Author: Ashutosh Dayal Mathur
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Year: 2007
Language: English
Pages: 251
ISBN/UPC (if available): 019568558-X
Description
Significant developments occurred in Hindu law during the medieval period in India, a time of intense intellectual activity. Scholars studied classical sources closely, debated with each other, reacted to real life conflicts and, in the process, created new codes of law to meet new challenges. This book examines the changes that took place in various aspects of Hindu law as it evolved between the eighth and fourteenth centuries, and were reflected in Sanskrit texts written during that time.
Early in the period dharma was sought to be demarcated from raj dharma, of which vyavahara was a part. The author, a scholar of Sanskrit, law and philosophy, contends that this development meant in effect the secularization of the law, and gradual, but sustained dilution of the authority of the ‘sacred tradition’. He argues that during this time scholars challenged many established dharma sastra rules fearlessly, while remaining rooted within the tradition.
Among the results were laws that provided greater security of person and property for women, increased rationalization of trade and commerce, greater regard for the rights of employees, checks on private dispensation of justice, development of a more rational law of evidence, and formalization of the rules of procedure.
The author’s views have been formulated on the basis of his detailed study of seven leading Sanskrit texts written during that period, including digests and commentaries on the smirtis and dharma sutras. He has also taken into account important secondary material such as works of the time on history, law, and political theory.
A fascinating survey and analysis, this volume will interest scholars and students of legal history, medieval history and society in India, family law, and Sanskrit Studies.
Contents
PREFACE
TRANSLITERATION
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
INTRODUCTION
1. Law and the State-From Divine Justice to Worldly Law
2. Marriage and Family-Acknowledging Women’s Rights
3. Property, Family, and Women-Wives and Daughters as Lawful Beneficiaries
4. Law and the Economy-Grappling with the Ambiguities of the Free Market
5. Law and Community-From the Communitarian Particular to the Citizen Individual
6. Criminal Law-The Changing Limits of Lawful Conduct
7. Evidence and Procedure-Calibrating the Mechanisms
CONCLUSION
GLOSSARY
BIBLIOGRAPHY
INDEX