Author: William Henry Robinson
Publisher: Rupa
Year: 2003
Language: English
Pages: 172
ISBN/UPC (if available): 8129101165
Description
This work is entirely based upon an ancient narrative of human life, contained in the very oldest - and therefore purest - sacred writings of Indian Antiquity. It is called The Story of Sunahsepha, a Sanskrit name corresponding exactly to the Greek word "Cynosure".
This is the story of India's God-Given Cynosure. A Vedic theme of human life and divine wisdom, ordained to be rehearsed at coronations of Indian kings. A faithful paraphrase in English verse side by side with a literal translation. Illustrated with copious notes.
King Harischandra’s Rajasuya celebrations, including the hundred verses from the Rig-veda are treated herein as a whole. Harischandra is still commemorated as an ancestor in the gatherings of Brahmins.
Recital of these verses used to be deemed important and necessary during the coronation of kings of various dynasties in ancient India. Robinson’s unique mastery of the subject and language ensures faithful reproduction of the remarkable literary skill and vein of true poetry of ancient India.
Contents
PROLOGUE
General Description of the Legend
Its Recital at Kings’ Coronations
THE LEGEND, STORY OF SUNAHSEPHA
Canto I: Sonship
Epode
Canto II: Righteousness
Canto III: Guidance
Epode
Canto IV: Sacrifice
Epode
Canto V: Liberation
Epode
Canto VI: Crowning
PART I
The Morning’s Religious Rites
PART II
The Final State Ceremonies
Epode
Canto VII: Exaltation
PART I
The Coronation Banquet
PART II
Adoption of Sunahsepha
Epode
Epilogue
PART I
After The Recital