Beas and Sutlej
Explanation
The Rigveda contains specific dialogue hymns known as Samvada Suktas. One of the most significant of these is found in the third Mandala (RV 3.33), depicting a conversation between the sage Vishvamitra and two personified rivers.Detailed Analysis:
- The hymn records the prayers of Vishvamitra, the priest of the Bharata clan, who wishes to cross the rivers with his chariots and carts.
- He addresses two specific rivers, asking them to lower their waters to allow safe passage.
- The rivers mentioned are Vipasa and Sutudri.
- Vipasa is the Rigvedic name for the modern river Beas.
- Sutudri is the Rigvedic name for the modern river Sutlej.
- The rivers are worshipped as goddesses in the text, and they eventually accede to the sage's request.
Key Takeaway: The famous dialogue hymn in Rigveda Mandala 3 involves Sage Vishvamitra and the rivers Beas (Vipasa) and Sutlej (Sutudri).