In ancient Hindu religious texts, referring to something as “canonical” means it is part of a recognized set of sacred scriptures that form the foundation of Hindu beliefs, rituals, and practices. These canonical texts are widely accepted across Hindu traditions as authoritative sources of spiritual and philosophical teachings.
In Hinduism, the canonical texts primarily include the Vedas (Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda) and the Upanishads, which are considered shruti (revealed texts), meaning they were divinely revealed and passed down orally through generations. Other texts like the Ramayana, Mahabharata (which includes the Bhagavad Gita), and the Puranas are often revered and widely read, but they are considered smriti (remembered texts) rather than shruti, indicating a secondary level of authority compared to the Vedas.
The term “canonical” helps distinguish these foundational scriptures from later commentaries, interpretations, or texts not universally recognized across different Hindu schools or sects.
