Pronunciation: [vˈɛdəz] (IPA) 
The word "Vedas" refers to the ancient Hindu scriptures. It is spelled as /ˈveɪdəz/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The initial sound /v/ is followed by a long /eɪ/ sound and ends with a voiced /d/ sound. The final syllable has a short /ə/ sound and is pluralized with a /z/ sound. The spelling of the word "Vedas" has remained consistent throughout history and has become an important cultural icon in Hinduism even today.
The Vedas are a collection of ancient Hindu scriptures that are considered the oldest and most authoritative religious texts in Hinduism. Composed in Sanskrit, they encompass a vast body of knowledge and wisdom, exploring various aspects of philosophy, rituals, hymns, prayers, and spiritual insights. The word "Veda" translates to "knowledge" or "wisdom," reflecting their significance as a source of divine revelation for Hindus.
The Vedas are divided into four main texts: the Rigveda, the Yajurveda, the Samaveda, and the Atharvaveda. Each Veda consists of multiple sections, including Samhitas (collections of hymns and prayers), Brahmanas (prose explanations and rituals), Aranyakas (forest treatises), and Upanishads (philosophical and mystical teachings).
Scholars believe that the Vedas were composed between 1500 and 500 BCE, with their origins rooted in the ancient Indus Valley civilization. They were transmitted orally for centuries before being compiled in writing around 600 BCE. The Vedas serve as a foundation for Hindu theology and philosophy, influencing various schools of thought and spiritual practices within Hinduism.
The Vedas hold a central position in Hindu religious and cultural life, and their chanting and recitation continue to be an integral part of religious rituals and ceremonies. They provide insights into the nature of the divine, the universe, ethics, social order, and the paths to spiritual realization. The Vedas are regarded as not only religious texts but also a repository of ancient wisdom, guiding individuals on matters of morality, spiritual evolution, and the pursuit of enlightenment.
The anc. sacred literature of the Hindoos, or the Hindoo Scriptures; the four oldest sacred books of the Hindoos.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Vedas" has its roots in the Sanskrit language, one of the oldest Indo-European languages. The term "Vedas" is derived from the Sanskrit root word "vid", which means "to know" or "knowledge". The Vedas are a collection of ancient sacred texts in Hinduism, believed to be revealed knowledge. They are considered the oldest scriptures in Hinduism and are written in Vedic Sanskrit.
