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Answer the following queslons H Delail1. What led to the rise of new castes and hierarchy in the varna-based Indian society in themedieval period? |
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Answer» According to this theory, the caste system is of divine origin. It says caste system is an extension of the varna system, where the 4 varnas originated from the body of Bramha. At the top of the hierarchy were the Brahmins who were mainly teachers and intellectuals and came from Brahma’s head. Kshatriyas, or the warriors and rulers, came from his arms. Vaishyas, or the traders, were created from his thighs. At the bottom were the Shudras, who came from Brahma’s feet. The mouth signifies its use for preaching, learning etc, the arms – protections, thighs – to cultivate or business, feet – helps the whole body, so the duty of the Shudras is to serve all the others. The sub castes emerged later due to inter marriages between the 4 varnas. The proponents of this theory cite Purushasuktaof Rigveda, Manusmriti etc to support their stand. |
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