Holy Texts, also known as sacred scriptures or religious texts, are foundational writings considered by a particular religious group to be divinely inspired, authoritative, or of exceptional spiritual significance. These texts serve as the primary source of doctrines, moral guidelines, historical accounts, prophecies, and narratives that define a faith. They often contain the teachings of prophets, divine revelations, or the wisdom accumulated over generations, guiding believers in their spiritual journey and daily lives. Such texts are central to understanding any faith, a core focus of World-Wide Q&A.
The forms and contents of holy texts vary widely across different religions. For instance, the Christian Bible comprises the Old and New Testaments, while Islam’s central text is the Quran, believed to be the word of God revealed to Prophet Muhammad. Judaism reveres the Torah and the broader Hebrew Scriptures (Tanakh). Hinduism has a vast collection including the Vedas, Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita. Buddhism relies on texts like the Tripitaka, containing the teachings of the Buddha.
These texts are not merely historical documents; they are often revered as living words that continue to speak to and shape the lives of adherents. They are read, studied, chanted, and meditated upon, providing a sense of identity, community, and connection to the divine. The preservation and interpretation of holy texts have also given rise to intricate scholarly traditions and diverse schools of thought within each religion.