A brief discussion of Education system (Introduction)

[Full title: A brief discussion of Education system in the Saṃhitā Period, in the Brahmanic Period, in the Epic Period and in the Puranic Period—Introduction]

India had a very rich tradition and interesting history. The glory of our ancient India was its education system. The unique features of our ancient Indian education system were religion, spiritual values and moral values. Their attitude of life was very simple. They think that the whole universe is like one unit. That is why, when the Vedic Ṛṣis attained highest knowledge they did not confine their knowledge for their own self. For the development of society they spread their knowledge.

During the age in a very beautiful and in a peaceful atmosphere the students used to listen and understand the mysteries and complexities of life. They live in the house of preceptor. And in very beautiful surroundings, the pupil sitting at the feet of his preceptor and understands all the experiences of life. They are not restricted on book only, because the teacher gives all the practical knowledge. They perform all the menial services or duties of his preceptor. They have to collect the fuel wood; they have to beg alms, supply water, tending the cattle of his preceptor. In this way they not only receive the instruction on education but also learn the correct lesson of the dignity of labour and service.

No doubt, our ancient education system have very unique feature. But this education system is not developed in one day. Slowly and gradually they make its path. First in the Saṃhitās period, after that the other ages were developed. That means, the evolution of the educational system in different periods a new form of educational system is evolved and this is our subject matter of discussion here.