Scientific Thought in Epics

Tamil epics are not merely literary works that expound the principles of life such as virtue, wealth, love, and spiritual liberation; they also serve as repositories of knowledge that record the scientific thoughts of the ancient Tamils. In particular, epics such as Silappathikaram and Civaka Cintamani contain subtle references to concepts related to chemistry and astronomy. Observations concerning the natural properties of gems, the emission of light, the arrangement of celestial bodies, and the relationship between the Moon and Jupiter reveal the scientific perspective of the people of that period. This study aims to examine the scientific thoughts found in Tamil epics and to explain their relationship with modern scientific knowledge.

Astronomy; Chemistry; Medicine; Engineering; Architecture; Maritime Technology; Shipbuilding; Navigation

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