The Nirukta—Its Recensions
By Bishnupada Bhattacharya
Summary
This study compares the two main recensions of the Nirukta, Yāska’s ancient treatise on Vedic etymology and semantics. The author begins by explaining that the Nirukta is one of the six Vedāṅgas and provides glosses and explanations of obscure Vedic words. Manuscripts of the text, however, reveal two distinct recensions—a shorter version attributed to Yāska and a longer, expanded version used by later commentators. By collating manuscripts and analyzing quotations in works like the Bṛhaddevatā and the Nighaṇṭu, the article identifies passages that were likely interpolated in the longer recension. It notes that the shorter recension is more consistent in style and closely follows Yāska’s own examples, while the longer version includes additional explanations, myths and etymologies that reflect later theological interests. The author discusses specific examples where the two recensions differ, such as the explanation of words related to fire, deities and rituals, and highlights how later redactors sometimes misunderstood or misrepresented Yāska’s intent. The study also examines references to the Nirukta in Pāṇini, Kātyāyana and Patañjali to date the recensions and argues that the shorter recension likely represents the older form. In conclusion, the article shows how the transmission of the Nirukta involved both preservation and creative expansion, and it calls for critical editions that distinguish between authentic and interpolated material. This analysis contributes to understanding how Vedic exegetical literature evolved and how later scholars engaged with authoritative texts.
Conclusion
The article demonstrates that two distinct recensions of the Nirukta circulated, one shorter and likely closer to Yāska’s original composition, and another longer version expanded by later scholars. Through manuscript comparison and textual analysis the author shows that many of the longer recension’s additions were exegetical interpolations reflecting later theological concerns. Recognizing these layers helps scholars produce critical editions and better understand the history of Vedic interpretation.