Here is a Quote from Manusmriti for the first, fourth, fifth and sixth marriages:

First: Kanyadan or Donation of the Girl child, Adorned with precious clothes and ornaments, should be donated to a groom who has been invited by the father himself.

Fourth: The father addresses the Bride-Groom couple by saying: “You together fulfill your obligations.” After that, he respects the groom and donates the girl to him.

Fifth: The bride is obtained by the bridegroom when according to his ability and desire, he provides sufficient wealth to his relatives and to the bride himself.

Sixth: Union between a man and woman of their own free will …… which is originated from love affairs ……

Q 1. What is Manusmriti and when was it compiled?

Manusmriti is the most important law book in Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras. It was compiled between 200 BC to 200 AD.

Q 2. In what context is this quote? Who made these rules?

This quote is in the context of different marriage practices. These rules were made by Brahmins.

Q 3. What is the difference between the first and fifth marriage methods?

According to the first marriage method, the father decorates his daughter with precious clothes and ornaments and donates it to the groom invited by him. On the contrary, in the fifth method of marriage, the groom gets the bride only when he gives enough money to his relatives and the bride himself according to his ability and desire.

Q 4. How many types of marriages are approved by the Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras? How are they classified?

Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras sanction eight types of marriages. Of these, the first four methods are considered ‘best’ while the rest are condemned. The condemned practices were probably prevalent among those who did not follow the rules brought by the Brahmins.

Tagged in: