In the Sanatana Dharma tradition, Rishis refer to the ancient sages or seers who were known for their extraordinary wisdom and spiritual insights. They were revered as the custodians of the Vedic knowledge and were responsible for transmitting the knowledge of the Vedas and other spiritual texts to their disciples.
The Rishis were believed to have received divine revelations or insights through intense meditation and tapas (austerities). They were also known for their remarkable abilities to perceive the subtle aspects of the universe and the workings of the cosmic laws. Many of the hymns and verses in the Vedas were composed by these Rishis, who are considered to be the primary authors of the Vedas.
According to tradition, the Rishis were categorized into seven different groups, each associated with a specific Vedic text. These seven groups were known as the Saptarishis or Seven Sages, and they were believed to have played a crucial role in the preservation and dissemination of the Vedic knowledge.
The Rishis were not only revered for their spiritual knowledge, but also for their ethical and moral values. They were regarded as role models for leading a virtuous and righteous life. Many of the teachings and stories associated with the Rishis are still used today to impart important moral and spiritual lessons.
