Yama Smriti is one of the earliest Hindu smritis (code of laws). It deals
with expiation, purification and propitiatory rituals for the ancestors.
Although scholars consider it as a minor smriti, Yama is enumerated in the
famous Yajnavalkya Smriti as a lawgiver. So the text is considered important by many.
There are several versions of Yama Smriti available. Some of
these texts include in parts topics related to Dharmasastra like legal
procedures and polity.
A substantial part of the Yama Smriti is devoted to prescription
of expiatory atonement to various types of guilts, misdeeds and impieties,
committed consciously or otherwise.
A great portion of the text is also devoted to dos and don’ts
relating to Shradha – ritualistic propitiation of the dead ancestors.
The smriti has been quoted even in Vasishta Dharmasutras.
Yama Smriti prescribes punishment for cutting trees, shrubs,
plants and creepers, especially if they have flowered or have fruits.