Those who profit from the sale of intoxicants were frequently targeted in ancient texts as contributors to moral decay. Historical and Social Context
Interpreted by commentators as those who might entrap others or lead them away from their duties. Krūrān (Cruel Men): Men of "crooked behavior" or those who act with malice. Pāṣaṇḍasthān (Heretics): manusmriti chapter 9 verse 225
Most modern readers view Dharma (duty/law) through a judicial lens—a system of rewards and punishments. However, Verse 225 reveals a deeper, almost ontological function of the social order: Those who profit from the sale of intoxicants
Often interpreted as those who are habitually violent or "crooked" in their behavior, constantly causing harm to others. Heretics (Pāṣaṇḍasthān): Commentators emphasize that this directive serves as a
Manusmriti Verse 9.225 mandates that the king immediately banish gamblers, deceptive individuals, cruel men, heretics, those acting against scriptures, and liquor sellers from the city to maintain public order. Commentators emphasize that this directive serves as a measure against public nuisances and threats to social morality, requiring the swift expulsion of these specific groups. For more information, visit Wisdomlib . Manusmriti Verse 9.225
The King realized that these characters were like weeds in a garden. If left alone, they would choke the growth of the peaceful citizens. He ordered his guards to identify the troublemakers. The fraudulent gamblers, the cruel men who bullied their neighbors, and those profiting from excessive drinking were all escorted to the city gates.