Hindu Sacred Texts
Explore the vast collection of Hindu scriptures and philosophical works
Major Hindu Texts
The Vedas
The oldest sacred texts of Hinduism, composed in Vedic Sanskrit.
Key Features:
- Four collections
- Mantras and hymns
- Ritual instructions
- Philosophical discussions
Available Languages:
Study Resources:
Translations
- Ralph T.H. Griffith Translation
- Harvard Oriental Series
- Sacred Books of the East
Commentaries
- Traditional Bhashyas
- Modern Interpretations
- Academic Studies
Study Guides
- Introduction to Vedic Sanskrit
- Vedic Chanting Guide
- Ritual Manuals
The Upanishads
Philosophical texts that form the theoretical basis for Hindu religion.
Key Features:
- Principal Upanishads
- Philosophical dialogues
- Spiritual teachings
- Metaphysical inquiries
Available Languages:
Study Resources:
Translations
- S. Radhakrishnan Translation
- Max Müller Edition
- Patrick Olivelle Translation
Commentaries
- Adi Shankara's Commentary
- Modern Interpretations
- Academic Analysis
Study Guides
- Introduction to Vedanta
- Key Concepts Guide
- Study Companion
The Puranas
Ancient stories containing the mythology and philosophy of Hinduism.
Key Features:
- Eighteen major Puranas
- Mythological stories
- Genealogies
- Religious instruction
Available Languages:
Study Resources:
Translations
- Motilal Banarsidass Edition
- MLBD Series
- Digital Library of India
Commentaries
- Traditional Commentaries
- Modern Interpretations
- Academic Studies
Study Guides
- Introduction to Puranas
- Mythological Guide
- Historical Context
Textual Categories
Shruti (Revealed Texts)
Texts considered to be directly revealed by the divine, including the Vedas and Upanishads.
Rig Veda
Collection of hymns to various deities
Sama Veda
Musical arrangements of Rigvedic texts
Yajur Veda
Prose mantras for rituals
Smriti (Remembered Texts)
Texts composed by sages based on their understanding and memory of eternal truths.
Bhagavad Gita
Philosophical dialogue on dharma and duty
Mahabharata
Epic narrative containing moral and philosophical teachings
Ramayana
Epic story of Rama embodying dharmic ideals
Darshanas (Philosophical Systems)
Systematic philosophical schools of Hindu thought.
Vedanta Sutras
Systematic exposition of Upanishadic philosophy
Yoga Sutras
Classical text on yoga philosophy and practice
Nyaya Sutras
Treatise on logic and epistemology
Additional Study Resources
- Digital Sanskrit Library - Comprehensive collection of Sanskrit texts and manuscripts.
- Vedic Knowledge Online - Educational platform for studying Hindu scriptures.
- Hindu Philosophy Research Center - Academic resources and research tools.
Study Guidelines
- Begin with reliable translations and commentaries
- Study with qualified teachers (gurus) when possible
- Understand the historical and cultural context
- Practice meditation and contemplation
- Engage with living traditions and communities