Manusmṛti, 10 Vols.: With the Manubhāṣya of Medhātithi

The Manusmṛti (Mānava Dharmaśāstra), commonly known as the Laws of Manu, is one of the foundational texts of the Dharmaśāstra tradition and a key source for understanding ancient Indian law, ethics, and social philosophy. Among the numerous commentaries on this text, the Manubhāṣya of Medhātithi (9th–10th century CE) is the oldest and most authoritative. It provides a vast treasury of interpretations, discussions, and jurisprudential insights, making it indispensable for scholars of Dharma and law.

This monumental 10-volume set by Dr. Ganganath Jha, originally published by the University of Calcutta between 1920–1939, remains the standard reference edition. The work is divided into three parts:

1. Sanskrit Text (Mūla) – 2 volumes

   • Vol. 1: Adhyāyas I–VI

   • Vol. 2: Adhyāyas VII–XII, with a comprehensive index

2. English Translation – 5 volumes

   • Vol. 3: Adhyāyas I–II

   • Vol. 4: Adhyāyas III–IV

   • Vol. 5: Adhyāyas V–VII

   • Vol. 6: Adhyāya VIII

   • Vol. 7: Adhyāyas IX–XII

   • Each volume includes detailed indexes

3. Notes & Commentary – 3 volumes

   • Vols. 8–10: Textual, explanatory, and comparative notes

   • Provide deep context and scholarly apparatus, making the Smṛti accessible even to non-specialist readers

In total, the set runs to 6,411 pages of meticulously edited Sanskrit text, English translation, commentary, and notes.