Question

Which of the following words literally means ``what was heard from above''?

• A. Dharma
• B. Yajur
• C. Sama
• D. Shruti

Hint:

Shruti = Heard (divine revelation), Smriti = Remembered (traditional texts).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: In Indian philosophy and Vedic literature, Shruti refers to sacred knowledge that was “heard” by ancient sages directly from divine revelation.

• Shruti means “that which is heard”.

• Includes the Vedas.

• Considered divine knowledge.
Step 1: Understand the literal meaning.
The Sanskrit root: \[ \text{Shru} = \text{to hear} \] So: \[ \text{Shruti} = \text{that which is heard} \]

Step 2: Relate to Vedic tradition.
Ancient sages received Vedic knowledge by: Divine hearing or revelation Hence it is called Shruti.

Step 3: Eliminate incorrect options.

• Dharma -- duty/righteousness

• Yajur -- a Veda

• Sama -- a Veda

• Shruti -- correct

Step 4: Final conclusion.
Hence, the correct answer is: \[ \boxed{\text{Shruti}} \]