Translations:Ahimsa/2/en

The foundation of Hindu law is the Code or Institutes of Manu, an ancient collection of laws based on custom, precedent and the teachings of the Vedas. This highly revered code defined the rules of conduct and their application to all the classes of the community. According to the code, the taking of life warranted the death penalty in order to reduce violence in society by deterring others from committing the same crime and to allow for expiation of sin.