Samved

Samved refers to a collection of Vedic Sanskrit hymns, forming part of the four Vedas. It is specifically the Samaveda, one of the four canonical texts of Hinduism. The Samaveda is primarily a liturgical collection, consisting of verses that are chanted or sung, known as *sāman*. These hymns are largely derived from the Rigveda, with about two-thirds of its verses being common to both texts. The primary purpose of the Samaveda is to provide the melodic arrangements and recitations for Vedic rituals and sacrifices. It is often considered the "Veda of melodies" or "Veda of chants." The hymns in Samved are organized into two major parts: the first deals with the *pūrva-ārcika*, which is a collection of verses sung during specific parts of a sacrifice, and the second part is the *uttara-ārcika*, which contains verses sung during different rituals. The chanting of Samved is a highly elaborate and precise art, with specific intonations and musical notations passed down through generations. Understanding and performing these chants is considered a significant aspect of Vedic tradition and spiritual practice.