Vedic Mathematics Series: Geometry in the Sulba Sutras- Part II

Srauta Sutras are appendages to the Vedic Brahmana texts concerned with the proper conduct of rituals in the Sruti Texts. Of particular interest to mathematics is the ’Baudhayana Sulba Sutras’. The text is concerned with the construction and geometry of ’Vedis’ or Vedic fire altars. The sacred nature of the ’Yagnas’ and their centrality to the ’Vedic Dharma’ required precise measurements and dimensions in the construction of fire altars.

Sulba Sutras contain various gems of geometry, algebra and architecture and are noted to be among the first mentions of the famed Pythagoras Theorem. The Sutras are considered to be composed in 800 BC although scholars have speculated that many parts have been in existence since much before.

Outline:

Sulba Sutras: An Introduction
Geometrical Construction of Sum of Areas of Squares
Proof of Pythagoras Theorem: Sum of Areas of Squares
Geometrical Construction of Difference of Areas of Squares
Construction of Rhombus of a Given Area.
Concluding Remarks

Recommended Reading:

Bibhutibhusan Datta, The Science Of The Sulba, University of Calcutta (1932)

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