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In this hand-book, Shri V.A.K. Ayer has given in a succinct and useful form the highly desirable information about Hindu scriptural authorities and the Samskaras. Manu has mentioned four sources of dharma--Shruti, smriti, custom of good people and that which appeals to one's good consciences. Yajnavalkya has added Samyak - sankalpajah- karmah and also stated the fourteen Vidyasthansa. Mau also states that the best authority is the entire Veds i.e. Veda with all its six Angas. Smriti also includes in a broad sense, Itihasas, Puranas, Upapuranas, Tantras and Angamas. Shri Ayer has given descriptions of all these authorities.
He has also treated the subject of Samskaras in Section II. Maximum number of Samskaras which are purificatory and religious ceremonies of the Hindus are counted as 48. Sometimes the number is reduced to 48. Sometimes the number is reduced to 40, 25 to 16 or even 8. In modern time, Upanayana, Vivaha, Antyeshti are the minimum that are performed. all of them are described in a brief but vivid manner.
This hand-book is bound to be widely appreciated and Shri Ayer deserves compliments for making this useful subject available to public at large in an interesting manner.
Jayantkrishna H.Dave
Hon. Director.
Author - V.A.K.Ayer
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