Understanding Hinduism through Hindu Sacred Texts
Hinduism is unlike any religion practiced across the globe and is known for its vast oral traditions and visual imagery that have been an integral part of its origin and development. Another important defining factor of Hinduism is its collection of several sacred texts and scriptures. The sacred texts in Hinduism offer both spiritual guidance and practical advice. These sacred texts provide a wonderfully varied and constantly enriching path for followers of Hinduism to reach the truth. This has resulted in creating a great diversity of beliefs and practices that have played a vital role in ensuring that Hinduism continues to thrive as a religion even after a millennium. Formats of Hindu Sacred Texts The sacred texts of Hindus are written in two main formats, namely Shruti, which means something that is heard, and Smriti, which mean memorizing. The Shruti texts are believed to have been divinely inspired as they were heard by the sages who spent long years in isolation. These s...