Respect for WIFE

Atharvaveda 14.1.61

O bride! You shall bring bliss to all and direct our homes towards our purpose of living.

Atharvaveda 1.14.3

O, the groom! This bride is the protector of your entire family. May she dwell in your home for a period and sow seeds of intellect

Atharvaveda 14.1.50

O, Wife! I am holding your hand for prosperity

Atharvaveda 12.2.31

Ensure that these women never peep out of sorrow. Keep them free from all diseases and give them ornaments and jewels to wear.

Women Rights

Rigveda 3.31.1

The right is equal in the father's property for both the son and the daughter.

Yajurveda 20.9

There are equal rights for men and women to get appointed as rulers.

Atharvaveda 7.38.4 & 12.3.52

Women should take part in the legislative chambers and put their views on the forefront.

Qualities of Women

Women enjoyed far greater freedom in the Vedic period than in later India. She had more to say in the choice of her mate than the forms of marriage might suggest. She appeared freely at feasts and dances, and joined with men in religious sacrifice. She could study, and like Gargi, engage in philosophical disputation. If she was left a widow there were no restrictions upon her remarriage.