Short Answer

The Vedic Age is divided into two main periods: the Early Vedic Period and the Later Vedic Period. The Early Vedic Period is also known as the Rigvedic Period, as most information comes from the Rigveda.

The Later Vedic Period came after this and shows changes in society, economy, and political life. During this time, new Vedic texts were written, and society became more complex and organized.

Detailed Explanation:

Two periods of Vedic Age

Early Vedic Period

The Early Vedic Period is the first phase of the Vedic Age. It is also called the Rigvedic Period because most of the information about this time comes from the Rigveda, the oldest Vedic text. This period is believed to have existed around 1500 BCE to 1000 BCE.

During this time, people mainly lived in the north-western part of the Indian subcontinent. They lived a simple and rural life. The main occupation of the people was cattle rearing and agriculture. Cows were considered very important and were a symbol of wealth.

The society during the Early Vedic Period was simple and less divided. There was no strict caste system. People were generally equal, and social differences were not very strong. The family was the basic unit of society, and the father was the head of the family.

Politically, small tribal groups were common. Each tribe was led by a chief called “Rajan.” The king did not have absolute power and had to take advice from assemblies like Sabha and Samiti. These assemblies played an important role in decision-making.

Religion during this period was simple. People worshipped natural forces like fire, wind, sun, and rain. Important gods included Indra, Agni, and Varuna. There were no temples or idols; worship was done through prayers and sacrifices.

Later Vedic Period

The Later Vedic Period followed the Early Vedic Period and lasted from around 1000 BCE to 600 BCE. During this time, society became more advanced and complex. People moved towards the eastern parts of India, especially the Ganga Valley.

Agriculture became more important, and the use of iron tools helped in clearing forests and farming. This led to the growth of villages and towns. Trade and economic activities also increased.

Society became more divided during this period. The caste system started becoming stronger and more rigid. The four main varnas—Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras—became clearly defined.

The political system also changed. Kingdoms became larger and more powerful. Kings gained more authority and power. The role of assemblies like Sabha and Samiti became less important over time.

Religion also became more complex. Rituals and sacrifices became more detailed and important. The role of priests (Brahmins) increased, and they gained a higher position in society. New texts like the Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda were composed during this period.

This period also saw the beginning of philosophical thinking, which later led to the development of the Upanishads.

Conclusion

The Vedic Age is divided into two periods: the Early Vedic Period and the Later Vedic Period. The Early period was simple and rural, while the Later period was more advanced and complex in terms of society, economy, and politics.