Basic Notions of Upanishads and Their Impact on Indian Philosophy and Religion

Abstract

Hindu holy literature is composed of several texts. Vedic literature is divided by tradition into two categories: Shruti that is heard (revelation) and Smriti that is remembered (not revelation). The Upanishads are part of the Shruti. They have special place and importance in this rich literature. Because, Upanishads are remarkable with respect to the content and contains new religious and philosophic thoughts. In this respect, theological bases of the concepts such as karmareincarnation and Moksha which are the keystones of Hinduism take place firstly in Upanishad texts. On the other hand, some thoughts presented by Upanishads have deeply affected Hindu culture and philosophy. Thus effects of Upanishad texts on Hindu religious beliefs, culture and philosophy are still prevailing today