Vedic Age, the Vedas, and the Aryan Civilization

The Vedic Age began 1500 B.C. to 500 B.C. The way we learned about the Vedic age is from the Vedas, a collection of hymns, chants, ritual instruction and other religious teachings. In the Vedas, the Aryans were known for warriors who battled with chariots and bow and arrows. The Aryans were also known for drinking, dancing, and chariot races. These nomadic herders admired cattle, which gave them food and clothing. Soon they would become settled farmers and measured there wealth in cows and bulls.

The Aryans soon spread and learned how to make skilled crafts with iron in 800 B.C. In the villages rajahs, often the most skilled leader, would lead the village along with the council of the elders.

Aryan Ranking System

We have learned from the Vedas that Aryans divided their society into rankings. At the top of the ranking were the Brahmins, priests. Following the Brahmins were the Kshatriyas and that group consisted of warriors and rulers. The three'd group were the Vaisyas. The Vaisyas included for herders,farmers, artisans,and merchants. After the Vaisyas the Sudras followed. The Sudra's were farmworkers, servants, and other laborers. The very last on the ranking were the Dalits. These people were considered outside of the caste system. The Dalits did work others didn't, such as eat her from animal skin.

Most Aryans were Polytheistic. The Aryans worshipped the gods and goddesses who represented natural forces. Indra, the chief Aryan idol, was the god of war. They honored many other gods such as Varuna, the god of order and creation,