Posted on: 05 Feb 2005
The word Adhyayanam actually means knowing the Veda and not reciting the Veda. Of course in olden days when there was no printing, the Veda was also recited. But the knowledge of the Veda was discussed and practiced. The Veda itself means knowledge. The Shastra says that mere recitation of the Veda is the worst (Anarthajnah Paatakaadhamah) without knowing the knowledge. At present the Vedas are published and computerized and so there is no need of mere recitation. Please note once again that Adhyayanam means to know the knowledge of the Veda and not mere recitation. The Veda itself mocks at the person who simply recites the Veda as a divine animal (Devaanaam Pasurahaha).