Varna & Castes
Religious Studies: KS3, topic 2.2.15
The Traditional Varna System
The traditional Varna System
- The Varna System is part of Hindu teachings.
- It probably originated in the Vedic period (1500–500 BCE).
- The Vedas describe the Varna System.
- The Varna System was a social system in which people are born into groups called varnas (social orders).
- Each varna had its own dharma (duties and responsibilities).
- This system helped people understand their role in society and how to live ethically.
Four Varnas
- Brahmins, the priests → Lead worship and provide spiritual guidance.
- Kshatriyas, the rulers and administrators → The government and civil service that maintain an ordered society.
- Vaishyas, the merchants and farmers → Responsible for production and trade.
- Shudras, the labourers → Do the main manual work needed in any community.
The Caste System
Castes
- Over time, the Varna System developed into a rigid caste system.
- In the caste system, people are born into a group and can not change it.
- The family a person is born into dictates their caste. To a great extent, it also dictates what work a person will do.
- The caste system led to inequality and unfair treatment for many people.
- Some groups, called “Dalits” or “outcastes,” were treated very badly and denied rights.
Modern views
- Many Hindus today reject caste discrimination, seeing it as against true dharma.
- Modern Hindu leaders, such as Mahatma Gandhi, taught that all people are equal before God.
- The Indian Constitution has made caste discrimination illegal and promotes equal rights for everyone.
Test yourself on Varna & Castes
What are the four castes?
Which caste is responsible for the government and civil service, who maintain an ordered society?
What does the word varna mean?
What problem developed from the varna system over time?
What is correct about the caste system in India?