Vedas & Upanishads

Brahmanas are texts that describe the origin and importance of Vedic rituals. They are attached to the Samhita (hymns) portion of the Vedas, and together they are often referred to as karma-kanda. While the Brahmanas are not instruction manuals, they use mythology and legends to describe the significance of sacrifice rituals.

Aranyakas (‘Forest Books’) are texts similar to Brahmanas, in their focus on rituals. However, the philosophical inclination of Aranyakas was considered unsuitable for house-holders and more geared towards renunciates dwelling in the forests.The Aranyakas and the Upanishads are referred to as jnana-kanda.