Essay name: Devala-smriti (critical study)
Author:
Mukund Lalji Wadekar
Affiliation: Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda / Department of Sanskrit Pali and Prakrit
This essay represents an English study of the Devala-smriti鈥攁n ancient text attributed to sage Devala classified as belonging to the Dharma-Shastra branch of Indian literature which encompasses jurisprudence and religious law. This study deals with the reconstructed text of the Devala-smriti based on surviving references, emphasizing Devala鈥檚 unique viewpoints on social, religious, and philosophical aspects, particularly the Sankhya and Yoga philosophies.
Chapter 9 - The distinctive features of the Devalasmriti
148 (of 165)
External source: Shodhganga (Repository of Indian theses)
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Moreover, the brahmanas could even prescribe pr膩yascitta,
with the consent of the king. In respect of minor lapses,
the brahmins alone could prescribe it, without consultation with
the king. Only in case of great sins, the king & the learned
brahmanas, could declare the penal penance, after due consideration
of circumstances (1891).
III. DESCRIPTION OF KRCCHRAS:
There is enumeration of 15 kinds of penances (1908-1910)
Eventhough the candrayana is not mentioned in it, it is also
dealt with in detail. The following pecularities are generally
found in the description of these krechras.
(1) The procedure of most of them is described in detail.
(2) The importance of several k峁沞chras is emphasized by
enumerating numerous sins, that they can dispel.
(3) Even the episodes, connected with some krochas are
also narrated to extol them.
(4) One or more substitutes or pratyamnayas are also suggested.
(5) But the verses, seem to be of a very late origin &
display a great influence of pauranic style of narration. There
is explicit reference to the Visnus ahasranama & the Gajendramoksa
(1929).
Most of these verses are from the prayascitta
section of
6 1
Hemadri. Mm.P.V.Kane remarks, "the fourth volume, which deals
with prayascitta does not appear to be the work of Hemadri....
"
It seems that Hemadri might have entrusted the work of compilation
