Significance of Sacred text
Synonyms: Holy scripture, Religious text, Sacred writing, Scripture, Divine word, Canonical text, Sacred literature, Holy writ, Holy book, Canon, Divine writing, Sacred writing.
In Dutch: Heilige tekst; In Finnish: Pyhä teksti; In Spanish: Texto sagrado; In Portugese: Texto sagrado; In German: Heiliger Text; In Malay: Teks suci; In Swedish: Helig text; In French: Texte sacré; In Italian: Testo sacro; In Polish: Święty tekst
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 text'
Sacred texts in Buddhism encompass various writings, including scriptures, teachings, and historical accounts, revered for their guidance and wisdom. They are studied, recited, and translated, holding spiritual significance and shaping beliefs and practices within the Buddhist tradition.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Scriptures and religious writings studied by brahmins, representing a pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment.[1] (2) Refers to the scriptures that Rama-pandita understands and uses to articulate the doctrine of impermanence.[2] (3) The holy scriptures that contain the teachings of the Buddha, which Great Wayman comes to know completely.[3] (4) The religious scriptures that the young brahmin was required to memorize and recite, ultimately reflecting his spiritual learning.[4] (5) Religious scriptures that guide ethical and moral conduct, as referenced in the king’s inquiries.[5]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) Writings considered holy and authoritative in Buddhism, which include teachings and guidelines for practitioners.[6] (2) Religious writings that hold spiritual significance in Buddhism.[7] (3) Writings that are revered within Buddhism, providing guidance, teachings, and historical accounts important to the understanding of the religion.[8] (4) Religious writings that hold spiritual significance in Buddhism.[9]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The texts that contain the teachings of the Buddha, which the young monk neglects due to his discontentment.[10] (2) The texts recited by monks, including the Mahasatipatthana Sutta.[11] (3) Literature that is revered or considered holy, specifically referring to the writings associated with Buddhism.[12] (4) Holy writings that are revered in Buddhism, which Samanera Sanu recited during his stay at the monastery.[13]
From: Mahavamsa
(1) Refers to the religious scriptures consulted by the brahmans, indicating the cultural context of the characters.[14]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) Religious writings that the guilty Samana engages with, demonstrating his effort in spiritual learning despite wrongdoing.[15]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Holy writings that are revered in religious traditions, which the child recited as part of his practice.[16] (2) Religious texts that hold significant spiritual value and are often recited or studied within the context of Buddhism.[17] (3) The Buddhist scriptures which Rinchen Zangpo translated, preserving and disseminating Buddhist teachings.[18] (4) Refers to the various important writings, such as the Bodhisattvacaryavatara, that Phagmodrupa encountered during his studies.[19] (5) Sacred texts are writings that are revered and considered authoritative within a religious tradition, guiding the beliefs and practices of its followers.[20]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A text that holds spiritual significance, exemplified by the Veda, which is described as eternal and all-pervading.[21]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Scriptures and writings that convey the teachings of Buddhism and its principles, respected by both the bhikshu and the followers.[22] (2) Writings outlining religious rules that the householders believed required animal sacrifices.[23] (3) Eighteen great holy texts that some claim the Buddha has not spoken of.[24] (4) Refers to texts like the four Agamas and Mahayanasutras that are central to Buddhist teachings.[25] (5) Refers to the scriptures that contain the recorded teachings of the Buddhas and embody the mystical effects attributed to dharani.[26]
From: The gods of northern Buddhism
(1) The written scriptures and teachings that guide the beliefs and practices of Buddhists, which monks study and copy.[27] (2) Varieties of written works within Buddhism that are viewed as holding spiritual significance, often inscribed in prayer wheels.[28]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The holy writings recognized in Buddhism, which include the Mahavastu as part of the broader religious literature.[29]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) Holy writings within Buddhism, noted for being viewed as error-free and fundamental to the teachings accepted across various Tibetan schools.[30]
From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)
(1) Religious scriptures considered holy and authoritative within a particular faith, in this context referring to Buddhism.[31]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) The Jain story describes King Kumarapala’s horror at the thought of these being written on paper.[32] (2) This refers to religious writings, which are studied, and are a focus of research and analysis in the context of the history of religions.[33] (3) These were writings that Xuanzang famously gathered from the Buddha’s homeland, along with images and relics, to be brought back to China for devotees.[34] (4) It is important to examine the agents who transmitted these sacred texts through the ages.[35]
Hindu concept of 'Sacred text'
