niyoga

Niyoga is a concept found in ancient Indian traditions, particularly within the context of Hindu philosophy and law. It broadly refers to a duty, appointment, or prescribed religious act. In a social context, it can refer to the appointment of a person to perform a specific task or ritual. In a more specific and controversial interpretation, particularly in interpretations of ancient Hindu law, niyoga describes a custom where a woman, typically a widow with no surviving male issue, could bear a child with a kinsman of her deceased husband. This was not seen as adultery but as a socially sanctioned religious duty (dharma) intended to perpetuate the lineage and family name. The child born through niyoga was considered the legitimate offspring of the deceased husband and his lineage. This practice is primarily discussed in ancient texts like the Manusmriti and the Mahabharata, and its social acceptance and prevalence varied across different regions and time periods in ancient India. Modern interpretations generally view niyoga as an outdated social custom, not reflective of contemporary society or practices.