Varna System
Varna (Sanskrit: वर्ण, romanized: varṇa, Hindi pronunciation: [‘ʋəɾɳə]), in the context of Hinduism, refers to a social class within a hierarchical traditional Hindu society. The ideology of varna is epitomized in texts like Manusmriti, which describes and ranks four varnas, and prescribes their occupations, requirements and duties, or Dharma.
Brahmins: Vedic scholars, priests or teachers.
Kshatriyas: Rulers, administrators or warriors.
Vaishyas: Agriculturalists, farmers or merchants.
Shudras: Artisans, labourers or servants.
This quadruple division is a form of social stratification, quite different from the more nuanced system of Jātis, which correspond to the term “caste”.
The varna system is discussed in Hindu texts, and understood as idealised human callings. The concept is generally traced back to the Purusha Sukta verse of the Rigveda. In the post-Vedic period, the varna division is described in the Mahabharata, Puranas and in the Dharmashastra literatures.
The commentary on the Varna system in the Manusmriti is often cited. Counter to these textual classifications, many Hindu texts and doctrines question and disagree with the Varna system of social classification.
In India, communities that belong to one of the four varnas or classes are called savarna Hindus. The Dalits and tribals who do not belong to any varna were called avarna.
In Hinduism, “varna” refers to a broad social grouping or class, traditionally categorized into four classes: Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (farmers and merchants), and Shudras (laborers). These varnas are described in ancient scriptures like the Vedas and the Bhagavad Gita.
Key Aspects of Varna:
- Four Classes: The varna system outlines four primary social categories:
- Brahmins: Considered the highest varna, associated with priests, scholars, teachers, and those involved in religious and intellectual pursuits.
- Kshatriyas: Comprised of rulers, warriors, administrators, and those involved in maintaining order and defense.
- Vaishyas: Encompassed farmers, merchants, traders, and those involved in economic activities.
- Shudras: The lowest varna, traditionally associated with laborers, artisans, and those providing service to other varnas.
- Not Caste: It’s important to distinguish varna from the more rigid and hereditary caste system (Jati). While varna is a broad classification, caste is a more complex system of social stratification based on birth and occupation.
- Scriptural Basis: Varnas are described in ancient Hindu texts like the Vedas and the Bhagavad Gita, which provide guidance on the duties and roles associated with each varna.
- Original Purpose: It’s not entirely clear whether varnas were originally intended to be rigid social classes determined by birth or simply a way to categorize social roles and occupations based on inherent qualities.
- Bhagavad Gita: The Bhagavad Gita suggests that one’s varna is determined by their innate qualities and tendencies.
In essence, the varna system provides a framework for understanding the different roles and responsibilities within Hindu society, while the caste system represents the more complex and often hierarchical social structure that evolved alongside it.