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Significance of Sacred writing

Sacred writing refers to texts that are considered holy and revered across various religions, serving as sources of moral and spiritual guidance. Key aspects include significant religious texts that provide teachings, laws, and philosophies, particularly within Hinduism as noted in the Purana and Vedanta. These writings influence followers' thoughts on guilt, punishment, and spiritual beliefs. In broader contexts, such as Theravada and historical accounts, sacred writings are crucial for imparting religious principles and teachings, recognized for their divine inspiration.

Synonyms: Holy scripture, Religious text, Scripture, Sacred text, Divine writing, Canonical text, Holy text, Holy writ

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Sacred writing'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Sacred writing refers to the religious texts introduced by Thera Mahinda, which played a crucial role in promoting the teachings of righteousness and moral conduct in Lanka.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Mahavamsa

(1) Religious texts imparted by the thera Mahinda that contributed to the teaching of righteousness in Lanka.[1]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Sacred writing'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Sacred writing encompasses various religious texts that provide moral guidance, spiritual teachings, and explanations of doctrines, rituals, and cosmic influences, underscoring their significance in shaping ethical perspectives and spiritual insights within the faith.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4

(1) Religious texts that provide moral and spiritual guidance, influencing followers' thoughts regarding guilt and punishment.[2] (2) Religious texts that hold spiritual significance, particularly in the context of Om and its meanings.[3]

From: Markandeya Purana

(1) Religious texts that mention and explain the consequences of planetary and astrological influences.[4]

From: Vishnu Purana

(1) The writings considered important and holy by the Hindus, embodying their religious teachings and rites.[5]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Arthashastra (politics and welfare):
Arthashastra Books

From: Hitopadesha (English translation)

(1) Religious or significant texts that provide moral guidance, which the King's sons were neglecting.[6]

Arthashastra literature concerns itself with the teachings (shastra) of economic prosperity (artha) statecraft, politics and military tactics. The term arthashastra refers to both the name of these scientific teachings, as well as the name of a Sanskrit work included in such literature. This book was written (3rd century BCE) by by Kautilya, who flourished in the 4th century BCE.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) The texts that contain spiritual or religious teachings, among which the Sanskrit text is categorized.[7]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu�).

The concept of Sacred writing in local and regional sources

History Books

Sacred writing encompasses texts deemed holy or divinely inspired across religions, serving as vital sources of spiritual guidance and reverence for followers, reflecting the profound significance and authority these texts hold within their respective traditions.

Significance in South Asia:
South Asia Books

From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)

(1) Text that is considered holy in various religions and is revered by followers.[8]

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) Texts considered holy or divinely inspired within various religious traditions, serving as sources of spiritual guidance.[9]

From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England

(1) The source of the three rules that govern the time of keeping Easter, which cannot be changed by any human authority.[10]

Plural form: Sacred writings.