MANU SMRATI
MANU SMRATI The Laws of Manu 1. The great sages approached Manu, who was seated with a collected mind, and, having duly worshipped him, spoke as follows: 'Deign, divine one, to declare to us precisely and in due order the sacred laws of each of the (four chief) castes (varna) and of the intermediate ones. 'For thou, O Lord, alone knowest the purport, (i.e.) the rites, and the knowledge of the soul, (taught) in this whole ordinance of the Self-existent (Svayambhu), which is unknowable and unfathomable.' He, whose power is measureless, being thus asked by the high-minded great sages, duly honoured them, and answered, 'Lis- ten!' This (universe) existed in the shape of Darkness, unperceived, destitute of disti...