SACRED SCRIPTURES
पवित्र ग्रन्थाः
Hindu scriptures are divided into two categories: Shruti (श्रुति — "that which is heard") — the Vedas, considered eternal and authorless, revealed to ancient sages in deep meditation; and Smriti (स्मृति — "that which is remembered") — epics, Puranas, and law texts composed by human authors, interpreted and adapted across time.
THE FOUR VEDAS
चत्वारि वेदाः — Shruti
THE UPANISHADS
उपनिषदः — The End of the Vedas
Over 200 Upanishads exist, but 10 are considered principal (Mukhya), commented upon by Adi Shankara. They contain the philosophical essence of the Vedas — exploring Brahman, Atman, consciousness, and the nature of reality. The Upanishads are the source of Vedanta philosophy.
EPICS & SACRED TEXTS
स्मृति — That Which Is Remembered
The Smriti tradition includes the great epics, Puranas, Dharma Shastras, and philosophical sutras. These texts make Vedic wisdom accessible through story, devotion, and practical guidance. They have shaped Hindu life for millennia.
यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य ग्लानिर्भवति भारत ।
अभ्युत्थानमधर्मस्य तदात्मानं सृजाम्यहम् ॥
अभ्युत्थानमधर्मस्य तदात्मानं सृजाम्यहम् ॥
"Whenever dharma declines and adharma rises, O Bharata, I manifest Myself."
— Bhagavad Gita 4.7