कितवान् कुशीलवान् क्रूरान् पाषण्डस्थांश्च मानवान् ।विकर्मस्थान् शौण्डिकांश्च क्षिप्रं निर्वासयेत् पुरात् ॥ २२५ ॥
– This verse is often compared with Manu 9.88–9.90, which discuss exceptions for choosing a groom based on character even if the family background is less known. Verse 225 reinforces the idea that virtue outweighs pedigree.
The categories listed here are:
The , serves as a directive for maintaining public order by identifying and expelling individuals perceived as socially disruptive or "shady." The Verse (Translation) 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.
┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ Subversive Behavior (Verse 9.225) │ └───────────────────────────┬────────────────────────────┘ │ Disrupts order ▼ ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ Pracchanna Taskarāḥ / Disguised Thieves │ └───────────────────────────┬────────────────────────────┘ │ Preys on citizenry (9.226) ▼ ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ Kṣipraṃ Nirvāsaye / Immediate Banishment │ └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
: Those who manufacture fake currency or weights, directly undermining the economic stability and trust of the marketplace. Context and Commentary One evening, a wise advisor
Non-Vedic sects and liquor sellers. 4. Context and Commentary
One evening, a wise advisor approached the King and quoted the ancient law:
The directive to "instantly banish" (kṣipraṃ nirvāsayet) these individuals emphasizes the king's responsibility for active, rapid intervention to prevent the spread of immoral conduct. Context and Commentary One evening
The directive is clear and urgent: the king should expel ( nirvāsayet ) these people quickly ( kṣipram ) from the town ( purāt ). This reflects the ancient Indian concept of a well-ordered society where certain professions or behaviors were considered disruptive to social and religious norms.
Unregulated liquor manufacturing and distribution were treated as direct hazards to civil stability. Taverns served as primary assembly points for thieves, rebels, and fugitives. By banishing the merchants from the city walls, the state disrupted the infrastructure of the local criminal underworld. The Strategic Logic of Instant Exile
The mandate for instant banishment from the "town" ( purāt ) reflects an ancient urban planning ideal where the capital city must remain pure and free from "sinful" influences to ensure the King’s prosperity.