Chapter 26

Viṣṇu Smriti 26

When there are many wives of the same varṇa, one should perform religious duties with the eldest.[^4] // Vi_26.1 //

And among wives of mixed varṇas, with the youngest, if she is of the same varṇa. // Vi_26.2 //

In the absence of a wife of the same varṇa, with the one next in order, but only in times of distress. // Vi_26.3 //

But a twice-born man shall never do so with a Śūdrā wife. // Vi_26.4 //

A Śūdrā wife of a twice-born man is never for the purpose of dharma; She is said to be only for the pleasure of him who is blinded by passion. || Vi_26.5 ||

Twice-born men who, out of delusion, marry a woman of a low caste, Quickly bring their families, along with their descendants, to the state of Śūdras. || Vi_26.6 ||

He whose rites for the gods, ancestors, and guests are presided over by her, The ancestors and gods do not eat his offerings, nor does he go to heaven. || Vi_26.7 ||