Yagnavalkya Smruti

The provided Jain text, "Yagnavalkya Smruti" by Vasudev Sharma, published by Pandurang Javji, is a comprehensive work on Dharmashastra, specifically the Smriti of Yajnavalkya, with the influential commentary of Vijnanesvara known as Mitakshara. This particular edition dates back to 1926 and is the third edition of this scholarly work.

The text is organized into a detailed table of contents, covering the following major sections:

1. Upa-Uddhaata Prakaran (Introduction): This section sets the stage by discussing the origin of the universe, the nature of Dharma and Adharma, the importance of the Vedas, and the role of various Rishis and texts in establishing Dharmashastra. It also touches upon the concept of Dharma as defined by Jaimini and the specific interpretations of the term "Dharma" by the Mitakshara commentator. The approximate period of Yajnavalkya is discussed, linking him to the era of Janaka and Vaisampayana, and also to the time of Vikramaditya. The editor, Vasudev Sharma, explains the importance of this critical edition, highlighting the efforts made to rectify errors from previous publications by consulting various manuscripts.

2. Brahma.chari Prakaran (Chapter on the Student): This section deals with the duties and conduct of a Brahmachari (student in the first stage of life). It covers topics such as the auspicious time for Upanayana (initiation ceremony), the qualities of a Guru and teacher, the rituals to be performed, the importance of purity (Shaucha), the rules for eating, the prohibitions for a Brahmachari (like avoiding honey, meat, etc.), the concept of respectful conduct towards elders and teachers, and the duration of Brahmacharya for Vedic studies. It also details the specific duties of a Naishthika Brahmachari, who observes lifelong celibacy.

3. Vivaha Prakaran (Chapter on Marriage): This chapter elaborates on the institution of marriage, including the qualifications for a bride and groom, the different types of marriages (Brahma, Daiva, Arsha, Prajapatya, Asura, Gandharva, Rakshasa, Paishacha), the rules regarding inter-caste marriages, the ceremonies involved, the status of women, and the conduct expected of a wife. It discusses the concept of widow remarriage and the rules governing it, as well as the grounds for divorce and the penances for adultery.

4. Varna-Jati Viveka Prakaran (Chapter on Caste and Varna Distinction): This section delves into the distinctions between the four Varnas (Brahmana, Kshatriya, Vaishya, Shudra) and the rules governing their social order, occupations, and inter-varna relationships. It explains the concept of Anuloma (mixed Varnas from higher caste father and lower caste mother) and Pratiloma (mixed Varnas from lower caste father and higher caste mother) and the resulting sub-castes and their societal implications. It also discusses the possibility of Varna transformation based on conduct and karma over generations.

5. Grihastha Dharma Prakaran (Chapter on the Duties of a Householder): This extensive chapter outlines the manifold duties of a householder, the second stage of life. It covers daily rituals like Sandhya (evening prayer), Agnihotra (fire sacrifice), the Pancha Mahayajnas (five great sacrifices), rules for hospitality towards guests, the conduct expected within the household, the importance of charity, and the various aspects of daily life. It also discusses the maintenance of the household, the management of finances, and the overall responsibility of a householder towards family and society.

6. Snataka Dharma Prakaran (Chapter on the Duties of a Snataka): This section focuses on the conduct of a Snataka, a student who has completed his studies and returned home. It details the specific rules and regulations they must follow, including their daily routine, diet, dress code, social interactions, and the manner in which they should conduct themselves in society. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining purity, self-control, and adherence to prescribed duties.

7. Bhakshya-Abhakshya Prakaran (Chapter on Edibles and Non-Edibles): This chapter provides a detailed list of foods that are permissible and forbidden for consumption, particularly for Brahmins and other Varnas. It outlines the rules regarding purification of food, the consumption of meat, the types of animals that are permissible to eat, and the penances to be undertaken for consuming forbidden items.

8. Dravya Shuddhi Prakaran (Chapter on Purification of Articles): This section addresses the rules for purifying various types of articles, including utensils, metals, clothes, and other materials, from ritual impurity. It explains the methods of purification using water, earth, fire, and other substances based on the nature of the impurity and the material.

9. Dana Prakaran (Chapter on Charity): This chapter focuses on the principles and practices of charity. It discusses the importance of giving, the proper recipients of charity (the deserving and qualified), the types of gifts, the auspicious times for giving, and the fruits derived from charitable acts. It emphasizes the significance of giving with faith and generosity.

10. Shraddha Prakaran (Chapter on Shraddha Rites): This section is dedicated to the rituals performed for the ancestors (Shraddha). It explains the significance of these rites, the appropriate times for performing them (including specific Tithis and celestial conjunctions), the qualifications of the Brahmins to be invited, the types of offerings, the ceremonies involved, and the benefits of performing Shraddha correctly. It covers Parvana Shraddha, Vriddhi Shraddha, Ekoddishta Shraddha, and the Sarpindikarana rite.

