Grhya Sutras

(“aphorisms on domestic [rites]”) The
name given to texts that outline correct
procedures for domestic religious ceremonies, in particular the daily rites
connected with the domestic sacred
fire, and the life-cycle rites known as
the samskaras. The latter rites span
the time before birth to the memorial
offerings after death and are still
observed by many pious Hindus,
although the rites have been modified
over time. In theory, a Grhya Sutra
should be one part of a Kalpa Sutra,
which should also contain prescriptions for Vedic rituals (Shrauta Sutras)
and for appropriate human behavior
(Dharma Sutras). In reality this doesn’t
always seem to be the case, since aside
from the three complete surviving
Kalpa Sutras, there are at least six
other Grhya Sutras, indicating that
these texts were composed independently. See also Veda.