Introduction to Upanishads : The Essence of Vedic Philosophy

Upanishads follow the four vedas (Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda and Atharvaveda), and Brahmanas and Aranyakas. It is in Upanishads that the focus decisively shifts from rituals to knowledge. The vast expanse of ten major Upanishads and many minor ones cover a great array of philosophical concepts and spiritual inquiry. Upanishads hence signify a pivotal juncture in the evolution of the vedic philosophy. They also are a vital sliver of the literary history of ancient India.