The Vedas and Upanishads are sacred scriptures of ancient India. The philosophy that is contained in these scriptures is called Vedanta. The word "Vedanta" is composed of two root words: “Veda” (knowledge) and “anta” (end of), which implies the philosophical conclusion that exists at the end of Vedas and Upanishads. This Vedanta philosophy emphasizes the realization of the Self is beyond the limits of intellectual knowledge.
Vedanta is universal in nature and transcends caste, creed, race, color, and gender. It is applicable to all human beings. Vedanta proclaims that God is infinite existence, consciousness, and bliss. It states that God resides in the heart of every living being as the Divine Self, which is pure and free from suffering. Students of Vedanta are to realize this Divine Self and manifest this Divinity in their own lives.