Significance of Caste system
The caste system, according to Hinduism and various related texts, is a complex social hierarchy that categorizes individuals primarily based on birth and occupation. Traditionally divided into four main groups—Brahmana, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Shudra—this system has significantly influenced social roles, duties, and interactions throughout Indian history. However, it has also faced criticism for fostering discrimination and rigidity in societal structures, prompting discussions on the need to transcend these classifications in favor of recognition based on personal qualities rather than hereditary status.
Synonyms: Social hierarchy, Social structure, Caste hierarchy, Class structure, Social stratification
In Dutch: Kastenstelsel; In Finnish: Kastijärjestelmä; In Spanish: Sistema de castas
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Caste system'
The caste system in Buddhism represents a challenged societal structure, emphasizing equality over hierarchy, as highlighted in the Buddha's teachings and the experiences of characters, including the discrimination faced by marginalized groups like candalas.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The social hierarchy reflected in the interactions and conflicts of characters, notably highlighting the discrimination faced by the candalas.[1] (2) Refers to the social stratification in the story, indicated by Kana’s marriage to a husband of the same caste.[2]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A social stratification system that the Buddha disregarded in his teachings, promoting equality among all individuals.[3] (2) The traditional social structure that divided society into four sections, which was challenged by the Buddha's doctrine.[4]
Hindu concept of 'Caste system'
The caste system in Hinduism is a hierarchical social structure categorizing individuals based on birth and occupation, dictating roles, privileges, and influencing practices like marriage and inheritance within Indian society.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A social stratification system mentioned in relation to the inhabitants of different continents, assigning roles based on service and worship.[5] (2) The societal hierarchy in Hinduism that categorizes individuals into specific groups based on their occupation and spiritual duties.[6] (3) The social classification system in Hindu society, where individuals are assigned roles based on heredity and tradition.[7] (4) Refers to societal structure where rights and duties are assigned, indicating that only noble-souled Brahmanas have the authority to impart instructions.[8] (5) Social stratification in Vedic society where individuals are expected to adhere to their designated duties and roles.[9]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The social stratification inherent in the society discussed, influencing the way respect and roles are designated among individuals.[10] (2) A social structure in Hindu society that classifies individuals based on their roles and professions, influencing rituals and spiritual practices.[11] (3) A hierarchical structure of social classes in Hindu society, mentioned in the context of various groups present.[12] (4) A societal structure denoting class divisions, which impacts personal relationships and interactions as seen through the dialogue between characters.[13] (5) A hierarchical social structure in ancient India, including the brahmanas, kshatriyas, and vaishyas, which Vena was part of but failed to respect.[14]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) The social structure evidenced by the disciplined conduct and behavior of people in Plakshadvipa based on Varnas.[15] (2) The societal structure as per Hindu tradition, differentiating roles based on birth.[16]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The social hierarchy into which the characters, such as King Suratha and the Vaishya, were categorized, shaping their identities and experiences.[17]
From: Agni Purana
(1) A hierarchical social structure dividing people into categories such as brahmins, kshatriyas, vaishyas, and shudras, impacting their rights and punishments.[18]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) Social stratification referenced within the Anugita, showcasing its evolution compared to earlier texts like the Bhagavadgita.[19]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) The social stratification observed in Hindu society, which is addressed in varying contexts within the teachings of the Bhagavadgita.[20]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The hierarchy of social classes in the text, established by birth and societal roles, dictating the functions and privileges of each group.[21]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The hierarchical structure of society determined by birth and occupation, deeply rooted in Vedic culture with significant moral and social implications.[22]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The hierarchical social structure that dictates the roles and responsibilities of different groups, including the restrictions on the Shudra concerning spiritual and legal matters.[23] (2) The social stratification that dictates the different forms of marriage appropriate for each caste, namely Brahmana, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Shudra.[24] (3) A hierarchical social stratification observed in certain societies, delineating duties and responsibilities across different social groups.[25] (4) The social structure within Vedic society where individuals are categorized into different groups (Brahmana, Kshatriya, Vaishya) with designated roles.[26] (5) The social stratification in Hindu society that divides people into different groups, each with prescribed roles and rituals concerning purity.[27]
From: Yajnavalkya-smriti (Vyavaharadhyaya)—Critical study
(1) The societal division established in ancient India that influenced legal relationships and individual status within the Yajnavalkyasmriti's jurisdiction.[28] (2) A social stratification in Hindu society influencing inheritance laws and the privileges afforded to heirs based on birth.[29] (3) A hierarchical social structure in India that classifies people based on their birth and occupation, influencing marriage and inheritance practices.[30] (4) A social stratification system in ancient India that categorizes people into specific groups based on occupation and social status.[31]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) The societal structure in which duties and marriage customs are strictly defined for the three (lower) castes by the Brahmana.[32] (2) A hierarchical social structure traditionally dividing society into various categories based on profession and birth.[33]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The hierarchical social structure in India that categorizes individuals based on birth and profession, affecting eunuchs significantly.[34] (2) A social stratification observed in many cultures, influencing personal relationships and narrative outcomes, particularly in royal settings.[35] (3) A hierarchical social structure in Hindu society that divides people into distinct classes, although intermarriage and occupational roles transcended strict boundaries in some tales.[36] (4) A hierarchical structure in society that influences the marriageable options based on social class.[37] (5) A social stratification system in India that governs the profession, duties, and status of individuals, playing a significant role in the practice of sacred prostitution.[38]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) A hierarchical structure of social classes in Indian society that defines individuals' social and occupational roles.[39] (2) The hierarchical social stratification based on socio-economic roles, which significantly influenced the social structure, consisting of four main castes.[40] (3) The social stratification system in ancient India, comprising four main varnas and various sub-castes, which influenced the social structure.[41] (4) A social stratification system in India that developed later in history and is closely associated with the four stages of life, characterized by rigid social hierarchies.[42]
