So Manu Smriti is not a fixed standard text that was followed nor does it carry the force of the Vedas.
To quote a contemporary example, Manu Smriti is like the Directive Principles of State Policy, while the Vedas are akin to the Fundamental Rights enshrined in the Constitution of India.
While former need not be followed but only commendatory in nature , the latter has the force of Law and has to be followed.
In case of Conflict between the two, the Fundamental Rights will prevail.
So Vedas are like the Fundamental Rights and Manu Smriti, Directive principles of State Policy.
The major difference is that unlike the Fundamental Rights, Vedas can not be changed/amended.
As time changes, so are the customs and values.
Hence Manu Smriti also changes , depending on the Yuga.
What we now have as Manu Smriti , I am not sure is the one meant for Kali Yuga,
And The Manu Smriti reflects the Social Life.
Like the Films, the question of whether Society influences Life or the other way around, one is never sure.
With this back ground let us look at the quoted texts which are derogatory to women.![]()
