Question

Among the following four works, which one is encyclopedia in nature?
A.Amarakosa
B.Ashtangahrudayam
C.Brihat Samhita
D.Siddhanta Siromani

Answer 1

Hint:We will discuss the definition of encyclopedia.Encyclopedia is a reference work which provides summaries of knowledge from all branches or from a particular topic of field. It is divided into articles or entries arranged alphabetically in order. Encyclopaedia entries are longer and more detailed than in dictionaries.

Complete answer:
We will discuss one by one to reach the encyclopedia.Amarakosha is derived from Sanskrit words Amar means immortal and Kosa is dictionary has written it and is considered to be one of the navratnas at the court of Vikramaditya. Some sources indicate that he belongs to the period of Vikramaditya the verses of Amarakosha can be easily memorized; it is divided into three chapters first one deals with God in heaven second deals with earth, towns, animals and humans third deals with miscellaneous words.
ashtanga means eight components. It refers to eight sections of Ayurveda including internal medicine, surgery, gynaecology, UV Radiation therapy, toxicology, psychiatry and many more there are sections on personal hygiene causes of illness,season, time, classification of medicine, sense of taste etc.
Brihat Samhita is a book written by varahamihira. The book is mostly about divination. It includes a wide range of subjects other than divination. It contains one hundred six chapters. It is also known as great compilation. Nine pearls have been inhabited in the sacred text.

Hence, the correct answer is option (C).

Note:In Brihat Samhita the subjects include human interest astronomy, planetary movement and eclipse, rainfall, clouds, architecture, growth of crops, manufacture of perfume, Matrimony, domestic relations, gems, pearls and rituals.