How many Mandalas were in Rig Vedic Samhita?

The correct answer is 10.

Explanation:

The Rig Veda is the oldest of the four sacred Vedic texts of Hinduism. It is structured into books or chapters known as Mandalas.

In total, the Rig Vedic Samhita consists of exactly 10 Mandalas, which contain a total of 1,028 hymns (Suktas) comprising over 10,000 verses.

Key highlights of the Mandalas:

1. Mandalas 2 to 7 are considered the oldest and are often called the "Family Books" as they are attributed to specific sage families.

2. Mandalas 1 and 10 were added later and are the youngest parts of the collection.

3. Mandala 9 is dedicated entirely to Soma, the sacred ritual drink.

4. The famous Purusha Sukta, which describes the origin of the universe and the four Varnas, is found in the 10th Mandala.