The True Meaning of 'Ashwa' in the Vedic Ritual of Ashwamedh Yagya

The term 'Ashwa' in Vedic Sanskrit: Understanding its true significance

The term 'Ashwa' in Vedic Sanskrit refers to much more than just a horse. Within the rich tapestry of Vedic rituals and Vedic literature, the concept of 'Ashwa' carries multiple layers of meaning, each intertwined with deep symbolism and spiritual significance.

What is Ashwamedh Yagya?

The Ashwamedh Yagya is a significant Vedic ritual traditionally performed by kings to establish their sovereignty and demonstrate their power. During this ritual, a consecrated horse is released and allowed to wander freely for a defined period. Any kingdom that the horse enters must either submit to the king performing the Yagya or face a military challenge from him. This ritual serves as both a political and spiritual assertion of authority.

Understanding 'Ashwa'

Nirukta Interpretation:
2.27: 'Ashwa' is derived from its ability to travel great distances or eat excessively. The term 'ashna' also means to eat or consume. Hence, 'Ashwa' signifies a creature that 'enjoys' or 'pervades' in terms of distance and consumption.

Shvetashvatara Upanishad:
2.9: Ashwa is not just a horse but also represents the behavior of the senses or the mind.

Brihadaranyaka Upanishad:
1.2.7: The horse is referred to as 'Ashwa' because it has swollen, making it fit for the sacrifice. This reflects the ritual's deeper spiritual meaning, where the horse symbolizes the fit body for spiritual sacrifice.

Additional Meanings of 'Ashwa'

Sevenfold Symbolism:
In the context of the Vedas, 'Ashwa' also refers to seven. This has multiple interpretations, particularly in relation to the Sun and its rays. In this sense, 'Ashwa' signifies the seven chakras or seven different rays.
- Rig Veda 1.164.2: 'Seven yoke the one-wheeled chariot. One horse having seven names draws it.'

These seven rays are connected at their source, representing the unity of the Sun or the Self. The concept of a single source giving rise to seven different manifestations highlights the idea of a unified whole.

Spiritual Significance

The term 'Ashwa' embodies the principles of pervading and enjoying. 'Ash' means to enjoy, obtain, or experience, while 'ashana' relates to eating, consuming, and tasting. Additionally, causing something to swell can also indicate excessiveness. These concepts are not only applicable to the physical world but also encapsulate deeper spiritual meanings.

The Vedas often highlight the behavior of senses and the mind through the term 'Ashwa'. For instance, the Katha Upanishad (3.3–3.4) describes the body as a chariot, with the Self as the passenger, the intellect as the charioteer, and the mind as the reins. This metaphor underscores the importance of controlling the senses and the mind, much like yoking unruly horses to a chariot.

Conclusion

Understanding the term 'Ashwa' in the context of Vedic Sanskrit reveals a wealth of symbolism and spiritual significance. From representing the behavior of senses and the mind to symbolizing the Sun's rays or a single source giving rise to seven manifestations, 'Ashwa' is a multifaceted term that transcends its literal meaning. Its usage in the Ashwamedh Yagya reflects a complex interplay of political and spiritual dimensions, underscoring the depth and richness of Vedic literature.