The original Sanskrit and its common translations focus on the distinction between "divine" ritual acts and "demoniacal" mundane acts:
, which claims animals were created by the "Self-Existent" (Brahma) for the sake of sacrifice. Historical and Modern Context Controversy: Like much of the Manusmriti manusmriti chapter 5 verse 31
Manu tries to have it both ways: uphold the Vedas (which permit sacrifice) while accommodating the new ethical sensibility (which questions all killing). Verse 5.31 is the textual scar of this historical tug-of-war. The original Sanskrit and its common translations focus
अतोऽन्यथा प्रवृत्तिस्तु राक्षसो विधिरुच्यते ॥ ३१ ॥ ritual-based meat consumption and demonic
Manusmriti 5.31 distinguishes between divine, ritual-based meat consumption and demonic, indulgent meat consumption, framing the former as sacred duty and the latter as sinful indulgence. This verse reflects the ancient Vedic, ritualistic balance between adhering to non-violence and performing necessary sacrifices.
न मांसभक्षणे दोषो न मद्ये न च मैथुने । प्रवृत्तिरेषा भूतानां निवृत्तिस्तु महाफला ॥ ३१ ॥
Scholars and traditional commentators like provide depth to this verse, highlighting the distinction between "divine" and "demonic" intent: