Dharmashastra is a term in Hinduism that refers to the body of knowledge or scriptures that provide guidelines for righteous living and ethical conduct. The word “Dharmashastra” is derived from two Sanskrit words: “dharma,” which means righteousness or duty, and “shastra,” which means scripture or treatise. These texts are concerned with the moral and ethical duties individuals must follow to lead a righteous and virtuous life.

History of Dharmashastra

Dharmashastra have their origins in the Dharmasutra – which are compilations of social principles created by different scholars and rishis such as Gautam Rishi and Vasishtha Rishi. The principles enlisted in the Dharmasutra are the result of research and discussions on the four Veda through Vedang studies. The ‘Brahman’ section of each Veda that explains the ‘Samhita’ section of the same – is the basis for the creation of Dharmasutra.

Dharmashastra are derived from Dharmasutra, and they are written in poetic form that is easily accessible to the common people. About 20 Dharmasutra texts have been identified to date, and most of them are ancient manuscripts. Only four Dharmasutra are predominantly used for research purposes, they are:-

1. Apastambh
2. Gautam
3. Baudhayan
4. Vasishth

They all are believed to be created between 100 to 600 BCE. And though they carry the name of the original author/ scholar, they don’t provide much information about the actual writers and their timeline.

Several ancient Hindu texts fall under the category of Dharmashastra, with some of the most well-known being:

1. Manusmriti (Laws of Manu): Manusmriti, also known as the Laws of Manu, is one of the earliest and most important Dharmashastra texts. It is attributed to the legendary figure Manu and provides guidelines on various aspects of social, ethical, and religious conduct.
2. Arthashastra: While primarily a treatise on statecraft and politics, the Arthashastra, attributed to the ancient scholar Chanakya, also contains discussions on ethics and dharm relevant to rulers and administrators.
3. Yajnavalkya Smriti: Attributed to the sage Yajnavalkya, this text is another significant Dharmashastra work. It covers a wide range of topics, including ethics, law, and social duties.
4. Narada Smriti: Attributed to the sage Narada, this text also provides guidelines on dharma and ethical conduct.
5. Parashara Smriti: Attributed to the sage Parashara, this text deals with various aspects of dharma, including duties related to family life, society, and governance.

Various scholars and sages have created their own Bhashya or Commentaries on these Dharmashastra. These commentaries have been discovered in different parts of India, belonging to different timelines. There is also another form of secondary literature derived from the Dharmashastra, which is Nibandh – a kind of summary or digest of the particular Smriti texts.

Contents of Dharmashastra

There are three main aspects of the principles covered in different Dharmashastra texts. They are Achaar (social conduct), Vyavhaar (ethical processes), and Prayaschit (atonement). The Dharmashastra covers topics such as four stages of a lifetime, Vedic initiation of the youth, social responsibilities with regards to country/ cast/ clan, rituals and spirituality, civil & criminal law, universal precepts, social customs, and a Hindu lifestyle.

These principles in Dharmashastra have been evolving through the practice of Mimansa or investigation over the centuries.

These Dharmashastra texts collectively offer a comprehensive guide on individual and social conduct, covering topics such as moral principles, family duties, social obligations, and legal matters. It’s important to note that interpretations and emphasis on these texts may vary, and different schools of thought within Hinduism may prioritize different aspects of dharm. Additionally, modern Hindu ethical discussions often consider a broader perspective that includes contemporary values and challenges.