Book 2, Indra, Agni & Soma : Chapter 1, First Gods & the Mysterious Soma Summary

Previously unmentioned, was the introduction of something called Soma. It is not entirely certain exactly what Soma really is. It is primarily described as a substance that can be derived from a plant. The hymns explain that it causes some type of ecstasy. From the present perspective, and the fact that it is called a 'white substance' that can be procured by crushing the plant. Whatever it was, it was regarded highly and is normally referred to as not having been easy to come by. The largest quantity of Soma ever told of in the entire Rig Veda is 'three bowls of Soma', and that is much later in the book.

This summary chapter starts out with the hymns covered in the Death section. Burial...