Significance of Appointed daughter
The term "appointed daughter" refers to a daughter designated for various familial responsibilities and inheritance rights, as outlined in texts like the Arthashastra, Purana, and Dharmashastra. She is recognized as equal to the body-born son in matters of inheritance and may be appointed by her father for procreation, carrying on the lineage, or performing specific duties, including religious rites. This classification ensures that the appointed daughter holds significant status in property rights and family continuity.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Appointed daughter'
The term "Appointed daughter" in Hinduism refers to a daughter designated for specific familial roles and inheritance rights, equating her offspring's significance to that of a biological son, thus influencing property and marriage dynamics.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Daughters designated for inheritance rights, reflecting specific legal stipulations regarding property and estate in the absence of male heirs.[1] (2) A daughter recognized explicitly as having special status regarding inheritance and property rights.[2] (3) A daughter who has been explicitly designated by her father to inherit and perform certain familial duties, particularly regarding property and offerings.[3] (4) A daughter designated for specific responsibilities or roles within the family structure, particularly regarding inheritance.[4] (5) A daughter designated by her father for a specific purpose, often relating to the inheritance of property and the establishment of familial ties.[5]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) Refers to a daughter whose offspring (son) is designated to inherit and perform specific religious duties for the family.[6]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) A daughter appointed in a specific context stated in the Veda, highlighting her transition to a role with offspring responsibilities.[7]
From: Gautama Dharmasutra
(1) A daughter designated by the father to ensure the continuation of his lineage.[8]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The daughters designated by Daksha for marriage in order to produce descendants and continue family lines for religious duties.[9]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) The daughter who is appointed for procreation and whose son is considered equal to the natural son.[10]