In Hinduism, sacred texts encompass a vast range of writings, including the Vedas, Puranas, and Smritis. They serve as guides for spiritual knowledge, ethical teachings, rituals, and practices, providing insights into Brahman, devotion, and liberation.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) Sacred texts are utterances made by the Twice-born in a loud voice, contributing to the subduing of the titans.[36] (2) Religious scriptures that were not recited during the time of mourning for Rama, indicating a lack of normalcy.[37] (3) Religious scriptures recited by Tara as a part of the customary farewell, wishing Bali triumph in battle.[38] (4) Religious documents that provide instructions for the ceremonial installation of a king, followed during Bibishana's rise to power.[39] (5) Refers to the hymns and prayers recited by Ravana in an attempt to appease Mahadeva, demonstrating the significance of rituals in seeking divine favor.[40]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Holy scriptures that contain the teachings and mantras believed to lead individuals toward spiritual liberation.[41] (2) Religious scriptures that document spiritual doctrines and practices, considered key to understanding the paths to salvation and virtue.[42] (3) The Vedas, which contain the eternal religion promulgated by the Grandsire after the creation of the universe.[43]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Religious writings that hold spiritual significance and provide guidance in the practice of Yoga.[44] (2) A holy scripture or writing that reveals spiritual truths, in this case referring to the concept that 'all is Brahma'.[45] (3) Religious scriptures that provide guidance and teachings on the nature of existence and spirituality.[46]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A written work or scripture that holds religious significance, such as the Padma Purana itself and the Bhagavad Gita.[47] (2) The source materials and ancient authorities referenced within the Markandeya Purana to fill gaps in the Mahabharata.[48] (3) Scriptures that grant divine qualities to ordinary actions, such as drinking sanctified water for progeny.[49]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) Knowledgeable writings that Vashishtha was skilled in and used to instruct Prince Rama about the necessary steps of the fast.[50] (2) The Brahmans loved to pore over this and Vedic lore, indicating a focus on religious knowledge and the study of holy scriptures.[51] (3) Holy writings or scriptures that guide religious practices, indicating the spiritual importance of rituals.[52]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) Religious scriptures that the king is acknowledged for knowing, significant in the context of healing the elephant.[53] (2) Religious writings that include the Vedas and other scriptures, which Devasharman was proficient in.[54]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) Writings considered holy in Hinduism, including the Vedas, Puranas, and Smritis, which convey spiritual and ethical teachings.[55]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The religious texts which were recited during the marriage ceremony to invoke blessings and affirm the union.[56]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The Vedas and Puranas are considered sacred texts that encapsulate the spiritual, philosophical, and moral instructions for living a virtuous life.[57]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The holy scriptures, including the Vedas, that contain spiritual knowledge and guidelines for performance of rituals and moral conduct.[58]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) A revered scripture that holds spiritual significance and is considered authoritative within a religion.[59]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A revered scripture that holds spiritual significance, such as the Devi Bhagavatam, which conveys profound teachings and moral guidance.[60]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) These are recited along with the Rakshoghna mantras, the Pitri-mantras and the Purushasukta during the rite.[61] (2) Literary works considered holy or authoritative in a religious context, guiding spiritual and ethical practices.[62] (3) Refers to the Vedas, which are ancient religious scriptures that require respect and proper conduct during study.[63] (4) The religious writings that contain the doctrines and teachings that guide the duties of individuals.[64] (5) The authoritative religious scriptures that provide guidelines on practices like Niyoga and family lineage.[65]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) Writings that hold religious significance and are recited or referred to during ceremonies.[66] (2) Authoritative scriptures that form the basis of rituals and moral guidance in spiritual practices.[67] (3) Religious writings considered authoritative and foundational in spiritual practice.[68] (4) Mantras or verses recited during the rituals, intended for various deities during offerings.[69] (5) Vedic scriptures that provide guidelines and teachings for rituals and spiritual practices.[70]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) They are muttered along with suppressing breath, reciting purificatory texts, giving gifts, and making burnt-oblations, which leads to freedom from crimes causing loss of caste.[71] (2) Religious scriptures that can be recited mentally to promote purification and spiritual growth.[72] (3) The religious writings recited during marriage or other important ceremonies that uphold cultural and spiritual significance.[73] (4) Religious scriptures and writings that provide laws and guidance, but do not purify those with bad moral conduct.[74]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) The repetition of these texts for learning purposes is subject to certain prohibitions, but their application at sacrifices is not.[75] (2) Religious scriptures which the individual may mentally repeat, especially after midnight.[76]
From: Gautama Dharmasutra
