The Rig Veda is one of the most ancient and sacred texts in Hinduism. Composed of more than 1,000 hymns, this collection is essentially made up of songs of praise and prayer. These hymns are dedicated to the deities, expressing gratitude, devotion, and spiritual aspirations of the ancient Vedic people.
These hymns had a particular function, especially during sacred rituals. The first four days of a ritual were spent preparing the sacrificer’s spirit. Hymns played an essential role during this period. By singing these praises, the individual put himself into a state of mind of purity, respect and concentration. Each chant brought the sacrificer a little closer to the state necessary to perform the ritual with the right intention and energy.
On the fifth day of the ritual, a sacred drink called soma was consumed. Soma was prepared from plants containing psilocybin, a psychotropic compound. This drink had immense spiritual and ritual importance. It allowed the sacrificer to transcend his ordinary state of mind and reach a form of ecstasy, thus facilitating the connection with the deities.
Thus, the hymns of the Rig Veda were not only songs of praise, but also tools to uplift the mind and prepare the sacrificer for an intense spiritual experience. These rituals, punctuated by the consumption of soma, were seen as a means of entering into direct communion with the divine.
In short, in the Rig Veda, hymns and prayers served as a bridge between the world of men and that of the gods, and the preparation of the sacrificer with these songs was crucial for the success of the ritual.
Le Rig Veda 
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