Presenting a mountaintop view of the vast library of wisdom that molds and influences Hindu life§
induism proudly embraces an incredibly rich collection of scripture. The holiest and most revered are the Vedas and Agamas, two massive compendia of shruti (that which is “heard”), both revealed by God to illumined sages centuries and millennia ago. The array of works known as smriti (that which is “remembered”) is equally vast, the most prominent and widely celebrated of which are the Itihasas (epic dramas and history)—the Ramayana and Mahabharata—and the Puranas (mythology). The Vedic arts and sciences, including ayurveda, astrology, music, dance, architecture, statecraft, domestic duty and law, are reflected in an assembly of texts known as Vedangas and Upavedas. Moreover, through the ages God-realized souls, sharing their experience, have poured forth volume upon volume that reveal the wonders of yoga and offer passionate hymns of devotion. The creation of Hindu scripture continues to this day, as contemporary masters reiterate the timeless truths to guide souls on the path to Divinity. In this Educational Insight, we offer a simple overview of Hindu scripture and an anthology of verses from this luminous library of dharma.§
The stack of books at above holds one bound volume from each of the four Vedas in the Sanskrit language. For centuries they have been the basis of philosophical discussion, study and commentary. The Vedas are also the subject of deep study and meditation, to realize the wisdom of the ancients within oneself. Their mantras are chanted and used in rites of worship, prayer and japa. §