(1) Holy writings recited during rituals, which in this context express feelings of being defiled by lust.[77] (2) A key scripture or verse recited during rituals, such as the Rig-veda, associated with offerings and penances.[78]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) The specific verses or texts that are recited during the Ashtaka rituals, which accompany the offerings made to deities.[79] (2) Holy scriptures in Hinduism that guide spiritual practice, rituals, and ethics.[80]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) The revered writings within Hinduism that encompass spiritual, philosophical, and ethical teachings critical for religious practices.[81] (2) The writings and scriptures that hold spiritual significance and are recited for personal reflection and invocation.[82]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A religious or spiritual text that holds significance during the rituals, particularly those dedicated to deities like Rudra and the Manes.[83]
From: Apastamba Yajna-paribhasa-sutras
(1) Writings or scriptures that contain the rules and instructions for carrying out sacrificial acts and other religious rites.[84]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) Refers to the various Vedas and other scriptures mentioned, including Rig-veda, Yajur-veda, Sama-veda, Atharva-veda, Itihasa, and Purana.[85]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) These are the texts in which the offering called aveshti is mentioned under the heading of the rajasuya-sacrifice, and the text indicates that this offering is to be taken out from that heading.[86] (2) This is a type of evidence that supports the idea that the same soul rises again. The text references specific passages from Vedic writings to illustrate this point, providing further support for the continuity of the soul.[87] (3) The attributes which the sacred text ascribes to the bhuman align with the highest Self, indicating a connection between the text's descriptions and the nature of the ultimate reality.[88] (4) The sacred text is the Upanishads, which contain chapters of similar contents, which are studied to determine the meditation on Brahman, as detailed in the text.[89] (5) Refers to religious scriptures from which teachings and interpretations about speech and the mind are derived.[90]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) Nor does this view imply that the sacred texts have no object at all; for it is their object to put an end to the view of difference springing from avidya, as stated in the text.[91] (2) Religious literature that guides meditative practices and helps in forming the understanding of spiritual concepts.[92] (3) Written works that hold spiritual significance, here discussing their meaning and interpretation regarding sacrifice.[93] (4) The sacred texts concerned with the Self declare that the Self does not engage in actions; rather, it is the gunas that perform actions.[94] (5) The religious or philosophical writings that provide guidance on rituals, meditation, and the understanding of spiritual practices.[95]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) These sources of wisdom and guidance, along with traditional recollections, emphasize that the genuine understanding cannot be achieved through the act of focused contemplation.[96] (2) Religious scriptures (shruti) that convey essential knowledge regarding spirituality and the nature of reality.[97] (3) Sacred texts refer to the Vedas, which contain the truths that are ascertained through the process of vijnana.[98] (4) Scriptures or writings considered holy or authoritative within a spiritual tradition.[99]
From: Ishavasya Upanishad with Shankara Bhashya (Sitarama)
(1) Refers to the holy script that holds significant religious and philosophical meaning within Hinduism.[100]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) A reference to the Sruti, which serves as a spiritual guide and encompasses teachings for aspirants at different understanding levels.[101]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The scriptures referenced in the text that support the claims about the identity of the released soul and Brahman.[102]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Refers to the mentions of Prana, Bhuh, Bhuvah, and Svah, which are elements of spiritual focus for conceptual turning by the speaker.[103]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) A literary work regarded as holy or authoritative in religious traditions.[104]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) Referring to the verse and associated commentary which hold spiritual significance and convey essential philosophical teachings.[105]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) Recitation of the texts, the brahmana utters 'Om' when about to recite them, which is also used to start the recitation when one is wishing to learn Brahman, the Veda.[106]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The verses mention that the explanation of the Lord's nature and glories can be found in the Vedas, indicating the sacred texts as a source of profound wisdom and insight into the divine truths.[107] (2) These, including the Vedas and the Shrimad Bhagavatam, assert that devotion to the Supreme Being is the greatest treasure.[108] (3) A written work considered holy or divinely inspired, often utilized for spiritual guidance.[109] (4) A revered writing that is accepted as authoritative in a religious tradition.[110] (5) The religious scriptures that contain teachings, hymns, and philosophies central to spiritual understanding and practices.[111]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Sacred texts, like the Skanda Purana, illustrate the significance of entreaties and directing appeals to the Lord as a path to liberation.[112] (2) Writings that hold religious significance and authority in a faith tradition, in this case, referring to the Vishnu Purana.