The Rig-veda is of interest because it describes a very early stage in the evolution of Hinduism and describes a pastoral, possibly nomadic culture based on cattle. It was composed orally about 1500 B.C. and written down about 600 B.C.
Some of the hymns are cosmological in nature. For instance, Hymn 1:185:
1. WHETHER of these is elder, whether later? How were they born? Who knoweth it, ye sages? These of themselves support all things existing: as on a car the Day and Night roll onward. 2 The Twain uphold, though motionless and footless, a widespread offspring having feet and moving. Like your own fon upon his parents' bosom, protect us, Heaven and earth, from fearful danger.
The Rig-veda has numerous passages devoted to Soma, an intoxicating beverage. The nature of Soma is a mystery even though its preparation and appearance are described very precisely in several hymns. The drink, which Aldous Huxley used as the name of an Ecstasy-like drug in his Utopian novel Brave New World, was apparently Psychoactive. It is presumed to be identical with the pre-Zoroastrian Persian drink Haoma. Some theories are that Soma was derived from lotus flowers, psychoactive mushrooms, or Marijuana. Soma is not used in modern Hindu rituals; however, Bhang[?], a fermented marijuana tea is used in some cases as a offering.
For instance, Hymn 9:25:
1. GREEN-HUED! as one who giveth strength flow on for Gods to drink, a draught For Vayu and the Marut host. 2 O Pavamana, sent by song, roaring about thy dwelling-place, Pass into Vayu as Law bids. 3 The Steer shines with the Deities, dear Sage in his appointed home, Foe-Slayer, most beloved by Gods. 4 Taking each beauteous form, he goes, desirable, while purified, Thither where- the Immortals sit. 5 To Indra Soma flows, the Red, engendering song, exceeding wise, The visitor of living men. 6 Flow, best exhilarator, Sage, flow to the filter in a stream To seat thee in the place of song.
Refer to the Rig-veda at sacred-texts.com (http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/rigveda/index.htm)
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