What is Sruti?
- Sruti (Sanskrit: श्रुति) refers to the sacred texts that are considered as revealed knowledge, heard by ancient sages or rishis during their deep meditation, and passed down through generations through oral tradition. Sruti is considered to be divine knowledge and is believed to be eternal and unchanging. It is considered the primary source of Hindu philosophy, religion, and spiritual practices.
- The four Vedas, namely Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda, are considered as the foremost Sruti texts. The Upanishads, which are philosophical and spiritual texts that expound on the nature of the individual self and the ultimate reality, are also considered Sruti. Other texts that fall under this category include the Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and the Puranas.
- The Sruti texts are considered authoritative and are believed to have been revealed to the ancient sages by the gods themselves. As a result, they are regarded as the ultimate source of knowledge and wisdom in Hinduism. They are considered timeless and universal, and are believed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the nature of the universe, the individual self, and the ultimate reality.
- The Sruti texts are considered to be sacred, and are traditionally studied and recited with great devotion and respect. They are believed to have the power to purify the mind and soul of the reader, and to lead them towards spiritual enlightenment and liberation.