Daksha Smriti is an ancient text containing the code of conduct to be followed by the Hindu society. Written by a revered sage named Daksha Praapati, this text emphasizes on the caste system to be followed in the society. There is also a detailed description of the various stages in human life.
Daksha Smriti is based on the Vedas. The teachings are divided into seven chapters, with each one covering a particular aspect of the duties to be performed by a Hindu person. The first chapter explores the caste system. The second concentrates on the various rituals to be performed. The third one describes the importance of a householder and the benefits earned by the act of donation. The next chapter discusses the different qualities of a woman. The fifth chapter contains the merits of purity and cleanness, along with the demerits of uncleanness. While the sixth chapter contains a discourse on life and death, the final chapter deals with the complex topic of Samadhi and the philosophy related to yoga.
One of the highlights of the Daksha Smiriti, which sets it apart from other similar texts, is the emphasize on donation towards the welfare of orphans and destitute. This form of donation is considered the greatest by the author, which enables one to earn enormous blessings and virtues. Daksha Praapati holds the woman in high regard. According to him, a woman is the source of strength to a man. Without her a house is always incomplete.