Manu, << MAN oo >>, in Hindu mythology, was the sole survivor of a great flood, and thus the first man. He is also known as a lawgiver who systematized the religious and social laws of Hinduism. These ancient laws are called the Manu Smriti (Code of Manu). They still influence the religious and social life of India, where Hinduism is the chief religion. The Manu Smriti has three main parts: (1) varna, (2) ashrama, and (3) dharma.
Varna sets forth the basis of caste, the strict Hindu class system. Hinduism has four major varnas (groups of castes). See Hinduism (Caste).
Ashrama describes the four ideal stages of a Hindu man’s life. First, he studies Hindu scriptures called the Vedas, and the duties of his caste. Second, he marries. Third, after he fulfills his family obligations, he retires with his wife to a forest to meditate. Finally, in old age, the husband and wife separate and wander as beggars called sannyasis, preparing for death.
Dharma describes the four goals of life. They are (1) dharma—fulfilling one’s religious obligation in society, (2) kama—enjoying sex and other physical pleasures, (3) artha—achieving worldly success through one’s occupation, and (4) moksha—gaining spiritual release from worldly existence.
