Define Samhita.
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"Samhita," derived from the Sanskrit root "sahita," meaning "joined" or "collected," refers to a collection or compilation of verses, hymns, or mantras that constitute the earliest layer of sacred texts in various Indian traditions, particularly the Vedas. Samhitas are foundational scriptures, forming the primary portion of the Vedic literature.
Each Veda has its own Samhita, and these are the Rigveda Samhita, Samaveda Samhita, Yajurveda Samhitas (divided into Shukla Yajurveda and Krishna Yajurveda), and Atharvaveda Samhita. The Samhitas are composed in poetic and metrical forms, containing hymns dedicated to various deities, praises, invocations, and ritual formulas used in Vedic ceremonies.
The Rigveda Samhita, for instance, comprises hymns primarily addressed to various natural forces and deities, reflecting the early Indo-Aryan religious worldview. The Samhitas form the core of Vedic literature, serving as the basis for the subsequent layers of Vedic texts, namely the Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and Upanishads, which delve into ritualistic explanations, philosophical discussions, and spiritual insights, respectively. The Samhitas play a pivotal role in preserving and transmitting the religious and cultural heritage of ancient India.