwam samvadadhwam sam vo manamsi janatam, Deva bhagam yatha purve sanjanana upasate. "Walk together in harmony; speak with one voice; be of one mind, as the gods of old cooperated with one another for the common good."

Yajurveda 36.17: "Mitraasyaaham chakshushaa sarvaani bhootaani sameekshe. Mitrasya chakshushaa sameekshe. Mitraasya chakshushaa sameekshe. "With the eyes of a friend, I behold all beings. With the eyes of a friend, I behold the universe. With the eyes of a friend, I behold everything."

Yajurveda 13.28: Samani prapah sushaha vah samani yoma akuti. Samani va akuti samani hridayani vah. Samanamastu vo mano yatha vah susahasti. "Drink the same water, breathe the same air, be together in mind and heart. Let our aspirations be in unison, and may we live together in harmony and mutual understanding."

Atharvaveda 12.1.12: Mātā bhūmiḥ putrohaṁ pṛthivyāḥ, parjanyaḥ pitā sa u naḥ pipartu. "Earth is my mother, and I am her son. May the rain-bearing heavens be kind to us."

Atharvaveda 1.32.4: Dyāvāpṛthivī janayan devā agre ya oṣadhīḥ prathamamānasṛjātaḥ. "May the original creators of the divine system of the natural order (Rita), as well as vegetation, planets and celestial spheres, protect us."

These poems demonstrate the Vedic philosophy of the interconnectedness of all living beings, advocating environmental awareness, conservation, and responsibility towards the natural world. They focus on the interdependence of all entities and the importance of harmonious coexistence with the environment.

Environmental Ethics

Dharma and Environmental Responsibility

Dharma is a core tenet of Vedic philosophy encompassing duties, ethical behaviour, and responsibility for one's actions. Within environmental ethics, dharma represents the ethical duty to safeguard and improve the natural environment. This responsibility extends beyond personal benefit and encompasses the well-being of all existence.

The Vedas incorporate the concept of dharma in relation to environmental preservation, emphasizing the need to save and improve the natural environment.

RigvedaRigveda 10.85.44: Mātā bhūmih putro aham prithivyah, parjanyah pita sa u naḥ pipartu. "The Earth is my mother, and I am her son. May the rain-bearing heavens be kind to us."

Atharvaveda 12.1.12: Mātā bhūmiḥ putrohaṁ pṛthivyāḥ, parjanyaḥ pitā sa u naḥ pipartu. "Earth is my mother, and I am her son. May the rain-bearing heavens be kind to us.

"Atharvaveda 12.1.35: Dyāvāpṛthivī janayan devā agre ya oṣadhīḥ prathamamānasṛjātaḥ. "He who first created the holy order of nature (Rta), and the plants, the earth, and the sky, may he protect us."

YajurvedaYajurveda 36.22: Prithivim dharmana dhritam. "The Earth is upheld by righteousness (Dharma).

"Yajurveda 13.47: Yajnena yajnam ayajanta devah tani dharmani prathama nyasan. They performed the sacrifice (yagya) by the sacrifice, and the gods placed those dharmas first.

Manusmriti 6.54: Annam na nindyat tattvartaṁ annam bahu rakṣhet. Pṛthivyāṁ yadi vṛṣṭiḥ syāt tat syāt sarvasya bheshajam. "Do not despise food, for it is the healing herb; if there is rain on Earth, it becomes the remedy for all."

Shrimad Bhagavad Gita 3.12: Ishtān bhogān hi vo devā dāsyante yajña-bhāvitāḥ. Tair dattān apradāyaibhyo yo bhunkte stena eva saḥ. "The demigods, being pleased with the completion of sacrificial rituals (yagya), will provide you with all the essential requirements." However, anyone who takes pleasure in these blessings without reciprocating by donating them to the demigods is undoubtedly a thief."

These quotes emphasize the Vedic concept of dharma, which includes the need to care for the environment. They prioritize the responsibility of protecting and enhancing the earth, guaranteeing the welfare of all living beings, not just for personal gain but for the general welfare of the planet.

Ahimsa (nonviolence) is a principle that advocates the absence of harm or violence toward all living beings. This principle applies not only to human relationships but also to all living beings. Practising ahimsa means avoiding harming animals and plants, promoting biodiversity, and maintaining ecological balance.

The principle of ahimsa is rooted in the Vedas, which underline the importance of avoiding harm to all sentient beings and advocating biodiversity and ecological balance.

RigvedaRigveda 10.85.44: Yajña-bhūmiḥ pṛthivīṁ dhṛtā saṁvatsareṇa yajñena. "The Earth, known as the realm of selflessness, is sustained by the yearly ritual cycle of yajñ."

YajurvedaYajurveda 36.18: Annam na nindyat tattvartaṁ annam bahu rakṣhet. "Do not despise food. Preserve it with care and respect."

Yajurveda 13.47:Ahimsa prathamam pujyam. "Non-violence is the highest duty."

Yajurveda 12.32: Mitrasyaaham chakshusha sarvaani bhootani sameekshe. "With the eyes of a friend, I behold all beings."

Atharvaveda 6.23.3: Ma himsīsṭa sarva bhūtāni. "May all beings be free from harm."

Manusmriti 6.60: Ahimsa satyam asteyam śaucham indriya-nigrahah. "Non-violence, truth, non-stealing, purity and sensory control are eternal duties.

"Shrimad Bhagavad Gita 12.13: Adveṣṭā sarva-bhūtānām maitraḥ karuṇa eva ca. Nirmamo nirahaṅkāraḥ sama-duḥkha-sukhaḥ kṣamī. "One who maintains no hatred towards any living being exhibits friendliness and compassion, lacks attachment and ego, remains equanimous in both happiness and sorrow and possesses a forgiving nature."

