Originating from the time span between 300 and 100 BCE, the Vasishta Dharmasutras stand as a venerable piece of ancient wisdom. While traditionally linked to the Kalpasutra group of the Rigveda, there exists no definitive evidence to irrefutably establish this connection.
A notable edition, regarded as a standard publication,
encompasses a comprehensive 30 chapters. Remarkably, it stands as a solitary
voice in the realm of commentary, with only the Vidvanmodini by Yajnasvamin
having been preserved.
The content of the Vasishta Dharmasutras can be succinctly
summarized. It delves into a myriad of topics, ranging from the definition of
dharma to the delineation of the limits of Aryavarta. The text explores sins
and sinners, elucidates the intricacies of six forms of marriage, and expounds
upon the four varnas. It also addresses matters such as atatayins or criminals,
delineates duties common to all varnas, and explores the four ashramas along
with their associated duties. Additionally, it sheds light on Vedic studies,
outlines permissible and prohibited dietary practices, establishes rules for
adoption, and discusses the role of the king and the administration of justice.
The text also provides insights into the partition of property, pratiloma
castes, certain prayaschittas or expiations, virtues of pranayama, and extols
the purifying nature of the Gayatri Mantra. Throughout its discourse, the
Vasishta Dharmasutras refers to numerous verses from the Rig Veda.
This venerable work serves as a foundational reference for
other dharmashastra works, such as the Mitakshara on Yajnavalkya Smriti by
Vijnaneshvara, dating back to the 12th century AD, which draws inspiration from
the Vasishta Dharmasutras. Noteworthy is the striking resemblance it shares
with the dharmasutras of Baudhayana and Gautama, further attesting to its
influence and enduring relevance in the realm of ancient Indian jurisprudential
thought.