From: Bhishma Charitra
(1) A traditional classification of society into different groups with specific duties and roles.[43] (2) The hierarchical structure of society that influences the characters' decisions and moral dilemmas, although not explicitly stated in the text.[44]
From: Malatimadhava (study)
(1) The social stratification comprised of four main castes (Brahmana, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Shudra) which influenced interactions and marriages depicted in the Malatimadhava.[45] (2) A hierarchical social structure in Hindu society divided into four main varnas, each fulfilling distinct roles.[46]
From: Dvisahasri of Tembesvami (Summary and Study)
(1) A social hierarchy in India that Tembesvami engaged with by helping people from all castes without disturbing their faith.[47]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A traditional social hierarchy in Indian society that influences the roles, duties, and social standing of individuals, particularly within Hinduism.[48] (2) The classification framework within society, which this text suggests should be transcended by recognizing qualities over birth.[49] (3) A hierarchical social structure that divides people into categories based on their family background, which negatively influences the perception of Vaishnavas in this context.[50] (4) A social stratification system that Shrivasa Pandita is not associated with.[51] (5) A hierarchical social structure in which people are born into specific groups that dictate their social status and occupations.[52]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) A social organization that emerged as a distortion of the original varnashrama principles, which were intended for spiritual cultivation and social harmony.[53] (2) A social classification that the characters navigate, with Sri Gaursundar's birth in a Brahmana family being a focal point.[54] (3) A social structure in Hindu society that categorizes individuals based on heredity and social roles, called into question by the practices of Thakur Haridas.[55] (4) A system of social stratification in Hindu society, often misunderstood in its relationship with spirituality and religious duties.[56]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A traditional social stratification system that classifies individuals based on hereditary status.[57]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) The social stratification mentioned in the text, which divides society into different groups with specific roles and duties.[58]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) A hierarchical social system in ancient India, divided into four groups: Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Shudra.[59] (2) The social stratification in India, which the Natyashastra aims to entertain and engage people from all castes.[60] (3) A hierarchical structure in society that categorizes individuals based on their social class, which Bhasa adhered to.[61]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A social structure in ancient India where skills and knowledge were often passed down from father to son, leading to rigidity.[62] (2) A social hierarchy that assigns individuals to specific groups based on lineage, which the text criticizes as arbitrary.[63]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) A historical societal structure that categorized individuals based on birth, with implications for social status and spiritual access.[64]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) An ancient social hierarchy that was effectively absent in educational access at the universities, promoting a more democratic learning environment.[65]
From: Lakulisha-Pashupata (Philosophy and Practice)
(1) A social stratification system in India that some Siddhas, such as Saraha, openly criticized and sought to transcend.[66]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A social hierarchy in ancient India that classified individuals into different groups (varnas) based on their occupation and role in society.[67]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) A framework of social stratification within society, influencing legal standing and duties under sacred law.[68]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) A hierarchical social structure in ancient India, defined by the fourfold varna system, that stratified society based on social classes.[69]
The concept of Caste system in local and regional sources
The caste system represents a rigid social hierarchy in India, categorizing individuals based on birth and occupation, often leading to discrimination and limiting social mobility, as critiqued in various literary and cultural contexts.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A traditional social stratification system in India, which divides individuals into hierarchical groups based on occupation and social roles.[70] (2) A social stratification system prevalent in India that categorizes individuals into hierarchical groups.[71] (3) A social stratification system that divides people into classes based on inherited status, impacting social dynamics and relationships.[72] (4) A hierarchical social structure traditionally dividing people into categories based on their occupations and rituals.[73] (5) A traditional social hierarchy in India that categorizes individuals into different groups based on birth and occupation.[74]
From: Formal Education System in Ancient India
(1) The hierarchical social structure in ancient India that imposed rigid limitations on education and access to learning opportunities, notably affecting the Shudras and women.[75] (2) A social structure that determined educational opportunities and prescribed specific courses of study for different Varnas.[76] (3) A social hierarchy in which different duties are assigned to different castes, complicating traditional social services.[77] (4) A hierarchical social structure that categorized individuals based on birth, which later became rigid and affected educational access.[78] (5) A social hierarchy that outlined eligibility for educational opportunities, notably among the three high-born castes.[79]
From: Lord Jhulelal: An Analytical Study
(1) A social structure typically associated with division of people based on hereditary roles; noted to be absent in Sindhi society.[80] (2) A social structure gradually established without regard to color, consisting of rigid hereditary divisions and sub-castes based on trade.[81]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) The social hierarchy that impacts the characters' views of themselves and others within the narrative.[82]
From: Folk Tales of Gujarat (and Jhaverchand Meghani)
(1) The social hierarchy that impacts the lives and relationships of the characters, particularly affecting Maluva's status after her ordeal.[83]
From: Impact of Vedic Culture on Society
(1) A hierarchical societal structure in India that was intertwined with claims of Aryan descent, often fueling division among various groups within Indian society.[84]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) Refers to the societal organization within the kingdom, which was established as Simhala expanded and developed a complex social structure.[85]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) The traditional social hierarchy in Sri Lankan society that influences roles and daily life.[86]
The concept of Caste system in scientific sources
The Caste system represents a hierarchical social structure influencing resource accessibility, particularly in the context of medicinal plants, where caste identities dictate the distribution and management of these valuable resources.
From: Ancient Science of Life
(1) A social stratification prevalent in the region influencing access to resources, including medicinal plants.[87]