In which of the following Vedas is the phrase 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' mentioned?

Appeared in: RRB Nsg. Superintendent -29 April-2025 (shift-2nd)

Explanation

The phrase 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' originates from the Maha Upanishad, a Sanskrit philosophical text.
The Maha Upanishad is traditionally considered one of the minor Upanishads and is associated with the Atharva Veda.
The phrase translates to "The world is one family," which is a central tenet of Hindu philosophy emphasizing universal brotherhood.
Therefore, among the given options, the Atharva Veda is the correct choice as it is the Veda to which the source text is attached.

Option A: The Samveda is one of the four principal Vedas, but its content primarily consists of melodies and chants (sāman) for liturgical purposes. It is not the source of this philosophical maxim.
Option B: The Ramayana is an Itihasa (epic poem), not a Veda. While it is a foundational text of Hinduism, it narrates the story of Rama and is not the origin of the phrase 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'.
Option C: The Mahabharata is also an Itihasa (epic poem) and not a Veda. It is the longest epic poem in the world and contains the Bhagavad Gita, but it is not the original source of this specific phrase.

Visual 1: Infographic - A chart illustrating the structure of Vedic literature. It would show the four Vedas (Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, Atharvaveda) and how each has associated texts like Samhitas, Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and Upanishads, with a line connecting the Maha Upanishad to the Atharva Veda.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Origin of the Sanskrit phrase 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
The concept of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' is a cornerstone of Indian philosophy and has significantly shaped its cultural and diplomatic ethos.
It promotes a vision of global unity, peace, and interconnectedness, suggesting that all of humanity should live in harmony like a single family.
This philosophy is often invoked in discussions on international relations, multiculturalism, and global citizenship.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key phrase in the question: 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'.
Next, analyze the options provided. Recognize that 'Ramayana' and 'Mahabharata' are epics (Itihasa), not Vedas. This distinction helps eliminate two of the four choices.
Recall or deduce the specific origin of the phrase. The phrase comes from the Maha Upanishad.
Connect the source text (Maha Upanishad) to its parent Veda. The Maha Upanishad is associated with the Atharva Veda.
Based on this connection, select the option that correctly identifies this Veda.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full RRB Nsg. Superintendent -29 April-2025 (shift-2nd)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.