Atharvaveda’s Environmental Ethos: Ecological Wisdom in the Atharvanic Tradition

Abstract

The term "Ecology" refers to environmental science, which is a relatively recent field of study in India. The concept of ecology has evolved over time, influenced by the conditions prevailing during different periods. Environmental problems and efforts to address them have existed since ancient times. Therefore, it is unreasonable to expect earlier generations to have the same environmental awareness as we do today. However, environmental consciousness has been present even in ancient times. From the Vedic age, people recognized the importance of a favorable environment for healthy living. Vedic seers revered nature and its elements such as water, air, soil, trees, rivers, oceans, and the sky as divine entities. Concepts like jaladevatā (water deity), vanadevatā (forest deity), varuņudevatā (water god), and vāyudevatā (wind god) became integral to tradition, and the Earth was regarded as a mother figure. In contrast, modern human activities for personal comfort and enjoyment have led to the destruction of natural resources, causing deforestation, soil degradation, and pollution of water and air, posing serious threats to the world today. Hence, a widespread awakening is necessary to revive and apply the Vedic principles to combat environmental pollution in the current context.