Tag Manusmriti

Manu Smriti ,Who A Brahmin Is How To Learn Veda

I have devoted some posts on this subject.

I have been asked by email the Manu Smriti's stand on Brahmins and the discipline needed to learn the Vedas.

Laws of Manu
Manu Smriti.
I am reproducing aversion of Manu Smriti on this and you may read the Full Text in the Link.

You would find details on this and also on Naming of Children and a host of information.

Manu Smriti, Chapter II.

1. Learn that sacred law which is followed by men learned (in the Veda) and assented to in their hearts by the virtuous, who are ever exempt from hatred and inordinate affection.

2. To act solely from a desire for rewards is not laudable, yet an exemption from that desire is not (to be found) in this (world): for on (that) desire is grounded the study of the Veda and the performance of the actions, prescribed by the Veda.

3. The desire (for rewards), indeed, has its root in the conception that an act can yield them, and in consequence of (that) conception sacrifices are performed; vows and the laws prescribing restraints are all stated to be kept through the idea that they will bear fruit.

4. Not a single act here (below) appears ever to be done by a man free from desire; for whatever (man) does, it is (the result of) the impulse of desire.

Manusmriti On Brahmin’s Duty Vedas

I am posting excerpts(some) relating to the Duties of a Brahmin and also on the Vedas.Here one finds that the Duties prescribed for the Brahmins are tough and unrelenting.

Manu offers greater respect and status to Brahmins – the educated ones. Dwijas or twice born or those who completed their education are provided heightened standing in society so far they conduct noble deeds. But when it comes to crimes, they also have to face more severe punishments. With greater potentials, come greater responsibilities and stricter punishments when one fails to fulfill those responsibilities.

One may also note that in the vent of a conflict between Vedas and Smriti(Tradition) what is to be practiced.

For more follow the Link;

The whole Veda is the (first) source of the sacred law, next the tradition and the virtuous conduct of those who know the (Veda further), also the customs of holy men, and (finally) self-satisfaction...

Whatever law has been ordained for any (person) by Manu, that has been fully declared in the Veda: for that (sage was) omniscient.

8. But a learned man after fully scrutinising all this with the eye of knowledge, should, in accordance with the authority of the revealed texts, be intent on (the performance of) his duties.