Rg Veda
The best way to master the articulation of the hymns of the Rg Veda is to commit to regular, consistent practice. Since the Rg Veda is a massive text composed of 1,024 hymns, it is best to focus on a specific area of study. The hymns of the Veda are divided into Mandalas, also called “books”. Each Mandala contains hymns that have the same subject. The topic of the hymn is called the “devata” literally meaning “God”. The hymns of the Veda have commonly been interpreted as hymns worshiping various gods and are used in ceremonies in the Hindu religion.
For the purposes of this website I am not presenting the Veda in a religious context. These hymns can be seen simply as powerful tools for expanding consciousness. By listening to and chanting the hymns, the individual awareness is absorbed into the universal; experiences of bliss, knowingness, and cognition are not uncommon. The Veda was composed (cognized) by sages experiencing the highest levels of consciousness. By experiencing the Veda we can reconnect with the aspects of consciousness that are the essence of the hymns. Chanting the hymns and beginning to learn their articulation and meaning enlivens the experience of consciousness dramatically.
The TM society has the entire Rg Veda text available in PDF format.
It is most effective to practice chanting the Veda along with a recording of an authentic recitation. For this purpose, I recommend purchasing a copy of the recording released by the TM society. It is entitled RK Veda. (RK Veda is the same as RG Veda) It is a recitation of the 9th Mandala Anuvakas 1 and 2, along with selected hymns from the 9th and 10th Mandalas. You can view and/or purchase this product here.
I have composed a hymn book that contains the first 24 hymns of the 9th Mandala of the RG Veda. For anyone wishing to begin the study of chanting the RG Veda, this is an excellent resource.
The PDF file can be downloaded and printed, I have enclosed special printing instructions.
This ia a link to download the Rg Veda Booklet. Instructions for printing it out are on this page at the left.
A good place to begin practicing the Rg Veda is the 9th Mandala. For chanting, it is also helpful to have the hymns arranged so that each is on a single page. To help facilitate your practice, the Rg Veda Booklet includes the 9th Mandala, 1st Anuraka in this format. I recommend practicing the hymns in this booklet with the TM Society's recording. Their recording begins at the 9th Mandala, 1st Anuraka.
Sama Veda
The Sama Veda is a selection of hymns from the RG Veda. These hymns are known for their effect of helping to stabilize Unity consciousness. They are sung rather than chanted and are more complex in articulation than the RG Veda.
You can visit the TM site for more information on the Sama Veda and to download a PDF file of the entire Sama Veda text.
An audio recording of the Sama Veda is also available.