[113] (3) A religious or holy scripture that holds spiritual significance and provides guidance and teachings for followers.[114] (4) The authoritative writings that provide spiritual knowledge, guidance, and laws in the Hindu tradition.[115] (5) A religious scripture that provides spiritual guidelines and teachings.[116]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) These are devotional books that expound loving service to the Lord, which the individual also heard from, expanding their knowledge.[117] (2) Refers to the Vedas and Puranas which are considered Brahma's family and embody significant knowledge.[118] (3) Writings that serve as the foundational guides for spiritual practice and understanding within the context of faith.[119] (4) Writings that express the principles of bhakti and provide insights into the nature of devotion and the divine.[120]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Religious writings or scriptures that are revered within the spiritual tradition, providing wisdom and knowledge that aid in understanding the nature of God.[121] (2) Refers to texts like Itihasas and Puranas that explain and elucidate issues in the Vedas.[122] (3) Writings that are regarded as holy or divine, which attempt to praise the Lord but cannot fully express His glory.[123]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Refers to the spiritual literature from which the teachings are derived.[124] (2) Holy scriptures or literary works that are considered important in spiritual practices.[125] (3) Connected to 'Vedas', this represents the historical religious documents that form the foundation of Hindu philosophy and practices.[126]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) Scriptures that bear witness to the realisations of pure souls and guide spiritual practice.[127]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) The religious scriptures that describe the characteristics and expectations of a true guru in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition.[128]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) Scriptures that contain the teachings and principles of religion, revered by followers.[129]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Text containing guidelines, teachings, and philosophies related to spiritual practices and divine love.[130]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Ancient religious writings that include references to eunuchs and practices related to them.[131] (2) Religious or spiritual writings that convey significant themes, such as the principles of life and sustenance depicted through the act of sprinkling water.[132] (3) Religious literature that contains the detailed descriptions and guidance for the performance of the ashvamedha, including the Rig-Veda and the Brahmanas.[133]
From: Harsha-charita
(1) Religious writings or scriptures that hold significant meaning and authority within a faith tradition.[134]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The formulations used during the sacrifices, containing prayers and blessings intended to invoke divine support and protection.[135] (2) These are the metres or verses that are invoked during the sacrificial rite, serving as a connection to the divine.[136] (3) The specific prayers uttered during the offerings, believed to carry power and intention behind the rituals.[137] (4) Refers to the scriptures that provide the foundation for understanding and performing rituals within the cultural and religious context of the text.[138]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) Literature concerning the Brahman that provides knowledge on spiritual matters.[139] (2) Writings that convey spiritual teachings, beliefs, and rituals related to the practices discussed, emphasizing different methods and opinions.[140]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) The foundational literature that supports the knowledge derived from testimony (shruta).[141]
From: Tiruvacakam Part I
(1) Scriptures that guide worship practices, providing rules and insights on how to commune with the divine.[142]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) Refers to the shastra, which contains religious teachings that guide appropriate behaviors and rituals.[143] (2) Religious or holy writings that hold authoritative significance and are subject to interpretation regarding their meanings and effects.[144]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) These are texts that are read as one of the exercises that improves the mother’s and the baby’s physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.[145]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) The scriptures that provide guidance and rules for spiritual rituals and practices.[146]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) A recitative mantra, specifically 'Om amritodbhavaya Svaha,' to be uttered before the incineration of iron.[147]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) Religious scriptures recited as forms of worship to seek protection from negative planetary influences.[148]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) The religious scriptures that provide guidance and instructions for practices, including the moral dimensions of Dharma.[149]
Jain concept of 'Sacred text'
