Thought 137: What are Srutis and Smritis

The ancient Rishis develped, over the millenia, a vast body of religious scriptures (Saastras) for Hinduism. This literature principally consists of Srutis and Smritis. Sruti is what is directly experienced by the Vedic seers during their contemplation or meditation; they represent the spiritual experiences of these Vedic seers.

In general, Srutis and Smritis represent the whole body of Hindu religious and spiritual knowledge and wisdom, which the Paramaatma wanted to pass on to the world through the ancient sages. All knowledge about Dharma originated from these Srutis and Smritis.

Vedas are Srutis. They are the foremost in authority, importance and antiquity. The Bhagavad Gita, which is a part of the Mahaabhaarataa, is sometimes called a summary of the spiritual teachings of the Vedas.

Smritis refer to what is remembered from the teachings of the ancient seers describing their spiritual experiences. Aagamas, Itihaasas and Puraanas are Smritis. Aagamas describe the rules for rituals, rites and worship of gods. There are five of them; for the worship of Ganesa, for the worship of Sakti, for the worship of Suurya, for the worship of Siva and for the worship of Vishnu. Itihaasas are epics – which are mythological stories, such as Raamaayana and Mahaabhaarata. Puraanas are moral stories. There are 18 Puraanas. Each Puraana upholds a moral value.

These scriptures (Srutis and Smritis) expound on theology, philosophy and mythology, providing spiritual insights and guidance on the practice of Dharma. Dharma means living a religious life performing all duties and other religious stipulations prescribed for a person in the Saastras. Sanaatna Dharma means Eternal Dharma; it is ever lasting Dharma. It also means universal religion.

The next thought is “More about the Vedas”