The Manusmriti Chapter 9, Verse 225 , serves as a directive for maintaining public order by identifying and expelling individuals perceived as socially disruptive or "shady." The Verse (Translation)
"Gamblers, actors, cruel men, men belonging to heretical sects, those addicted to forbidden occupations, and liquor-vendors—all these the King shall immediately banish from his town." Context & Review
This verse appears in the section of Chapter 9 dealing with Civil and Criminal Law (specifically the suppression of public nuisances).
Public Morality: The list targets professions and behaviors that the text's authors viewed as corrosive to the social fabric. It groups "gamblers" and "liquor-vendors" with "cruel men" and "heretics," reflecting a legal philosophy that prioritizes religious and moral homogeneity.
Preventative Governance: The instruction for the King to "immediately banish" these individuals suggests that the mere presence of these groups was considered a risk to the stability of a city.
Cultural Nuance: Different commentators offer variations on the identities of these groups. For example, some interpret "cruel men" (kruran) as those with "crooked behavior," while others identify "actors" (kusilavan) as individuals sharp enough to entrap others. Modern Perspective
In a contemporary context, this verse is often cited in discussions regarding the rigid and exclusionary nature of the Manusmriti. While it historically aimed to create a "purified" urban environment, its broad categorization of "heretics" and "actors" as criminals clashes with modern values of religious freedom and professional liberty. The Manusmriti: The Laws of Manu - Amazon.in
Manusmriti 9.225 reflects the socio-legal realities of ancient India—not a divine, eternal command. While historically significant for understanding past gender roles, it holds no legal or moral authority today. Modern Hindu practice, law, and ethics affirm women’s full autonomy, equality, and freedom. As the great reformer Dr. B.R. Ambedkar argued, “Manusmriti is a legal code of an ancient society; it is not the gospel of the Hindus.” Contemporary believers are free to honor the text’s philosophical portions while discarding verses that violate fundamental human dignity.
Key takeaway: Verse 9.225 is best studied as a historical artifact, not a living law. Its literal meaning is rejected by modern legal systems, Hindu reform movements, and mainstream ethics.
The King’s Purge: Understanding Manusmriti 9.225 Manusmriti
, an ancient and influential Sanskrit legal text dated between the 2nd century BCE and 2nd century CE, offers a complex blueprint for societal conduct (
). Within Chapter 9, which primarily focuses on the duties of kings and family laws, stands out as
a directive for preserving the moral and social order of a kingdom through the immediate removal of specific "undesirable" elements The Sanskrit Text and Translation
The verse, as translated by scholars like Ganganath Jha and G. Bühler, reads:
कितवान् कुशीलवान् क्रूरान् पाषण्डस्थांश्च मानवान् ।
विकर्मस्थान् शौण्डिकांश्च क्षिप्रं निर्वासयेत् पुरात् ॥ २२५ ॥ manusmriti chapter 9 verse 225
"Gamblers, dancers, cruel men, men belonging to heretical sects, men addicted to evil deeds, dealers in wine—these the King shall instantly banish from his town." Key Groups Subject to Banishment
The verse lists six specific categories of individuals whom the king is advised to exile "instantly" from the city ( Gamblers (
Those who engage in games of chance, viewed as a source of social instability and personal ruin. Dancers/Actors ( Kuśīlavān
Performers and those associated with public entertainment, which the text often links to distraction from duty or loose morality. Cruel Men (
Individuals who display persistent malevolence or violent tendencies toward others. Heretical Sects ( Pāṣaṇḍas
Traditionally interpreted as followers of non-Vedic religions (such as early Buddhists or Jains) who did not adhere to the Brahminical social order. Doers of Evil Deeds ( Vikarmasthān Those who abandon their prescribed duties ( ) to engage in forbidden or unethical occupations. Dealers in Wine ( Śauṇḍikāṃśca Sellers of intoxicants, which the Manusmriti
generally condemns as a major source of sin and social disorder. The Role of the King In the context of the Manusmriti
, the king’s primary duty is to protect his subjects and uphold
. Verse 225 functions as a preemptive legal measure. By banishing these groups, the king is thought to be "pruning" the city of influences that could lead to the moral decay of the population. Historical and Modern Context
Historically, this verse reflects the rigid social structures and moral codes of ancient Brahminical society. In modern times, verses like 9.225 are often analyzed by scholars to understand ancient perspectives on social exclusion, religious pluralism (or the lack thereof), and the state's role in enforcing private morality. or punishments for other crimes? Manusmriti Verse 9.2
Understanding Manusmriti Chapter 9 Verse 225: A Guide to Ancient Indian Law and Social Norms
The Manusmriti, also known as the Laws of Manu, is an ancient Indian text that is considered one of the most important works on Hindu law and social norms. Composed in the 2nd century BCE, the Manusmriti is a comprehensive treatise on the duties and responsibilities of individuals in a Hindu society. The text consists of 12 chapters and 2685 verses, each providing guidance on various aspects of life, from spiritual and moral duties to social and legal norms.
In this article, we will focus on Manusmriti Chapter 9 Verse 225, a significant verse that sheds light on the social and familial responsibilities of individuals in ancient India.
