Grihya

Grihya refers to a class of Sanskrit texts belonging to the Vedic tradition. These texts primarily deal with domestic rituals and ceremonies performed by householders, as opposed to the public sacrifices described in the Shrauta Sutras. The term "Grihya" itself is derived from the Sanskrit word "griha," meaning house or home.

The Grihya Sutras outline the details of various life-cycle rites (samskaras) such as birth, naming, tonsure, and marriage. They also describe daily rituals like the offerings of fire (paka-yajna), ancestral worship (pitri-yajna), and hospitality. These rituals were considered essential for maintaining spiritual purity, social order, and the well-being of the family.

Each Veda has its own set of Grihya Sutras, associated with specific schools or shakhas. For instance, the Rigveda has the Ashvalayana Grihya Sutra, the Yajurveda has the Kathaka Grihya Sutra and the Baudhayana Grihya Sutra, the Samaveda has the Jaiminiya Grihya Sutra, and the Atharvaveda has the Kaushika Grihya Sutra. These texts provide invaluable insights into the social, religious, and daily life of ancient Indian society. They are a crucial source for understanding the evolution of Hindu domestic practices and beliefs.