Manusmriti: The Laws of Manu

211. Let him not perform for a wife of his teacher (the forces of) anointing her, assisting her in the bath, shampooing her limbs, or arranging her hair. 

212. (A pupil) who is full twenty years old, and knows what is becoming and un- becoming, shall not salute a young wife of his teacher (by clasping) her feet. 

213. It is the nature of women to seduce men in this (world); for that reason the wise are never unguarded in (the company of) females. 

214. For women are able to lead astray in (this) world not only a fool, but even a learned man, and (to make) him a slave of desire and anger. 

215. One should not sit in a lonely place with one's mother, sister, or daughter; for the senses are powerful, and master even a learned man. 

216. But at his pleasure a young student may prostrate himself on the ground before the young wife of a teacher, in accordance with the rule, and say, 'I, N. N., (worship thee, O lady).' 

217. On returning from a journey he must clasp the feet of his teacher's wife and daily salute her (in the manner just mentioned), remembering the duty of the virtuous. 

218. As the man who digs with a spade (into the ground) obtains water, even so an obedient (pupil) obtains the knowledge which lies (hidden) in his teacher. 

219. A (student) may either shave his head, or wear his hair in braids, or braid one lock on the crown of his head; the sun must never set or rise while he (lies asleep) in the village. 

220. If the sun should rise or set while he is sleeping, be it (that he fielded) intentionally or unintentionally, he shall fast during the (next) day, muttering (the Savitri). 

[ Back ] [ Manusmriti ] [ Up ] [ Next ]