Manusmriti Chapter 9 Verse 225: The Original Text
The original text of Manusmriti Chapter 9 Verse 225 is as follows: The Manusmriti Chapter 9, Verse 225 , serves
"āpatti-kāle pareśānaṁ striyaṁ bhāgineya-sāntānaṁ paśūnāṁ rūpa-dārśanam ātmano yad-icchāyāṁ vā niṛṇītaṁ tena tād-ṛṇaṁ śreyān vyākrīḍitāṁ rājan niṛṇītaṁ ca yathā sthitam"
Translation and Interpretation
Translated into English, the verse reads:
"During a calamity, when a man is overwhelmed, the wife, children, and dependants are to be maintained according to one's ability; similarly, the well-being of one's own self, and that of the animals, should be ensured; whatever is decided by a wise and just man, in accordance with his own discretion, is considered the best; and it is thus to be understood as the guiding principle for kings."
Context and Significance
Manusmriti Chapter 9 Verse 225 is significant because it highlights the importance of familial and social responsibilities during times of crisis. The verse emphasizes that during difficult situations, such as natural disasters, wars, or economic hardships, an individual should prioritize the well-being of their family members, dependants, and even animals.
The verse also underscores the importance of personal discretion and decision-making in resolving conflicts and making difficult choices. According to the verse, a wise and just individual should use their own judgment to make decisions that benefit themselves, their family, and society as a whole.
Relevance to Ancient Indian Society
In ancient Indian society, the Manusmriti was considered a seminal text that governed social and familial norms. The text was widely studied and respected by scholars, jurists, and rulers, who used its principles to guide their decisions and actions.
Manusmriti Chapter 9 Verse 225, in particular, reflects the values and priorities of ancient Indian society. During times of crisis, the well-being of family and dependants was considered paramount, and individuals were expected to take responsibility for their care and maintenance.
Influence on Modern Indian Law and Society
The Manusmriti has had a lasting impact on Indian law and society. Many of its principles and concepts have been incorporated into modern Indian law, particularly in the areas of family law, property rights, and social welfare.
Manusmriti Chapter 9 Verse 225, with its emphasis on familial and social responsibilities, continues to influence contemporary Indian society. The verse's message of prioritizing the well-being of family and dependants during times of crisis resonates with modern Indian values of family and community.
Criticisms and Controversies
The Manusmriti has faced criticisms and controversies over the years, particularly with regard to its treatment of women, lower castes, and other marginalized groups. Some critics have argued that the text perpetuates social and economic inequalities, while others have seen it as a reflection of ancient Indian society's rigid social hierarchies. Key takeaway: Verse 9
Manusmriti Chapter 9 Verse 225, however, offers a more nuanced perspective on social and familial responsibilities. While the verse does reflect the patriarchal and social norms of ancient India, it also highlights the importance of personal discretion and decision-making in resolving conflicts and making difficult choices.
Conclusion
Manusmriti Chapter 9 Verse 225 offers valuable insights into ancient Indian society's values and priorities. The verse emphasizes the importance of familial and social responsibilities during times of crisis and highlights the role of personal discretion and decision-making in resolving conflicts.
As a significant text in Hindu law and social norms, the Manusmriti continues to influence contemporary Indian society. While criticisms and controversies surround the text, Manusmriti Chapter 9 Verse 225 remains an important guide to understanding ancient Indian values and principles.
Recommendations for Further Study
For those interested in studying the Manusmriti and its significance, we recommend:
By studying the Manusmriti and related texts, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of ancient Indian society and its values, as well as appreciate the ongoing influence of these texts on modern Indian law and society.
Here is the text of Manusmriti (Manu Smriti), Chapter 9, Verse 225, along with its context and meaning.
The verse concludes with a profound causal link: rakṣāṇāṃ hi mūlam idam ("for this is the root of their protection").
This creates a reciprocal loop. If the society fails to protect even its worst members (the lawless and the wayward), it severes the root of its own existence. Why? Because the legitimacy of a Dharmic system rests on its ability to sustain life unconditionally. If protection becomes transactional (i.e., "I only protect you if you behave"), the ruler ceases to be a Dharmapala (Protector of Dharma) and becomes merely a merchant of safety. By protecting the wayward, the state asserts its sovereignty over them, maintaining its role as the "root."
The Manusmriti (The Laws of Manu) is one of the most ancient and debated legal texts in the history of the Indian subcontinent. Composed roughly between the 2nd century BCE and the 3rd century CE, it is a Dharmaśāstra—a treatise on righteous living, social duties, and legal procedures. For centuries, it served as a reference point for Hindu jurisprudence, particularly concerning the varna (caste) system and the roles of women.
However, in the modern era, the Manusmriti is a focal point of intense ideological conflict. To some, it is an invaluable historical record of ancient social evolution. To others, it is a patriarchal and casteist document whose verses justify systemic oppression. No verse exemplifies this tension more starkly than Chapter 9, Verse 225.
In this article, we will dissect this controversial verse: its literal translation, its contextual meaning within ancient law, its intended legal function, and why it remains a lightning rod in contemporary social discourse.
उद्वाहयित्वा श्रोत्रियं भूत्वा चैव द्विजोत्तमः। प्रयच्छेद्दुहितरं तस्मै यस्तु स्याद्गुणवत्तरः॥ २२५ ॥