Caste System: Four Principal Categories of the Varna System

 

Caste System: Four Principal Categories of the Varna System

The four principal categories of the varna system are as follows:

Varna System.

Brahmins :

The Brahmins occupied the highest position in the varna system. They were the ones entitled to practice sacrifices. They held the top position in terms of spiritual order. They symbolised the link between the four varnas and the eternal entity. A Brahmin women can marry a Brahmin man, however, she was given enough freedom to marry a man of her choice.

Kshatriya :

The Kshatriya occupied the second position in terms of hierarchy after the Brahmins. They were considered the warrior class, i.e., their main task was to fight in the fields. It was their responsibility to protect the other three varnas from any foreign enemies. A Kshatriya was allowed to marry a woman of all varnas. Though a Brahman or Kshatriya woman was preferred, a shudra woman was not barred from marrying a Kshatriya.

Vaishyas :

The vaishyas were third in terms of hierarchy. They comprised of traders, farmers, and other professionals. They worked closely with the administration to improve the living conditions by venturing into profitable commercial opportunities. Women of this Varna, shared the burden of work by supporting their husbands in cattle rearing, agriculture, and business, . The vaishya women were provided with the freedom to marry a man from any varna, however , marrying a shudra man was generally not practiced.

Shudras :

They occupied the lowest position in terms of hierarchy. The main task was to serve the upper three varnas and perform menial jobs. They were barred from practising any rituals. They were allowed to hear and memorise the Vedas as mentioned in Atharva Veda. Some Shudras were allowed to work as farmers and traders. The Shudra women could marry a male from any varna. However a Shudra male could marry a woman only from the Shudra varna.