Veda

Veda. A collection of religious literature in Sanskrit dating from approximately 1200 bce and forming the foundation of the orthodox scriptures of Hinduism. The term ‘Veda’ derives from the Sanskrit root vid-, ‘to know’, and the texts are believed to be the repository of ultimate truth as revealed by the gods (deva) to the ancient seers. The Vedic scriptures are divided into four collections: the Ṛg Veda, the Yajur Veda, the Sāma Veda, and the Atharva Veda. Originally the Vedas were divided into two parts: mantras (verses or hymns of praise), and Brāhmaṇas (priestly commentaries on the ritual use of the texts). In the course of time appendages were added so that each of the Vedas in turn came to comprise four sections, namely Saṃhitā (the mantras organized into various categories), Brāhmaṇas (texts concerned with sacrificial ritual), Āraṇyakas (‘forest texts’ or esoteric teachings), and Upaniṣads (mystical treatises). Vedic religion believed in a plurality of gods (traditionally 33) to whom sacrifice should be offered, in return for which the gods bestow their favour and protection. Buddhism rejected the supremacy of the gods, teaching that sacrifice was ineffectual and that salvation could not be attained by divine intercession but only by following the Eightfold Path. It also rejected the practice of animal sacrifice and the caste system, both of which are legitimated by the Vedas.