How should a woman be treated in relation to other family members according to Chapter IX of the Laws of Manu?

The idea presented in the context of the Laws of Manu reflects traditional views on the role of women within the family structure. According to Chapter IX of the Laws of Manu, a woman is generally seen as dependent on male family members, emphasizing that she should always have a male figure—be it a father, husband, or son—by her side. This perspective aligns with historical and cultural norms that have positioned women as reliant on men for guidance and protection throughout their lives.

The Laws of Manu are a code of conduct that define dharma (moral duty) and establish the roles of individuals within society, particularly regarding gender relations. In this framework, the idea that a woman is "never fit for independence" supports the view that her primary responsibilities and roles are nested within her relationships with the male members of her family, thus promoting reliance rather than independence.

The notion of giving women full independence or teaching them to be self-reliant contradicts the teachings outlined in the Laws of Manu, which prioritize familial loyalty and the interconnectedness of roles rather than individual autonomy for women. This reflects a larger cultural context that has historically influenced views on women's roles within various societies.