Sanskrit Verse

ब्रह्मा स्मृत्वाऽऽयुषो वेदं प्रजापतिमजिग्रहत्। सोऽश्विनौ तौ सहस्राक्षं सोऽत्रिपुत्रादिकान् मुनीन्॥

— (Ashtanga Hrudayam, Sutrasthana 1/3)

Explanation

This describes the ‘Descent of Ayurveda’. The knowledge of the science of life (Ayurveda) was first recalled by Lord Brahma (the creator), who then passed it to Daksha Prajapati. He taught it to the Ashvini Kumaras (the celestial twin physicians), who then taught it to Indra. From Indra, the knowledge was passed down to the great sages on Earth, such as Atreya and Dhanvantari.

Clinical Importance

This lineage establishes the divine and ancient origin of Ayurveda, giving it a sacred authority. For a BAMS student, understanding this ‘Avatarana’ is part of appreciating the tradition and history of their science.