"Rise Up, Abandon This Dead Man and Re-Join the Living"—Rigveda 10.18.1 | Did the Rigveda Support Widows Living a Full Life?

The topic of widowhood in ancient texts has long been a subject of debate, often associated with sorrow, sacrifice, and a life of solitude. Yet, an exploration of the ancient texts, particularly the Rigveda, reveals a different, more progressive approach to widowhood. One such verse, Rigveda 10.18.1, calls upon widows to "rise, abandon this dead man, and re-join the living," offering a significant departure from later practices that restricted the social roles of widows. This verse, when analyzed in its proper context, speaks to a broader, more empowering vision for widows, inviting them to reclaim their lives and re-engage with the living world.


The verse from Rigveda 10.18.1 is striking in its simplicity and power:

"Rise up, abandon this dead man, and re-join the living."

At first glance, this may appear to be a call for the widow to shed her grief and return to a normal life, which stands in contrast to later rituals like Sati (the self-immolation of widows) or the enforced seclusion of widows in many parts of medieval India. The command in the verse is not only to release the ties to the deceased but to move beyond mourning and engage actively with life again. It suggests an attitude of rejuvenation and a focus on the future rather than remaining imprisoned by the past.

This verse emphasizes the continuity of life, and in the context of the ancient Vedic worldview, it makes a powerful statement about the role of women after the death of a husband. The language used — "rise up" and "rejoin the living" — suggests a forward-looking perspective that encourages the widow to take charge of her life once more. It implies that widowhood is not an identity that should be imposed as a life sentence but rather a transition that can be navigated with resilience and dignity.


The idea that the Rigveda supports the widow’s right to a full life might challenge conventional views about ancient Indian practices. Many of us are familiar with the tragic stories of widowhood from later periods, such as the practice of Sati or the social stigma surrounding widows. However, a careful re-examination of the Vedic texts reveals that early Vedic society may have been more progressive and inclusive, particularly when it came to the status and rights of women.

The ancient Vedic texts, including the Rigveda, do not seem to impose the rigid roles on women that would later become associated with widowhood in medieval India. The Vedic society, based on the principles of sacrifice, cosmic order, and societal harmony, regarded all individuals — both men and women — as part of a larger, cyclical system. This cyclical view of life, death, and rebirth permeates the Vedic worldview and presents an argument that the widow’s life, too, should continue in alignment with this natural order.

Moreover, the fact that the Vedic texts often portray women as intellectual equals, with the possibility of engaging in spiritual practices and philosophical inquiry, suggests that there was a greater degree of autonomy for women in the Vedic period than is often portrayed in the later historical narrative. In this light, Rigveda 10.18.1 could be seen as a reflection of a society that acknowledged the complexity of human relationships and offered space for personal growth and renewal after loss.


It is essential to recognize that the progressive ideas found in the Rigveda were not necessarily preserved in later periods of Indian history. Over time, social norms regarding widowhood grew more rigid, and women often faced severe restrictions after the death of their husbands. The practice of Sati, the notion of widow seclusion, and other such social constructs became entrenched during medieval times, creating a stark contrast to the earlier, more inclusive views seen in the Vedic texts.

While the Rigveda encourages widows to reclaim their lives, the societal acceptance of this principle did not persist in the way it was originally envisioned. Over time, widows were subjected to increasing social stigmas and became symbols of sorrow, isolation, and suffering. The historical trajectory of widowhood in India reflects the rise of social practices that reduced women’s agency and marginalized their roles in society.


The verses of the Rigveda, such as 10.18.1, offer a powerful counterpoint to the later practices that have shaped the history of widowhood in India. In the face of these practices, it becomes essential to revisit the roots of Indian thought and society to reclaim the more progressive, egalitarian ideals that were once embedded in Vedic culture.

Revisiting the idea of widowhood as presented in the Rigveda is crucial in challenging outdated perceptions about the role of widows in society. By focusing on the empowering message of the Vedic texts, we can reframe the conversation about widowhood, viewing it as a time for renewal rather than mourning, a chance for women to regain agency and move forward in life.

The message of Rigveda 10.18.1 is clear: life goes on, and every individual, including widows, has the right to continue their journey on this earth. The verse encourages widows to shed their grief and embrace life, acknowledging that widowhood does not define a person’s identity nor should it confine them to a life of mourning.

In revisiting the Vedic scriptures, we are reminded of the deep wisdom and progressive outlook of ancient Indian thought, where the cycles of life, death, and rebirth are seen as opportunities for growth and transformation. In this light, the widow’s life is not an end but a continuation of the journey, and her role in society should reflect that same spirit of renewal and vitality.

Today, as we move forward, it’s time to reclaim this ancient wisdom and use it to advocate for a society where women, especially widows, are given the freedom and space to live their lives fully, without societal constraints or stigmas. The Rigveda’s message is not just a relic of the past; it’s a timeless call for empowerment and resilience that can guide us into a more inclusive and compassionate future.