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The Manusmriti is an ancient legal text in Hinduism, also known as the Manusmriti or Manava Dharmashastra. Dating back to around 1st to 3rd century CE, it outlines the concept of dharma, which encompasses duties, rights, laws, conduct, and virtues. The text prescribes how people should behave based on their social class (varna) and stage of life (ashrama).
The Manusmriti’s influence has been widespread, historically extending beyond India and impacting Hindu kingdoms in Southeast Asia. It was one of the first Sanskrit texts translated into English, and British colonizers used it to shape their understanding of Hindu law. However, it’s important to note that the text’s social hierarchies and views on gender are controversial, and its relevance in modern Hinduism is debated.