The Mitakshara of Vijnaneshvara, also known as Rijumitakshara or Pramitakshara, is a renowned commentary on the Yajnavalkyasmriti, a seminal work comprising about a thousand verses and holding significant authority in Hindu jurisprudence. Vijnaneshvara, who lived around 1100 CE, is celebrated for his expertise in the Purva Mimamsa Darshana, which he adeptly applies in interpreting the intentions and principles of Yajnavalkya's Smriti.
Despite its concise and lucid nature, the Mitakshara delves
into intricate details when necessary, reflecting its depth of analysis and
comprehensive understanding of legal principles. It draws from a wide array of
sources, quoting approximately 80 smritis and various writers of
dharmashastras. Notably, it shows a tendency to overlook the puranas, with only
five of them being referenced. Other esteemed authors referenced in the
Mitakshara include Vishwaroopa (circa 800 CE), Medhatithi (825-900 CE), and Dhareshvara
(1000 CE), showcasing the breadth of Vijnaneshvara's scholarship.
Several commentaries have been written on the Mitakshara,
among which the Subodhini by Vishveshvara Bhatta (14th century CE),
Pramitakshara by Nandapandita (1580-1630 CE), and Balambhattii by Balambhatta
or Balakrishna (1730-1820 CE) stand out as noteworthy contributions.
Additionally, there exists another work titled Mitakshara, authored by
Haradatta around 1100 CE, which serves as a commentary on the Gautama
Dharmasutras.
Overall, the Mitakshara of Vijnaneshvara remains a seminal
text in Hindu jurisprudence, revered for its insightful commentary and
systematic interpretation of the Yajnavalkyasmriti.