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In Hinduism , an enormous collection of Sanskrit scriptures which, along with the Vedas , are revered as śruti (revealed scripture). Their dating is uncertain. They were part of an oral tradition of unknown antiquity which some experts consider as ancient as the earliest Vedas, 5000 to 6000 bce. The Agamas are the primary source and authority for ritual, Yoga and Temple construction. Each of the major denominations— Shaivism , Vaishnavism and Shaktism —has its unique Agama texts. Smarta s recognize the Agamas, but don't necessarily adhere to them and rely mainly on the Smriti texts. In Buddhism , ''agama'' is used to refer to a class of Sutra s, the most notable example of which is the Pali Canon . In this sense, agama is a synonym for one of the meanings of '' Nikaya ''. In Jainism , an agama is an ancient Jain Textbook s. There were many Agamas in ancient times, but as time passed many of them were lost and destroyed. At present, 45 Agamas are available. Agamas are written in the Prakrit language. These are read and studied by Jain monks ( Sadhu s) only. SEE ALSO REFERENCES |
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