Significance of Shrotriya
Shrotriya is a term encompassing individuals who are knowledgeable and well-versed in Vedic scriptures across various interpretations in Hindu tradition. It refers to learned Brahmanas deserving of respect, who have studied the Vedas and perform various sacrifices. Shrotriyas are seen as meritorious, contributing positively to society and particularly important in sacrificial honors. Their commitment to Vedic knowledge may sometimes come at the expense of personal well-being, as their focus on spiritual practices often distracts from health regimens.
In German: Shrotriya; In Finnish: Shrotriya; In Spanish: Shrotriya; In Dutch: Schrotriya
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Shrotriya'
Shrotriya in Hinduism denotes a knowledgeable Brahmana well-versed in Vedic scriptures, deserving of respect and offerings, who plays a crucial role in sacrificial rituals and whose expertise enriches societal and spiritual traditions.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Refers to a learned individual in Vedic literature, important in the context of sacrificial honors.[1] (2) A person learned in the Vedas and considered meritorious in society, whose involvement is believed to benefit a king.[2] (3) A term for someone learned in the Veda but may not necessarily have completed the entire text.[3] (4) Householders who are well-versed in the Veda and are accountable for their studies.[4]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) A knowledgeable student or a learned Brahmana, worthy of receiving offerings.[5]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A term referring to a learned person or scholar, whose death also invokes particular mourning practices outlined in the text.[6]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) A person who is learned in the Vedas and is not considered destitute of offspring.[7]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A learned Brahmana, or priest, to whom food is to be given following the offerings to gods, reflecting respect for knowledge and learning.[8]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) A Brahmana well-versed in the knowledge of the holy Vedas, deserving of respect and offerings.[9]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A term derived from the stem chandas through the addition of the suffix ghan, indicating a lack of resemblance to the corresponding sentence.[10]
From: Mundaka Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) Individuals who are knowledgeable and well-versed in the sacred texts and teachings pertaining to Brahman.[11]
The concept of Shrotriya in local and regional sources
Shrotriya refers to an individual deeply knowledgeable in the Shrutis and Vedas, embodying qualities of a true Guru. They are untainted by desire, representing the highest understanding of Brahman, emphasizing the significance of wisdom and integrity.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is someone who knows the secret of the Shrutis, meaning they have deep knowledge of the scriptures and are considered to be a true Guru.[12] (2) This is he who is versed in the Vedas, without taint, unhurt by desire, he who is the best of the knowers of Brahman, which shows the importance of knowledge and character.[13]