The Manusmriti is one of the best known legal texts of early India, w...
- According to the Manusmriti, the paternal estate was to be divided equally amongst sons after the parents' death, with a special share for the eldest. Women could not claim a share of these resources.
- The Manusmriti laid down the 'duties' of the chandalas. They had to live outside the village, use discarded utensils and wear clothes of the dead and ornaments of iron.
They could not walk about in cities and villages at night. They had to dispose of the bodies of those who had no relatives and serve as executioners.
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The Manusmriti is one of the best known legal texts of early India, w...
The Manusmriti and Women's Rights
The Manusmriti, also known as the Laws of Manu, is an ancient legal text that provides guidance on various aspects of social and moral conduct in ancient India. It was written in Sanskrit and compiled between the second century BCE and the second century CE. While the Manusmriti is a significant legal text, it is important to note that it reflects the social and cultural norms of the time and may not align with modern perspectives on gender equality.
1. It gives equal rights to women on paternal property and resources.
Incorrect. The Manusmriti does not give equal rights to women on paternal property and resources. In fact, it upholds the patrilineal system in which inheritance and property rights are primarily passed down through male lineage. According to the Manusmriti, sons are given priority in inheritance, and daughters may receive only a limited share of the property. This reflects the patriarchal nature of ancient Indian society, where women generally had limited rights and were considered subordinate to men.
2. It strongly opposes the Varna system.
Incorrect. The Manusmriti does not strongly oppose the Varna system, also known as the caste system. In fact, it provides detailed guidance on the duties and responsibilities of individuals based on their caste. The Manusmriti upholds the hierarchical social order of the Varna system, with Brahmins (priests and scholars) at the top, followed by Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), and Shudras (laborers and servants). It also mentions rules and regulations for individuals of mixed castes and those considered "untouchables."
Conclusion
In conclusion, both statements are incorrect. The Manusmriti does not give equal rights to women on paternal property and resources, as it upholds the patrilineal system of inheritance. It also does not strongly oppose the Varna system, rather it provides guidelines and regulations for individuals based on their caste. It is essential to understand the historical and cultural context in which the Manusmriti was written and not interpret it as a reflection of modern principles of gender equality or social justice.
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