Dharma Sūtra – Praśna 1, Paṭala 1, Khāṇḍa 1, Sūtra 1
Sūtra
athātas-sāmayācārikān dharmān vyākhyāsyāmaḥ || 1 ||
Telugu
అథాతస్సామయాచారికాన్ ధర్మాన్ వ్యాఖ్యాస్యామః || 1 ||
Translation
Now, therefore, we will teach the Dharmas which form part of the duty of daily life, as they have been decided by the agreement [of those who know the law].
Commentary / Explanation
Now, therefore — after the study of the śrāutā and Gruhya sūtras. Dharma — 'acts productive of merit,' usually translated by 'duty or law,' is more accurately defined as an act which produces the state called apūrva, the cause of heavenly bliss and of final liberation. Sāmaya — 'agreement, decision of men who know the law,' is threefold = vidhi – injunction, niyama – restriction or guidelines, and pratiṣedhā – prohibition.
Source
Āpastamba Dharma Sūtra
Source Page
13