108 Upanishads
The number of Upanishads can vary in different lists, but traditionally, there are said to be 108 Upanishads. However, the exact number and the inclusion of specific Upanishads in this count can vary. The Upanishads are ancient Indian philosophical texts that explore the nature of reality, the self (Atman), and the ultimate reality (Brahman). Here […]
Brahmanas
The Brahmanas are a genre of ancient Indian religious texts that form part of the Vedas, the sacred scriptures of Hinduism. These texts are closely associated with the ritualistic aspects of Vedic practices, providing detailed explanations and instructions for performing various ceremonies and sacrifices. The term “Brahmana” is derived from the Sanskrit root “brahman,” which […]
Samhitas
The Samhitas are the most ancient and fundamental texts of the Vedas, which are the oldest sacred scriptures of Hinduism. The term “Samhita” is derived from the Sanskrit root “sam,” meaning “together,” and “hit,” meaning “put.” The Samhitas are collections of hymns, chants, prayers, and mantras that form the core of Vedic literature. There are […]
The Aranyakas
The Aranyakas are a category of ancient Indian texts that form part of the Vedas, the sacred scriptures of Hinduism. The word “Aranyaka” is derived from “aranya,” which means “forest” or “wilderness.” These texts are associated with the forest-dwelling hermitages where sages and ascetics would retreat for meditation and contemplation. The Aranyakas serve as a […]
Upanishad
The Upanishads are a collection of ancient Indian philosophical texts that form the core of Vedanta, one of the six orthodox schools of Hindu philosophy. The word “Upanishad” is derived from “upa” (near), “ni” (down), and “shad” (to sit), suggesting the idea of sitting down near a teacher to receive esoteric knowledge. ETYMOLOGY ‘Upa’ means […]
How to attain Atman
Attaining knowledge of Atman and realizing one’s true nature is a central goal in Hindu philosophy. Different paths, known as yogas, are prescribed in Hinduism to attain self-realization and connect with the Atman. Here are some traditional paths to attain Atman: Jnana Yoga (Path of Knowledge): Study and Contemplation: Jnana Yoga involves the pursuit of […]
Atman
In Hinduism, “Atman” refers to the individual self or soul. It is a central concept in Hindu philosophy and spirituality. The idea of Atman is closely associated with the broader concept of Brahman, which is the ultimate, unchanging reality or cosmic spirit that underlies and unites the diversity of the world. In Hinduism, the concept […]