The Sanskrit word “Veda” means "knowledge". Veda is derived from the root “Vid”, which means "to know". Vedas are the discoveries of the laws of nature, the laws governing the universe and also the laws about the beings living in it - and also about the Ultimate Truth (Paramaatma). The Veda Mantras are recited at Hindu prayers, religious functions and other auspicious occasions.
Hindus revere the Vedas as eternal truths - revealed to the ancient sages. They are the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism. Vedas are the main source of knowledge for the Hindus. All Hindu spiritual knowledge and also knowledge about Hindu gods and goddesses is derived from the Vedas. Vedas are not books composed by men in any period of history. Rather, they were revealed as the eternal truths to the ancient Rishis during their meditations. This is the reason why Vedas are called “Apaurusheya Grantha” meaning “not of human composition”; that is, they are authorless works. Later, Sage Veda Vyaasa compiled and codified them into four Vedas.
The four Vedas are Rig Veda, Yajur Veda, Saama Veda and Atharvana Veda. Of these, the first three are also called “Trayee", meaning "the triple sacred sciences" of - reciting hymns (Rig Veda), performing sacrifices (Yajur Veda) and chanting (Saama Veda).
The Rig Veda Mantras, which are verses of praise set in a metre, are intended for loud recitation. Yajur Veda Mantras are in prose and intended for recitation in a lower tone at sacrifices. Saama Veda Mantras, which are set in a lyrical metre, are intended for chanting at the Soma ceremonies.
The fourth Veda, Atharvana Veda, was added to the “Trayee” subsequently. The Atharvana Veda like the Rigveda, is a collection of hymns mixed with incantations. By a mere recitation of those Mantras, it is supposed to bring about long life, cures for diseases, the destruction of enemies, etc.
Each Veda is divided into four parts – namely, Samhita, Braahmana, Aranyakaa and Upanishads. Samhitaas are hymns containing sacred Mantras. The other three parts, which are Braahmans, Aranyakas (wilderness texts) and Upanishads are usually in prose. The first two parts are called the Karma Kaandaa (ritualistic portion), while the last two form the Jnaana Kaandaa (knowledge portion).
Vedas (Karma Kaanda) discuss Dharma comprising the laws governing the individual (Jeeva), the world (Jagat) and the Creator (Isvara) and their inter-relationship. The laws of Karma by which man can lead a successful life in this world are also discussed in detail in this portion of the Vedas. If you desire a particular result, the Karma Kaanda recommends the performance of certain rituals, which get you that very result. Karma Kaanda also tells you what you should do and what you should not do. It also tells you the consequences of violating the do’s and don’ts enjoined in it.
The next thought is “About Upanishads”
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