Science in Puranic Literature

Abstract

Puranic literature is often considered merely as a collection of religious and mythological stories; however, in reality, it represents a multidimensional, scientific, and practical repository of Indian knowledge. This research paper aims to present an analytical survey of the various sciences embedded in Puranic literature, such as Ayurvedic medicine, gemology, architecture, astrology, physiognomy, veterinary science, and martial science (Dhanurveda). Based on texts like Agni Purana, Garuda Purana, Matsya Purana, Narada Purana, and Vishnu Dharmottara Purana, it is evident that scientific thinking was highly developed in ancient Indian society. This study demonstrates that Puranas are not merely religious texts but authentic sources of practical sciences related to daily life, whose historical and cultural significance remains relevant even today.

Introduction

The term Purana literally means “ancient,” but its definition is not limited to antiquity alone. According to the saying “Pura Navam Bhavati Puranam”, a Purana is one that, while ancient, continues to provide new, useful, and specialized knowledge. The experiences of the ancients were extremely rich; therefore, the poetry and texts they composed are considered significant due to their philosophical and intellectual content.

Through history and Puranas, the true meaning of the Vedas can be understood:

“It is through history and Puranas that the Vedas should be expanded; without this, a person of limited knowledge may perform rituals without understanding, causing problems in society.”

Hence, knowledge of Puranas is essential. The Vedas’ meanings can only be fully comprehended based on the Puranas; without them, a comprehensive and meaningful interpretation of any text is impossible. Puranas have been the pillars of Indian history, culture, and civilization since ancient times. They occupy an extremely important place as the backbone of Indian culture. From the beginning, India has had a rich tradition of science. Even in the Rigveda, the term Purana is used as an adjective. Purani Vidya—puranic knowledge—is a distinct type of science. Puranas contain descriptions of numerous sciences, including Ayurvedic medicine, gemology, architecture, astrology, physiognomy, and martial science. Texts like Agni Purana, Garuda Purana, Matsya Purana, and Narada Purana provide detailed discussions on these topics. This paper presents a concise yet authentic survey of these subjects.

1. Martial Science (Dhanurveda)

In ancient India, Dhanurveda was considered a highly prestigious discipline. Brahma, Prajapati, Indra, Manu, and Jamadagni are regarded as the principal teachers of this science. The Mahabharata mentions Agastya and Bharadwaja as masters of martial knowledge. Agni Purana contains summaries of Dhanurveda in four chapters. Though the text authored by Vishwamitra is not currently available, it has been referenced by scholars like Madhusudana Saraswati. Dhanurveda encompassed the study of weapons, warfare strategies, and military training, reflecting a scientific approach to defense in ancient India.

2. Medical Science (Ayurveda)

Ayurveda, closely linked to the Indian way of life, is extensively discussed in the Puranas. Both Agni Purana and Garuda Purana contain detailed accounts of Ayurvedic medicine. Dhanvantari imparted Ayurvedic knowledge to Sushruta. Garuda Purana dedicates 56 chapters to disease diagnosis, pharmacology, properties of medicinal substances, and treatments for ailments like fever, blood disorders, respiratory diseases, and snakebites. Agni Purana mentions Mritasanjeevani and various Kalpa Yogas. In agrarian India, the study of plant-based medicine (Vrikshayurveda) was significant. Agni Purana describes remedies derived from trees, climbers, and shrubs, and commentaries like the Brihat Samhita link scholars such as Kashyapa, Parashara, and Sarasvata to this field.

Veterinary science was equally advanced. The Mahabharata mentions Ashwasutra and Hastisutra, while Shalihotra is recognized as a master of equine medicine. Agni Purana details horse care, characteristics, and treatment, whereas Garuda Purana discusses poison treatment. Matsya Purana recognizes Somputra Budha as the pioneer of elephant medicine. Veterinary texts like Gaja Ayurveda, authored by Dhanvantari, are briefly referenced in both Garuda Purana and Agni Purana, demonstrating that Puranic literature preserves systematic and scientific veterinary knowledge.

3. Gemology and Physiognomy

The science of gems is systematically described in the Puranas. Garuda Purana has twelve chapters dedicated to gemology, discussing classification, properties, defects, and identification of pure stones. Gems such as diamond, pearl, ruby, emerald, sapphire, cat’s eye, crystal, and coral are examined, and Agni Purana provides brief references. Scholars like Bhojaraja compiled various Puranic references on gemology in texts like Muktikalpataru.

Physiognomy (Samudrika Shastra) interprets human behavior and life directions based on physical features. The Sundara Kanda of the Ramayana offers a notable example of analyzing body features. Detailed discussions on body characteristics (Angavidya) are found in Agni Purana and Garuda Purana. In Jain literature, this science is referred to as Angavijja. These studies reflect the ancients’ interest in understanding human nature scientifically.

4. Architecture (Vastu Shastra)and Astrology(Jyotisha)

Vastu Shastra, concerned with the construction of temples, royal palaces, and buildings, is highly detailed in Matsya Purana, which contains eighteen chapters on the subject. Principles of site selection, deity installations, and systematic building techniques are meticulously described, with mentions of sages such as Atri, Bhrigu, Narada, and Vishwakarma. Agni Purana, Garuda Purana, and Vishnu Dharmottara Purana also contain architectural content.

Astrology, considered the eye of the Vedas, is documented in texts like Srimad Bhagavatam (Fifth Skandha) and Devi Bhagavatam (Eighth Skandha). Garuda Purana discusses predictive astrology, planetary deities, yogas, results of planetary positions, auspicious and inauspicious outcomes related to travel and marriage. Narada Purana provides guidance on calculations related to constellations, while Agni Purana emphasizes understanding auspicious and inauspicious influences. Astrology was deeply integrated with social and religious life.

5. Conclusion

It is evident that Puranic literature is not merely a collection of religious texts but a vast and authentic repository of Indian science, technology, and practical knowledge. The diverse sciences described in the Puranas demonstrate the high scientific consciousness, experiential knowledge, and experimental approach of ancient Indian society. Therefore, studying Puranas remains highly relevant today from historical, cultural, and scientific perspectives.