smrti

The term smṛti refers to Hindu sacred texts considered to be of human origin, transmitted through memory and interpretation rather than divine revelation.

In Sanskrit, smṛti means “that which is remembered.” Within Hindu scriptural classification, smṛti refers to a large body of literature regarded as non-revealed, distinguishing it from śruti, which is believed to be divinely inspired. Smṛti texts are attributed to human sages or authors and hold a secondary status in terms of religious authority.

The smṛti corpus includes:

śāstras (technical or normative treatises);

dharmaśāstras (religious law codes, e.g., Manusmṛti);

Itihāsa (epic narratives such as the Mahābhārata and Rāmāyaṇa);

Purāṇas, mythological and cosmological accounts;

manuals on arts, architecture, rituals, and everyday practice.

Though not considered revealed, smṛti texts have had a profound impact on Hindu law, ethics, ritual life, and popular religious practice. They interpret, expand upon, or adapt the foundational śruti to specific social and historical contexts.