vedism
Definition
Noun 1. An ancient religious system: Vedism refers to the early, ritualistic form of Hinduism that is directly based on and revolves around the sacred texts known as the Vedas. It emphasizes precise ritual performance, sacrificial ceremonies (yajna), and the mythic cosmology described in these texts.
Examples
- Noun:
- Scholars study Vedism to understand the earliest documented phase of Indian religious thought.
- The complex fire rituals are a central feature of Vedism.
- Vedism is considered the precursor to the more philosophically diverse Hinduism that developed later.
Advanced Usage
- In historical context: Vedism is often discussed in contrast to later Hindu traditions like Vedanta or Bhakti, highlighting its focus on external ritual rather than internal devotion or philosophical speculation.
- The transition from Vedism to classical Hinduism involved a significant shift from ritual-centric to deity-centric worship.
Variants and Related Words
- Vedic (adj): Pertaining to the Vedas or to Vedism.
- Vedic rituals, Vedic Sanskrit, the Vedic period.
- Veda (n): The oldest and most authoritative scriptures of Hinduism, forming the foundation of Vedism. The four main Vedas are the Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda.
Synonyms
- Vedic religion: A direct synonym emphasizing its basis in the Vedic texts.
- Brahmanism: Often used interchangeably with Vedism, though it can more specifically refer to the priestly (Brahminical) tradition within it.
Related Terms (Not Synonyms)
- Hinduism: The broader, modern religious tradition that evolved from and encompasses elements of Vedism, along with many later developments.
- Brahmin: The priestly class responsible for preserving and conducting Vedic rituals.
Noun
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the form of Hinduism that revolves primarily around the mythic version and ritual ideologies in the Vedas
