| Hinduism
is based primarily on the Vedas. Veda literally means
knowledge or wisdom. It is also called Shruti which means what
is heard or revealed. All other scriptures go under the
omnibus term of Smriti (what is remembered).
Shruti being divinely revealed to the great Rishis of yore in the
depths of their mystical experience, its authority is supreme.
Smritis are the secondary scriptures which derive their authority
from the Shruti. Their business is to explain, elaborate and
illustrate the fundamental teachings of the Shruti.
However, according to the Hindu view,
revelations are not limited to any individual, time or place. Just
as there have been revelations in the past, they can occur at
present or in future also. |
