A History of Ancient Sanskrit Literature, so far as it illustrates the Primitive Religion of the Brahmans c8.62

c8.62

precepts given there are not based upon passages of the Śruti, does not hold good, because passages are met with which are the source of all the laws given in the Smṛiti. Thus we read, ‘These five great sacrifices are every day commenced and every day performed: the Devayajna (to the gods), the Pitṛiyajna (to the fathers, the manes), the Bhûtayajna (to all beings), the Manushyayajna (to men), the Brahmayajna (to Brahman, the divine Self).’¹ And although there is no distinct precept in the Veda for ablutions, &c., yet all this is implied. Thus the Bhaṭṭâchâryâs say, ‘It is right to respect the Smṛitis, because they are delivered by Vedic authors, because their origin is well established, and because they derive their authority from the Veda, if but rightly understood.’ The Munis see the Śruti, and they deliver the Smṛiti; therefore the authority of both is proved on earth by full evidence. A man who despises these two, and adopts fallacious doctrines, is to be avoided by good men as a heretic and Veda-blasphemer.