In Hinduism, Sanskrit texts in the ancient times are called Vedas. Religious texts in a large form originated in ancient India. Sanskrit literature in its oldest layer, constituted these ancient Sanskrit texts, called the Vedas. In Hinduism the oldest scriptures are termed as Vedas. Apauruseya is another name used by the Hindus, for Vedas. The term Apauruseya means, ‘authorless, impersonal, superhuman and not of a man’.
Veda is a Sanskrit word obtained from the root vid- ‘to know’. Vedas mean wisdom or knowledge. The meaning of Vedas is also ‘Sruti’ literature –which means what is heard. Other religious texts are distinguished by the word ‘Smrti’ – meaning what is remembered. According to orthodox theologians of India, ancient sages revealed the Vedas, after intense meditation. Since ancient times, these revelations called Vedas have been carefully preserved in India.
Lord Brahma is credited with the creation of Vedas, in Mahabharata, the popular Hindu epic. Sages or Rishis have created the Vedic hymn, very skillfully after including inspired creativity. Traditionally it is also believed that the four Samhitas (Collections) – the four kinds of mantras have been compiled by the compiler of Vedas named Sage Vyasa.
The Rigveda, the Yajurveda, the Samaveda and Atharvaveda are the four types of Vedas. Sub-classification of these 4 Vedas is done into the 4 major types of texts including – Upanishads (texts that discuss spiritual knowledge, philosophy and meditation), Samhitas (benedictions and mantras), Brahmanas (sacrifices, ceremonies, commentaries on rituals) and Aranyakas (text on symbolic-sacrifices, rituals, sacrifices and ceremonies). Another fifth category has been added by scholars called the ‘Upasanas (worship).
