06/02/2015
The Hindu Caste System
Concept of cast system:
The Hindu caste system is unique in the world, but resembles in some ways Plato’s ideal society of philosophers, warriors and commoners. A caste is a division of society based on occupation and family lineage. Hindu caste system recognized four distinct classes or divisions among people based on these criteria and enforced it through a rigid code of conduct that was specific to each class and rooted in the dharmashastras ( law book) of the later vedic period .
Brahmins: They are the priestly class, who are entitled to study the vedas, perform rites and rituals for themselves and for others and obliged to observe sacraments, they are the middle man between gods and men.
Kshatriyas: They are warrior class, who are commanded (by tradition) to protect the people, bestow gifts to the Brahmins , offer sacrifices to god and ancestor, study the vedas, dispense justice and according to Manusmriti abstain themselves from sensual pleasure .Manu laid down that it was a king’s duty to protect his people and his kingdom.
Vaishyas: They are the merchant and peasant classes. Who are expected to tend cattle, offer sacrifices, study the vedas, trade lend money and cultivate the land.
Shudras: They are the labor class, whose only duty is to serve the other three castes. They were not required to observe any vedic rituals or samskaras except a few. They were not allowed to study the vedas or even hear the sacred chants.