SOAS Research Online

Abstract

In this Thesis an attempt has been made to show that in Vedic Ritual women hold a no less honourable position than man. In the introductory Chapter we see that women have the right to offer Sacrifices, but whereas the maiden and the Brahma-vadini can offer in their own exclusive rights, the Wife cannot do so. This limitation of the Wife is counterbalanced by the fact that the Husband also cannot offer Sacrifices in his awn exclusive right. In the second Chapter it is seen that the Daughter has in no way a lase honoured or responsible position than the son in the Vedic Ritual. The third Chapter shows that in the Vedic Ritual the Wife holds as important a position as the husband - the limitations and facilities beings Always counterbalanced. The fourth Chapter shows the Mother as the highest Guru, and the rites performed by her and for her lead to same conclusion. So the above conclusion has been reached.