Social Thought of Yājñavalkya (I)
By Ramesh S. Betai, Jayaben R. Betai
Summary
This article is the first part of a study on the social thought of the sage Yājñavalkya, a key figure in the Brihadāraṇyaka Upaniṣad. The author surveys Yājñavalkya’s teachings on householders’ duties, ethical conduct and the aims of life. It notes his emphasis on self‑knowledge as the foundation of dharma, arguing that social roles must be informed by inner realisation. The essay discusses Yājñavalkya’s views on marriage, inheritance and the duties of kings. It contrasts his pragmatic advice on livelihood with his mystical teachings on the Self, showing how he integrated worldly responsibility with spiritual quest. The author also reflects on Yājñavalkya’s contributions to law codes, such as the Yājñavalkya Smṛti, which systematically codified social norms. Overall, the article argues that Yājñavalkya’s social thought remains relevant for understanding the intersection of ethics, law and spirituality in ancient India.
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Conclusion
The study demonstrates that Yājñavalkya’s ethical teachings blend practical social guidance with profound metaphysical insight. By grounding social duties in self‑realisation, his thought offers a holistic vision of dharma.