Hindu scriptures

Hindu scriptures refer to the sacred texts revered in Hinduism, which is one of the oldest religions in the world. These texts are written in various Indian languages and are primarily classified into two categories: Shruti and Smriti.

Shruti

The term Shruti translates to "that which is heard" and represents the body of most authoritative, ancient religious texts comprising the central canon of Hinduism. It is believed that these texts were revealed to ancient sages (rishis) directly by God. The primary texts under Shruti include:

• Vedas: The oldest and most sacred texts of Hinduism, believed to have been directly revealed to the sages. There are four Vedas:

 * Rigveda
 * Yajurveda
 * Samaveda
 * Atharvaveda

• Upanishads: Philosophical texts that explore the concepts found in the Vedas, often in the form of dialogues between a teacher and a student.
• Brahmanas: Prose texts that explain the hymns in the Vedas, detailing their use in rituals and the symbolism behind the rituals.
• Aranyakas: Part of the Brahmanas, these texts are typically meditative and philosophical and intended for forest-dwelling hermits.

Smriti

Smriti, meaning "that which is remembered," includes a vast array of texts that are considered less authoritative than Shruti but still highly respected. These texts are believed to be written by human authors and include:

• Dharma Shastra: Texts that provide guidelines on duty, morality, and law, such as the Manusmriti.
• Itihasas: Epic narratives that include the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, which also contains the Bhagavad Gita, a sacred philosophical dialogue.
• Puranas: Mythological texts that narrate the history of the universe from creation to destruction and its cycles, detailing the lives of deities and heroes. Notable Puranas include the Bhagavata Purana and the Shiva Purana.
• Agamas and Tantras: Scriptures that provide knowledge about temple construction, iconography, rituals, yoga practices, and the worship of deities.

Other Texts

In addition to the primary categories of Shruti and Smriti, there are other genres of texts that hold significance in Hindu practices:

• Sutras: Aphoristic scriptures that provide concise teachings on various subjects, including rituals and ethical conduct.
• Stotras: Devotional hymns in praise of deities.
• Bhashyas: Commentaries on the Vedas, Upanishads, and other scriptures, written by various scholars to clarify and interpret the ancient texts.

Role and Importance

Hindu scriptures serve as the foundation for the religious, philosophical, cultural, and social practices observed by millions of Hindus around the world. They guide the rituals, festivals, and daily activities of individuals and communities. These texts also provide profound insights into ethics, governance, philosophy, and spirituality, influencing other religious and philosophical traditions both within and outside of India.

See Also

• History of Hinduism
• List of Hindu texts
• Vedic chant