Vedic Myths and Rituals

Vedic Myths and Rituals, edited by Jan E. M. Houben and Julieta Rotaru, explores the intricate relationship between Vedic myths and Vedic rituals. The book delves into the symbolic and practical dimensions of Vedic traditions, offering fresh insights into ancient Indian religious practices. The essays in this volume address both problems of the textual sources of the most ancient myths and rituals, and reflections on different models of theorizing the Vedic myths and rituals. The volume presents a rich tapestry of topics, ranging from the study of myths and their employment in rituals, as seen in the story of the horse of Pedu and its connection to snake poison remedies, to the formal structures of Vedic rituals like the Sviṣṭakṛt that is an important part of numerous Vedic rituals such as the Agniṣṭoma.