Shruti
(श्रुति)Literal Meaning
That which is heard
Etymology & Sanskrit Root
From Sanskrit 'shru' (to hear); the highest category of Hindu scripture, comprising the Vedas and Upanishads, believed to be eternal truth directly perceived by ancient rishis in deep meditation rather than composed by them.
Spiritual Insight & Context
Rishis who received shruti are called 'mantra drashta' (seers of the mantra, not authors) — the language emphasizes discovery of eternal truth rather than human invention.