11. Ganapati Kalpa Prakaran (Chapter on the Rituals of Ganapati): This chapter details the worship of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. It describes the rituals for propitiating Ganesha, the offerings to be made, the mantras to be chanted, and the significance of worshipping him before commencing any important task. It also touches upon the worship of other celestial bodies (Grahas) for peace and prosperity.

12. Graha Shanti Prakaran (Chapter on Pacifying Celestial Bodies): This section focuses on the astrological significance of celestial bodies (Grahas) and the rituals to be performed to pacify their ill effects and invoke their positive influences. It describes the identification of celestial bodies, their respective mantras, the offerings to be made, and the timing of these pacification ceremonies.

13. Raja Dharma Prakaran (Chapter on the Duties of a King): This chapter outlines the responsibilities and duties of a king or ruler. It discusses the essential qualities of a good king, the importance of righteous governance, the administration of justice, the maintenance of law and order, the management of the kingdom's resources, the conduct of warfare, and the king's relationship with his subjects and advisors. It also covers topics like taxation, diplomacy, and the king's role in upholding Dharma.

14. Sahas Prakaran (Chapter on Daring/Adventures/Offenses): This section deals with acts of courage and daring, but also includes offenses that involve audacity or forceful actions. It discusses various categories of offenses, the severity of punishment based on the act, the concept of self-defense, and the appropriate retribution for transgressions. It appears to cover aspects of criminal law and justice within the societal framework.

15. Samvid-Vyatikkrama Prakaran (Chapter on Breach of Agreement): This chapter focuses on the consequences of breaking agreements, contracts, or customary practices. It explains the rules governing such breaches, the penalties involved, and the mechanisms for resolving disputes related to promises and commitments made within the community or by governing authorities.

16. Vetana Dana Prakaran (Chapter on Payment of Wages): This section addresses the rules and regulations concerning the payment of wages to laborers and employees. It discusses fair compensation, timely payment, and the penalties for non-compliance or exploitation of workers.

17. Dyuta Samahvaya Prakaran (Chapter on Gambling and Betting): This chapter deals with the practice of gambling and betting. It likely outlines the rules, social implications, and the legal stance on such activities, possibly including the associated punishments or restrictions.

18. Vak Parushya Prakaran (Chapter on Abusive Language): This section focuses on offenses related to speech, specifically abusive language, insults, and defamation. It details the punishments for various forms of verbal misconduct, taking into account the social status of the individuals involved and the severity of the insult.

19. Danda Parushya Prakaran (Chapter on Physical Assault): This chapter addresses physical violence and assault. It categorizes different types of bodily harm and outlines the corresponding penalties, considering factors like the intent, the nature of the injury, and the social standing of the perpetrator and victim.

20. Sahasa Prakaran (Chapter on Daring/Audacity/Crimes): This section seems to cover more serious offenses that involve force, boldness, or criminal intent. It likely discusses crimes like theft, robbery, and other acts that disrupt social order and require significant punishment.

21. Vikraya Sampradana Prakaran (Chapter on Sale and Transfer of Goods): This chapter deals with the legal aspects of commercial transactions, including sales, purchases, and the rules governing the exchange of goods and services. It likely covers issues like fraud, breach of contract in trade, and the responsibilities of buyers and sellers.

22. Sambhuya Samutthana Prakaran (Chapter on Joint Ventures/Associations): This section discusses matters related to collective activities and agreements among groups of people, such as trade guilds or associations. It likely covers rules for profit-sharing, dispute resolution within groups, and the legal standing of such organizations.

23. Steya Prakaran (Chapter on Theft): This chapter specifically addresses the crime of theft. It defines theft, discusses different categories of theft, the methods of detection, and the punishments associated with it, likely including different penalties based on the value of the stolen goods and the social status of the offender.

24. Stri Sangrahana Prakaran (Chapter on Offences Against Women/Improper Association): This section appears to cover offenses related to women, potentially including seduction, abduction, adultery, and other violations of sexual morality. It likely outlines the legal ramifications and punishments for such actions.

25. Prakirnaka Prakaran (Miscellaneous Chapter): This is a miscellaneous chapter that likely covers various other legal and social matters not fitting into the previous categories. It may include topics related to specific social customs, minor offenses, or supplementary rules.

The text also includes a "Vyavahara Adhyaya Suchi Patra" (Table of Contents for the Chapter on Transactions/Legal Proceedings), which provides a highly detailed breakdown of the topics covered within the "Vyavahara Adhyaya" (Chapter on Transactions/Legal Proceedings). This includes numerous sub-topics within each main Prakaran, indicating the exhaustive nature of the text.

In essence, the "Yagnavalkya Smruti" with the "Mitakshara" commentary, as presented in this edition, is a foundational text in Hindu law and social conduct, offering detailed guidance on a vast array of subjects related to individual and societal responsibilities, legal procedures, and spiritual practices within the framework of Dharmashastra. While the title appears in a Jain catalog, the content itself aligns with traditional Hindu Dharmashastra, particularly the well-known Yajnavalkya Smriti and its commentary. The reference to "Jain" in the catalog might relate to the institution holding the text or its particular distribution, rather than the doctrinal content of the Smriti itself, which is firmly within the Hindu Dharmashastra tradition.