Understanding the Hierarchical Place of Vedas and Upanishads in Hinduism

Hinduism, one of the oldest and most complex religions, is characterized by a rich spiritual heritage that includes various texts and philosophical teachings. Among these texts, the Vedas and the Upanishads hold significant importance. However, a common question arises: why are the Vedas often considered superior to the Upanishads in contemporary Hinduism, despite the Upanishads containing a wealth of philosophical insights and metaphysical wisdom?

Swami Vivekananda, known for his profound influence on modern Hinduism, addressed this issue in a letter to a follower in 1897. In his letter, he elucidates the distinctions between the Vedas and Upanishads and explains why the latter have gained prominence in contemporary times.

Swami Vivekananda's Perspective

Swami Vivekananda explains that the term 'Vedas' is often misunderstood to refer only to the Samhitas, or ritualistic portions. However, the true scope of the Vedas including the Samhitas, Brahmanas, and Upanishads. He mentions that the Samhitas and Brahmanas have been largely relegated to ceremonial practices, while the Upanishads have been the primary focus of philosophical inquiry and sectarian thought. The late Swami Dayananda argued that the Samhitas alone were the true Vedas, starting a new wave of interpretation, but this view has not significantly impacted the orthodox community.

Swami Vivekananda emphasizes the philosophical coherence of the Upanishads, asserting that a 'very consistent and harmonious faith can be based on the Upanishads and moreover, here one does not have to go against the already received national opinion'. He further suggests that the Upanishads offer a more straightforward and accessible path for new progress in religious thought.

Vedas and Upanishads: Divinity vs. Wisdom

The Vedas are often viewed as the voice of the Almighty, heard by sages and rishis from the impersonal, formless, and all-pervading Brahman. The Rigveda, in particular, is considered divine. On the other hand, the Upanishads are seen as the pinnacle of wisdom attained through inner contemplation on the Vedas and their mantras. They explore the nature of individual identity and the underlying cosmic truths.

The hierarchical placement of the Vedas and Upanishads in Hinduism reflects a logical progression from ritualistic practices to profound philosophical understanding. The Vedas provide the rites and rituals that are essential for daily life and spiritual practices, while the Upanishads offer the deeper, more metaphysical insights.

Contemporary Relevance

While the Bhagavad Gita has become the Bible of Hinduism, its divine figure, Krishna, is often obscured by modern interpretations, making it difficult for practitioners to derive inspiration from it. The Upanishads, therefore, offer a clear and direct path to self-realization that resonates more with the contemporary worldview.

The Upanishads provide a more accessible and relatable interpretation of the divine and the cosmic truths, making them more relevant to modern thinkers. They offer a philosophical framework that is not only coherent but also adaptable to the changing times. This adaptability has contributed to their prominence in contemporary Hindu thought.

Conclusion

The hierarchical status of the Vedas and Upanishads in Hinduism is a reflection of the religious and philosophical evolution of the tradition. While the Vedas are integral for ritualistic and spiritual practices, the Upanishads provide the metaphysical and philosophical depth that resonates with modern seekers. The blend of tradition and adaptability offered by the Upanishads has made them a cornerstone of contemporary Hindu philosophical thought.