Shloka 15
मोक्षोपाय-निर्णयः
Determination of the Means to Liberation
तदा विसर्गमर्हा: स्युरितीदं धातृशासनम् | बिभ्रद् दण्डाजिन मुण्डो ब्राह्मणो5हति शासनम्
tadā visargam arhāḥ syur itīdaṃ dhātṛśāsanam | bibhrad daṇḍājina-muṇḍo brāhmaṇo 'pi hi śāsanam ||
«Alors il faut les relâcher» : tel est l’ordonnance du Créateur. Même un brāhmane renonçant, la tête rasée, portant le bâton et la peau de daim, s’il commet une faute, demeure soumis au châtiment selon la loi. La leçon morale est claire : l’asile et le repentir peuvent appeler la clémence, mais l’apparence religieuse n’exempte personne de responsabilité.
इुमत्सेन उवाच
Educational Q&A
Mercy may be shown by releasing those who seek refuge with sincere resolve to abandon wrongdoing, as taught by the Creator; however, outward religious status or ascetic dress does not grant immunity—wrongdoing remains punishable.
Umatsena states a dharma-rule: certain offenders can be spared when they come under protection and vow reform, but he immediately adds a balancing principle—an ascetic Brahmin, despite renunciant marks (staff, deerskin, shaven head), is still liable to discipline if he commits sin.