What were the Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras?

Sanskrit texts detailing codes of social behaviour.

As new towns emerged, social life became more intricate. People from various regions came together to engage in trade, exchange goods, and share ideas within the urban setting. This interaction possibly triggered questioning of traditional beliefs and customs. In response to these changes, the Brahmanas, who were the priestly class, formulated detailed codes of social conduct. These guidelines were intended primarily for Brahmanas but were also expected to be followed by society at large. Starting around c. 500 BCE, these norms were compiled into Sanskrit texts known as the Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras. Among these works, the Manusmriti, compiled between c. 200 BCE and 200 CE, holds particular significance.

Despite the claims of universal validity made by the Brahmana authors of these texts, real social relations were likely much more intricate. The vast regional diversity across the Indian subcontinent and the challenges of communication meant that the influence of the Brahmanas was not all-encompassing.

Interestingly, the Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras recognized as many as eight forms of marriage. While the first four were regarded as "good," the remaining four were condemned. It is plausible that these other forms of marriage were practiced by those who did not adhere to Brahmanical norms.