The verse also underscores the significance of family lineage and social harmony. It emphasizes that the adoption of a spouse should not lead to discontentment among the kin or disregard for family customs. This provision ensures that the adopted individual is integrated into the family with respect and dignity.
"The father protects (her) in childhood, the husband protects (her) in youth, and the son protects (her) in old age; a woman is not fit for independence." manusmriti chapter 9 verse 225
Manusmriti 9.225 states that a woman should be under the protection of her father, husband, and son in childhood, youth, and old age respectively, concluding that she is not fit for independence. This verse exemplifies the patriarchal framework of classical dharmashastra. However, it has been widely criticized by modern scholars, reformers, and courts. India’s legal system and most contemporary Hindu traditions do not accept this verse as binding. It is best understood as a historical artifact of ancient social stratification, not a universal or eternal dharma. The verse also underscores the significance of family
पिता रक्षति कौमारे भर्ता रक्षति यौवने । पुत्रस्तु वार्धके रक्षति न स्त्री स्वातन्त्र्यमर्हति ॥ (Manusmriti 9.225) "The father protects (her) in childhood, the husband