Hymns on Ratri in the Atharvaveda
By R. D. Hegde
Summary
R. D. Hegde analyses a cluster of Atharvan hymns (Atharvaveda XIX 47–50) dedicated to Rātrī, the goddess of night. He observes that unlike the Ṛgvedic hymns on Earth or Dawn, these compositions reflect a unique Atharvan perspective characterised by realistic description and contemporary relevance. Through close reading of the hymns attributed to the poet Gopatha, Hegde shows how Rātrī is personified as a charming yet awe‑inspiring figure who embodies mystery, protection and beauty. The hymns describe her starry splendour, her compassion towards devotees and the psychological effects of darkness on human beings. The article notes contrasts between Gopatha’s hymns and other Vedic references to Rātrī, emphasising the poet’s introspective tone and his negotiation with the deity. By examining imagery and metre, Hegde demonstrates that these Atharvan hymns combine devotional fervour with literary artistry, offering insights into early Indian conceptions of the night.
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Conclusion
Hegde concludes that the Atharvan hymns to Rātrī stand out for their imaginative richness and emotional depth. They reflect a compromise between fear of darkness and appreciation of its beauty, thereby humanising the deity and highlighting the Atharvaveda’s distinctive contribution to Vedic literature.