Sutra 5

Devanagari script

वधे वधः ॥ कZ_०४.११.०५ ॥

Transliteration

vadhe vadhaḥ

Translation

For killing, (the penalty is) killing (capital punishment).

Word by Word

• वधे: in the case of execution; when (the matter is) killing/capital punishment
• Type: Noun
• Root: वध
• Form: पुंलिङ्ग; सप्तमी-एकवचन (अधिकरणे)

• वधः: execution (is the penalty)
• Type: Noun
• Root: वध
• Form: पुंलिङ्ग; प्रथमा-एकवचन (विधेय/न्यायवाक्ये)

Entities Mentioned

• homicide offender
• state executioner/judiciary

More Details

FAQs

What is the underlying niti (policy) logic of 'vadhe vadhaḥ'?

Maximum deterrence and moral symmetry: the state signals that intentional lethal violence is incompatible with public order.