In Jainism, Sacred text encompasses a range of religious writings. These texts dictate rules, convey teachings, guide seekers, and offer spiritual knowledge. They are authoritative, detailing conduct, philosophy, and historical narratives, while also guiding worship and devotion.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The study of sacred texts is one of the inner austerities, alongside confession and penance, service to others, reverence, indifference to the body, and pure meditation.[150] (2) Religious writings that are considered holy and authoritative in spiritual matters.[151] (3) Refers to the four Vedas and their supplements that Kapila became conversant with and later taught.[152] (4) Ancient scriptures which dictate the rules and regulations regarding the consumption of food by monks.[153]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The writings that convey and expound the teachings of the Lord and the true religion.[154] (2) Religious writings that hold significant spiritual importance and authority.[155] (3) Refers to religious writings that hold great significance, found in Jainism, and are often translated for wider accessibility.[156]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) The ancient scriptures that hold spiritual significance and provide guidance for monks.[157] (2) Writings that convey spiritual truths and moral guidelines, as taught by Mahavira to his followers.[158] (3) The religious writings that contain the teachings and doctrines of the spiritual path.[159]
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) Writings considered as authoritative within Jainism that provide guidance on conduct, philosophy, and historical narratives.[160] (2) Religious writings that are of significant importance in teachings and conduct.[161]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) The holy scriptures that embody the teachings and doctrines of Jainism.[162]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) Religious or spiritual writings that convey teachings to guide behavior and understanding.[163]
The concept of Sacred text in local and regional sources
Sacred text encompasses religious scriptures like the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Vedas. These writings provide philosophical foundations, guidance, and inspiration for various faiths, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Bon traditions, shaping beliefs, practices, and spiritual connections.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Religious scriptures such as the Upanishads and Puranas that provide philosophical foundations for the narratives found in the Adhyatma Ramayana.[164] (2) Religious scriptures that form the basis of beliefs and practices within a religion, referenced as a source for understanding Hindu sects.[165] (3) The Bhagavadgita is referred to as such by Jagan, symbolizing its importance in his life despite his inconsistent application of its teachings.[166] (4) Holy writings that embody religious teachings and cultural significance, pivotal in the context of Hindu literature.[167] (5) Refers to the Bhagavad-Gita, revered among worshippers of Vishnu for inspiring pure devotion and love for the Lord.[168]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Mantra is a special word or sacred text, or name of God chosen by the Guru for repetition and reflection by the disciple, which is used to aid in the spiritual practice and to connect with the divine.[169]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The Vedas and Shastras do not fully grasp the extraordinary power of a bhakta.[170]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) Writings or scriptures that are significant in the context of the religious teachings being discussed.[171] (2) Religious writings deemed holy and authoritative within Buddhism, which Fa-Hian sought to find and learn about during his travels.[172]
The concept of Sacred text in scientific sources
Sacred texts, in this context, involve a mediator providing a literal translation of the original text, bridging the gap between the reader and the sacred work.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) Among the prominent trends in modern Hebrew literature are the demythization, re-mythization, and secularization of the sacred text, reflecting changing attitudes towards religion.[173] (2) ´Sridhara accords to the Bhagavata a privileged position above other texts, a stance that likely contributed to the Bhagavata’s meteoric rise as the preeminent scripture.[174] (3) religious or spiritual writings that individuals engage with as part of their participation, contributing to the assessment of their involvement.[175] (4) This refers to the written or oral religious texts that guide communities of faith, and which may come into conflict with enacted laws, creating confusion and complications for believers.[176] (5) According to the text, some of Leibniz's comments were informed by correspondents and writers, some of whom had read the sacred texts of Islam.[177]
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) Sacred texts of Islam and Christianity contain foundational principles such as love of God and love of neighbor, serving as a common ground between the two faiths.[178] (2) Soroush implicitly aims at deconstructing the foundations in order to suspend the transcendental signified entity in the Holy Text through his prophetic dream theory.[179] (3) Sacred texts such as the Quran are full of true stories that connect with the reader on a deeper level, which constitute a considerable part of these texts.[180] (4) Serve as the central source of information in theology, influencing the development of theological explanations, and are subject to changing interpretations over time.[181] (5) Sacred texts address the complicated questions of the real cause of violence and are a way to control the friction that exists within communities.[182]
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) These are writings that are considered to be holy or divinely inspired within a particular religious tradition, often serving as a source of guidance and authority.[183]
Classical concept of 'Sacred text'
From: The Literature of the Ancient Egyptians
(1) The provided text says the priest thrust his magic into the most sacred of texts, suggesting the power and importance of religious writings.[184]