Knowing God through religious texts - Hinduism
There are many sacred writings in Hinduism. The texts are a type of general revelationSomething is made known in a way that is available to all people.. Many Hindus believe that some of these texts were 鈥榟eard鈥 by rishis (Hindu scholars who have studied and teach the scriptures).
Many Hindus believe the most important sacred texts are the Vedas (the oldest Hindu scriptures). There are four Vedas still used by Hindus today:
- Sama Veda 鈥 a collection of poems that are chanted or sung
- Rig Veda 鈥 a collection of hymns dedicated to the ancient gods, eg Vayu (god of the wind) and Agni (god of fire)
- Atharva Veda 鈥 charms and spells for preservation and success, also some ancient hymns and some philosophy
- Yajur Veda 鈥 details about the performance of priestly rituals
Other important sacred texts include the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita.
All of these texts are highly respected by Hindus. They reveal something about the nature of BrahmanFor Hindus, Brahman is the ultimate reality 鈥 one 'Supreme Spirit' in many forms. Brahman is male, female and even animal. and reality, and they provide guidance about how to behave in this life in order to attain mokshaEscape from the cycle of reincarnation. Term used in the Hindu religion. .
I am the atman seated in the hearts of all beings; I am the beginning, the middle and also the end of all beings.