Step 1: Definition of Vāksūktam.
The term Vāksūktam originates from "Vāk" (speech/divine word) and "Sūktam" (hymn).
Therefore, Vāksūktam is a hymn dedicated to Vāk Devi, the goddess of speech.
It is an ancient Vedic hymn emphasizing speech as a divine force.
Step 2: Veda Identification.
Of the four Vedas (Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, Atharvaveda), the Rigveda is the oldest, containing over 1000 hymns.
Vāksūktam is located in the Rigveda (10th Mandala, Hymn 125).
In this hymn, Vāk Devi describes her universal significance, asserting her role in sustaining all beings.
Step 3: Option Analysis.
- (1) Samaveda: Primarily musical renditions of Rigvedic hymns for ritual chanting, not original hymns like Vāksūktam.
- (2) Atharvaveda: Focuses on daily life, spells, and healing; it does not include Vāksūktam.
- (3) Rigveda: Correct, as Vāksūktam is found in Mandala 10.
- (4) Yajurveda: Contains sacrificial formulas, not hymns like Vāksūktam.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Vāksūktam is part of the Rigveda, illustrating the divine and cosmic power of speech.