A "sutra" is a concise, aphoristic statement or a set of rules that serves as a guide in various philosophical and religious traditions, particularly in Buddhism and Hinduism. These texts often encapsulate complex ideas in a simple format, making them easier to memorize and transmit. Sutras can cover a wide range of topics, including ethics, meditation, and spiritual practices. In Buddhism, one of the most well-known collections of sutras is the Pali Canon, which contains teachings attributed to Buddha. Similarly, in Hinduism, the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali outline the principles of yoga and meditation. Sutras play a crucial role in preserving and conveying the teachings of these traditions.