INTRODUCTION TO THE COMMENTARY
OF
THE RIG & OTHER VEDAS

May God protect us both (the author and the reader), may he send us enjoyments, may we acquire strength together, may our learning be full of luster and glory, may we never hate each other.

SAHANAA VAVATU SAHANOU BHUNAKTU SAHA VEERYYA KARAVAA VAHAI
TE JASVINA VADHI TAMAS TU MAA VIDDHI SHAAVAHAI
Taittiriyopanishat, II Valli. I. Anuvaka

• Having bowed to Brahma, who is without beginning or end, who is the universal creator unborn, eternal, the true and the highest reality, and whose ancient knowledge, called the Veda, is the upholder of law, the destroyer of unlawfulness, pure, beneficial to the world and bestower of prosperity on all men, I, with a mind to explain and interpret the Vedas, undertake to write this commentary.

• I commenced this commentary on Sunday, the first day of the bright half of the month of Bhadra in the (Samvat) year 1933 (1876 A.D).
• Let the virtuous know that this work has been composed by one whose name (Dayananda Sarasvati) is synonymous with noble qualities and Vedic study. The delight (ananda) realized by one’s consciousness shines forth as the greatest joy and in its presence dwells learning (Sarasvati), under the Divine protection, doing good to all (men).
• May I write this Vedic commentary, with the favor of God, for the good of all men, giving the correct interpretation supported by valid proofs.

• Herein I shall give the exposition of the meaning of the mantras in elegant Sanskrit and the Vernacular which will satisfy all desires.
• In explaining the mantras I shall follow the ancient method of interpretation of the Aryan sages and seers and shall not swerve from it.
• May, this attempt of mine, to destroy the blemishes of modern commentaries and glosses which cast a slur upon and grossly misinterpret the Vedas and bring to light their ancient and correct interpretation, be successful through the help of God.