88 89 General Introduction to the Hindu scriptures In Hinduism, the hierarchy of scriptures is often based on their perceived authority and antiquity. While there isn't a universally agreed-upon hierarchy, certain texts are generally considered more authoritative or primary than others. Here's a rough hierarchy based on traditional Hindu perspectives. The following compilation of Hindu scriptures is presented for the better understanding of European readers. 1. Vedas: The Vedas are considered the most authoritative and ancient scriptures in Hinduism. They are believed to be divinely revealed and are composed of four main collections: Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda. The Vedas contain hymns, rituals, and philosophical teachings. 2. Upanishads: The Upanishads are philosophical texts that are considered the culmination of Vedic thought. They explore the nature of reality, the self (Atman), and the ultimate reality (Brahman). Each Veda has its own set of associated Upanishads. 3. Bhagavad Gita: The Bhagavad Gita is a sacred text that is part of the Mahabharata, an epic poem. It is a dialogue between Lord Krishna and the warrior prince Arjuna, discussing duty, righteousness, and the nature of God. The Bhagavad Gita is highly revered for its spiritual and philosophical teachings. 4. Smriti Texts: Smriti texts are considered secondary scriptures and include a wide range of texts such as the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Puranas, Dharmashastras (legal texts), and other epics, myths, and legends. While not considered as authoritative as the Vedas and Upanishads, these texts are immensely popular and influential in Hindu culture and religious practice. 5. Puranas: The Puranas are a genre of texts that contain mythological narratives, cosmology, genealogies of gods and kings, and descriptions of religious rituals and practices. They are numerous in number and often serve as a source of popular mythology and folklore. Ecological Perspective of Texts The deep connection between Mother Nature (Prakriti) and Hinduism is intrinsic, making it difficult to consider one without the other. Within Hindu scriptures like the Vedas, Upanishads, Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas, there's a consistent emphasis on the importance of maintaining ecological balance. The Bhagavad Gita further underscores this message, depicting reverence towards Mother Nature, often referred to as Bhumi Devi, and Earth, known as Dharti Mata or Prithvi. This reverence extends beyond religious rituals practiced at home or in temples; it's meant to permeate our daily lives, guiding our interactions with the natural world. From the Vedas Rig Veda: • “May the wind waft to us the grateful medicament; may mother earth, may father heaven, (convey) it (to us); may the stones that express Soma, and are productive of plural asure (bring) it (to us); Aśvins, who are to be meditated upon, hear (our submission).” (Rig Veda 1.89.4) This verse from the Rig Veda is a prayer seeking healing and blessings from various elements of nature. First, it mentions the wind, asking it to bring medicine that can make you feel better. The wind is like a messenger, carrying important things from one place to another. Then, it talks about mother earth and father heaven. Mother earth is like the ground beneath our feet, and father heaven is like the sky above us. Together, they make up the world around us, and we're asking for their help in bringing healing to us. Next, it mentions special stones that are associated with a sacred drink called Soma. These stones are believed to have special powers, and we're asking for their help too. Finally, it calls upon the Aśvins, who are divine twin brothers known for their healing powers. By meditating on them, we're asking for their help and blessings. So, this verse is like a heartfelt prayer to nature and the divine, asking for their help and blessings to bring healing and comfort to those who are in need. It shows how people in ancient times believed in the power of nature and the divine to provide for their needs and bring relief in times of trouble. • One should protect the habitation. (Rig Veda 6.71.3) • Plants and waterways are treasures for generations (Rig Veda Samhita 7.70.4) Atharva Veda: In the Atharva Veda, Kanda 12, the entire Sukta 1 is The Song of Mother Earth. There are 63 Mantras.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzM2NTQ=