Aranyakas
The
Aranyakas (
Forest Books,
Forest Treatises) are part of the
Hindu Shruti; these
religious scriptures are sometimes
argued to be part of either the
Brahmanas or
Upanishads. The
Aranyakas discuss
philosophy,
sacrifice (particularly the sacrificial fire), and the
New Year holiday.
Historically, these topics were discussed
secretly -- in the
forest.