चत्वारि वेदाः
The Four Vedas — Foundation of Hindu Wisdom
The oldest scriptures of humanity — over 19,000 hymns of cosmic knowledge, ritual wisdom, sacred music, and practical healing
What are the Vedas?
The Vedas (वेद) are the oldest and most authoritative scriptures of Hinduism, composed in Vedic Sanskrit between approximately 1500–500 BCE. The word “Veda” comes from the root vid, meaning “to know” — the Vedas are literally “knowledge” itself. They are considered Apaurusheya — not of human authorship, but revealed directly to the ancient Rishis (sages) during deep states of meditation.
There are four Vedas, each serving a distinct purpose in the Vedic tradition. Together, they form the bedrock upon which all of Hindu philosophy, ritual, music, medicine, and law is built. The Bhagavad Gita, the Ramayana, and the Mahabharata all draw heavily from Vedic concepts of dharma, karma, and moksha.
Each Veda contains four layers: Samhita (hymns and mantras), Brahmana (ritual commentaries), Aranyaka (forest texts for hermits), and Upanishad (philosophical conclusions). The Upanishads, in particular, contain the highest metaphysical teachings on the nature of Brahman (ultimate reality) and Atman (the self).
Explore Each Veda
Rig Veda
10 Mandalas · 10,552 Mantrasऋग्वेद
The oldest Veda — a collection of hymns to the cosmic forces. Contains the famous Nasadiya Sukta (Hymn of Creation) and Purusha Sukta.
Yajur Veda
40 Chapters · 1,666 mantrasयजुर्वेद
The Veda of sacred ritual — prose mantras and formulas for performing yajnas (fire sacrifices). The foundation of Karma Yoga.
Sama Veda
27 Chapters · 1,875 versesसामवेद
The Veda of song — melodic hymns that gave birth to Indian classical music. Krishna says: "Among the Vedas, I am the Sama Veda."
Atharva Veda
20 Kandas · 6,150 mantrasअथर्ववेद
The Veda of healing and protection — practical mantras for health, prosperity, and daily life. The foundation of Ayurveda.