Many of the common features of the Hindu tradition are derived
from the scriptures known as the Vedas. The four Vedas (Rg, Sama,
Yajur, and Atharva) are considered by orthodox Hindus as revelation
and have a privileged authoritative status. Particular Hindu groups
regard many other texts as revelation, but the Vedas enjoy an almost
unanimous recognition as revealed knowledge. Each Veda may be
broadly divided into two sections. The first section of each text provides
information and rules for the performance of religious rituals.
The last section of each text contains a series of dialogues, known as