Vedham

Vedham, often transliterated as Vedam, is a Sanskrit word that literally means "knowledge." More specifically, it refers to the oldest layer of Sanskrit literature and the foundational texts of Hinduism. These texts are believed by many Hindus to be apauruṣeya, meaning "not of human agency" and are considered to be divinely revealed to ancient Rishis (seers).

The Vedham consists of four main Samhitas (collections):

• Rigveda: The oldest and most important Veda, a collection of hymns, prayers, and chants primarily addressed to various deities.

• Samaveda: A collection of melodies and chants, largely derived from the Rigveda, intended to be sung during sacrifices.

• Yajurveda: A collection of prose mantras and formulas intended to be recited by priests during sacrificial rites. It exists in two main recensions: Shukla (white) and Krishna (black).

• Atharvaveda: A collection of spells, incantations, hymns, and philosophical speculations, often dealing with everyday concerns and healing.

Each Samhita is further divided into four sections:

• Samhitas: The core collection of mantras and hymns.
• Brahmanas: Prose texts that explain the rituals and ceremonies associated with the Samhitas, providing interpretations and instructions.
• Aranyakas: "Forest texts" that serve as a bridge between the Brahmanas and the Upanishads, containing philosophical and symbolic interpretations of the rituals, intended for hermits and ascetics.
• Upanishads: Philosophical texts that explore the nature of reality, the self (Atman), and the ultimate reality (Brahman), focusing on spiritual liberation (moksha).

The Vedham is considered shruti (that which is heard), distinguishing it from other Hindu scriptures classified as smriti (that which is remembered). It forms the basis of various schools of Hindu philosophy and continues to be studied and revered by many Hindus today.