The spelling of the word "Shruti" is derived from the Sanskrit language and can be pronounced as [ʃruːtɪ]. The first syllable is pronounced like "shrew" with a long vowel sound, followed by the sound of "tee" in the second syllable. The combination of the "sh" and "r" sounds in the first syllable requires a slight emphasis on the "r" sound. "Shruti" is a common Indian name and also refers to a specific concept in Hindu music theory, where it refers to the smallest interval of pitch used in Indian classical music.
Shruti is a Sanskrit term that carries deep cultural and musical significance. In Hinduism, it refers to the divine revelation of truth obtained by the seers through deep meditation, which is then passed down through generations without any alteration. It is considered the ultimate source of knowledge conveying eternal truths, religious texts, and the Vedas, which are the sacred scriptures of Hinduism.
The term Shruti also holds great importance in the field of Indian classical music. It represents one of the essential aspects of melody or pitch, wherein the concept of microtones and the relative positioning of notes are emphasized. Shruti serves as the foundation of proper intonation and tuning within the Indian musical system, known as the raga. It encompasses the various intervals between the notes and allows musicians to create rich and elaborate melodic structures.
The term Shruti can also be understood as the smallest audible increment of sound or the difference in pitch between two notes. It signifies the intricate variations and subtle distinctions in musical tones, contributing to the mood and emotional depth of a performance.
Overall, Shruti encompasses both a spiritual and musical essence, representing the divine revelation of truth in Hinduism and the fundamental concept of pitch and melodic embellishment in Indian classical music. Its significance extends beyond its mere dictionary definition, encompassing the deep cultural heritage and ancient wisdom of the Indian subcontinent.
The word "Shruti" has its roots in Sanskrit, an ancient Indo-Aryan language. In Sanskrit, "Shruti" (श्रुति) is derived from the verb "Shru" (श्रु), which means "to hear" or "to listen". It originally referred to the oral transmission of knowledge in ancient Indian texts known as the Vedas.
The Vedas are considered to be the oldest sacred texts in Hinduism and are believed to be divinely revealed. They were passed down orally from generation to generation, primarily through recitation and listening. The term "Shruti" therefore emphasizes the importance of listening and hearing the sacred knowledge contained in the Vedas.