Which ancient text uses the term 'Bhārata' for the Indian Subcontinent...
The Viṣhṇu Purāṇa uses the term 'Bhārata' for the Indian Subcontinent. An interesting fact is that this text describes India as the country lying north of the ocean and south of the snowy mountains.
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Which ancient text uses the term 'Bhārata' for the Indian Subcontinent...
Understanding 'Bhārata'
The term 'Bhārata' has significant historical and cultural relevance in the context of the Indian subcontinent. It is essential to explore which ancient text first used this term.
Origin in Ancient Texts
- The term 'Bhārata' primarily appears in the Viṣhṇu Purāṇa, one of the eighteen major Purāṇas in Hindu literature.
- This text dates back to around the 4th to 6th century CE and plays a crucial role in detailing the history and geography of ancient India.
Significance in Viṣhṇu Purāṇa
- In the Viṣhṇu Purāṇa, 'Bhārata' refers to the land inhabited by the descendants of King Bharata, a legendary figure in Hindu mythology.
- This connects to the idea that the subcontinent is named after this king, symbolizing unity and identity among its people.
Comparison with Other Texts
- Although the Ṛig Veda and Mahābhārata are foundational texts in Indian literature, they do not explicitly use the term 'Bhārata' to refer to the Indian subcontinent.
- The Ṛig Veda primarily focuses on hymns and rituals, while the Mahābhārata revolves around the epic narrative of the Kurukshetra War and moral dilemmas.
Conclusion
- Therefore, the correct answer is option 'B' (Viṣhṇu Purāṇa) as it is the earliest known text that explicitly uses 'Bhārata' to refer to the Indian subcontinent. This term encapsulates the cultural and historical essence of the region and its people.
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