These lines draw attention to the concept of non-violence and emphasize the importance of non-violence towards all, including humans and other sensitive species. This principle supports a caring attitude towards life, promoting ecological balance and protecting biodiversity.

Practical Applications in Ancient Times

Vedic Agriculture

The Vedas define agricultural methodologies that highlight the principle of sustainability. Vedic farming includes fundamental techniques, including crop rotation, natural fertilization, and the utilization of organic matter. These strategies ensure the maintenance of soil fertility and a stable crop output without harming the land.

Sustainable agricultural practices that focus on methods such as crop rotation, natural fertilization, and the use of organic matter to guarantee soil fertility and long-term productivity include:

Rigveda 10.101.8: Aagne vratapate vratam charishyāmi tatra me rādhyatām idam aham anṛtasya na vṛtam avāmi satyam uttamam. "O Agni, Lord of Vows, I shall perform the vow. May it bring success to me. I will not break the vow of truth but uphold the highest truth."

Atharvaveda 3.17.10: "Yad eṣām pravatam prāśākābhūḥ, śunāsīra, mānasya vājinīvati. Amba yasya vājinīvati. "O Prithvi, in whose wide lap grows food, plants, and vegetation, upon whom the forest stands, may she grant us nourishment and sustain our lives."

Atharvaveda 3.24.5: Pṛthivī noṣadhīṣṭhā annapārakṛt bhavatu. "May the Earth, with its fields of herbs and plants, be kind to us and provide us with food."

YajurvedaYajurveda 11.83: Annād bhavanti bhūtāni parjanyād anna-sambhavah. Yajñād bhavati parjanyo yajñah karma-samudbhavah."All living beings originate from food, which is generated from rain." Precipitation is generated by the process of yajña, which in turn originates from prescribed duties."

Yajurveda 13.43: Urvarā oṣadhayaḥ saṁvat saram avardhayan. "May the flora and botanicals flourish profusely all year round."

Water Conservation Ancient Vedic writings also document advanced methods for conserving and managing water. Techniques such as rainwater collecting, the creation of ponds and tanks, and the effective utilization of water resources were frequently employed to uphold the hydrological cycle and guarantee water availability.

The Vedas highlight ancient water conservation and management methods, such as rainwater harvesting, construction of ponds and reservoirs, and efficient utilization of water resources.

Rigveda 7.49.2: Apo hi ṣṭhā mayobhuvas tā na urje dadhātana. Maheramāṇāḥ karṇadhvam. "O water, you are the giver of health; give us strength and vitality so we can drink your nectar."

Rigveda 10.30.12: Indraḥ sindhum atisṛjaḥ svarṣāḥ parvatāvadhiḥ. "Indra released the waters from the mountain streams for the benefit of the people."

Atharvaveda 3.13.5: Ya osadhayaḥ sambhritā aapo vārin sarvaścaram. Te no mṛḍantu varcasā. "May the herbs gathered from the waters and all moving liquids grant us strength and brilliance."

Atharvaveda 19.2.2: Yā āpo divyā uta vā sravanti khanitrimā uta vā yāḥ svayamjāḥ. Samudrārthā yāḥ śucayaḥ pāvakās tā āpo deva īhituṁ kalpayan tāḥ. "May the celestial waters, the terrestrial waters, the subterranean waters, and the naturally occurring waters, which are divine in nature and possess the qualities of purity and cleansing, grant us strength."

YajurvedaYajurveda 11.50: Apo devīr upa hūtaḥ samagman ta āpo deveer upa hūtaḥ sam agman. Iḍā na urjam dadhātu. "We invoke the divine waters that have come together; may they grant us nourishment and strength."

Yajurveda 6.22: Apo hi ṣṭhā mayobhuvas tā na urje dadhātana. Maheramāṇāḥ karṇadhvam."Waters, you possess advantageous qualities; bestow upon us power and vitality so that we may consume your essence."

Shatapatha Brahmana 1.8.1.6: "Apo vṛṣṭir bhavanti yatra vrṣṭiḥ tatra jīvāḥ. "Where there is rain, there is life."

These statements emphasize the importance of water in Vedic philosophy and the sophisticated techniques used in ancient times for water conservation and management. They also emphasize the importance of valuing water as a crucial resource and the actions taken to ensure its availability and sustainability in the long run.

Relevance to Modern Environmentalism

The ideas in Vedic environmental philosophy are very similar to those in current environmental movements. Sustainability, respect for nature, and living in a way that takes care of your needs can teach us a lot about dealing with environmental damage and climate change today.

Vedic rituals can protect the environment. Certain rituals described in the Vedas, which are intended to pay respect to natural elements, have the potential to inspire contemporary efforts to safeguard the environment. For instance, customs such as tree planting, safeguarding water supplies, and showing reverence for animal life might be employed in contemporary society to enhance environmental stewardship.

In conclusion, Vedic philosophy contains timeless knowledge that can help us treat the world more carefully and respectfully. By following these ancient rules in our daily lives, we can help protect the earth and ensure the health of future generations.

References:

Primary Vedic Texts:

Rigveda

Atharvaveda

Yajurveda

Samaveda

Prime, Ranchor. The Vedic Ecology: Practical Wisdom for Surviving the 21st Century. Mandala Publishing, 2002.

Saraswati, Swami Dayananda. Hymns from the Vedas. Arsha Vidya Research and Publication Trust, 2010.

Kamna Vimal Sharma Environment Management -The Vedic Tradition, University of Delhi 2017.

.Chapple, Christopher Key, and Mary Evelyn Tucker, editors. Hinduism and Ecology: The Intersection of Earth, Sky, and Water. Harvard University Press, 2000.