Editing Varuna (section)

====Atharvaveda====
In the ''[[Atharvaveda]]'' (<abbr>c.</abbr> 1200–900 BCE), Varuṇa’s portrayal evolves while retaining continuity with earlier depictions. Although scholars such as [[Arthur Anthony Macdonell|A.A. Macdonell]] have suggested that Varuṇa appears here "divested of his powers as a universal ruler," other interpretations challenge this view. Rather than a decline, Varuṇa’s role shifts toward a more metaphysical and moral presence, with water remaining a central element of his identity.<ref name=":Ath">{{Cite book |last=Chaudhuri |first=Dr Usha |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HODWjwEACAAJ |title=Indra And Varuna In Indian Mythology |publisher=Nag Publishers |year=1978 |isbn=978-81-7081-034-6 |pages=52–54 |language=en |chapter=Varuṇa in the Atharvaveda}}</ref>

The ''Atharvavedic'' waters (''[[Ap (water)|āpah]]'') are described as golden-hued, pure, and sacred. They function not only as physical substances but also as the womb of creation, giving rise to deities such as [[Savitr|Savitṛ]] and [[Agni]]. These waters embody the principle of becoming, and Varuṇa, as their lord, governs the cosmic processes emerging from them.<ref name=":Ath" />

One of the most prominent hymns dedicated to Varuṇa is Book IV, Hymn 16, which emphasizes his omniscience and moral surveillance. He is said to possess “spies with a thousand eyes” who descend to observe all human actions. His oversight extends beyond earth and heaven to regions beyond the visible cosmos. The metaphor of Varuṇa controlling the world like a gamester casting dice illustrates his dominion over fate and law.<ref name=":Ath" />

This hymn also introduces magical and imprecatory themes, consistent with the ''Atharvaveda’s'' ritualistic focus. Still, the theological depth remains intact: Varuṇa punishes immorality not out of wrath, but in fulfillment of his cosmic duty to uphold ''ṛta''. His moral authority is depicted as omnipresent and inescapable. Here, Varuṇa's moral authority is reinforced by his role as enforcer of law through spiritual nooses ([[pāśa]]) cast upon the wicked.<ref name=":Ath" />

A notable development in the ''Atharvaveda'' is the explicit articulation of Varuṇa’s dual nature as both punisher and forgiver. In Book I, Hymn 10, a priest pleads for the release of a sinner, reflecting the idea that sin can result from ignorance or falsehood and can be absolved through penance. This reveals a sophisticated moral theology, wherein divine grace is attainable through sincere repentance.<ref name=":Ath" />

[[Max Müller]] praised this dualism, viewing Varuṇa as one of the most theologically advanced constructs in early Indo-Aryan religion. Rooted in sky imagery yet imbued with ethical and cosmic dimensions, Varuṇa is both transcendent and intimately connected with human conscience.<ref name=":Ath" />

Varuṇa is again identified as ''Māyin''—master of ''[[māyā]]'', or divine creative power—and called ''[[Asura]]'' in its original sense of “lord” or “mighty one.” This emphasizes his possession of ''asu'' (vital power) and his role as an invisible force guiding the visible world. Yet, his identity as ''Apām Adhipati''—the Lord of Waters—remains constant. The waters, symbolic of purity, healing, and cosmic potential, reinforce his status as a protector of life and order in the ''Atharvaveda''.<ref name=":Ath" />