The Shankaracharya of Puri, gave a brief overview of the meaning and essence of Manu and the Manusmriti.
Three meanings of the word ‘Manu’
1. Manu means mantra (as it is referred to in the Upanishads).
2. Manu is the seer (drashta) of mantra.
3. Manu is the one who created the Manusmriti.
Essence of the teachings of Manusmriti
1. Worldly life is meaningful when it leads to detachment. Detachment is meaningful when it leads to renunciation and moksha (ultimate freedom).
2. The destruction of the body does not lead to the destruction of the jivatma (individual soul), and the differences in the physical bodies do not create any differences in the jivatma.
3. Every individual must utilise and dedicate his life for the welfare of all.
4. Everyone’s livelihood must remain secure from birth and every person’s life must be free from struggle.
5. The aspects of education, defence, wealth and service must always remain balanced.