Wikipedia: Varnasrama Dharma

 

Wikipedia: Varnasrama Dharma

The concept of VarNa has been one of the most misunderstood concepts of Hinduism. Modern intellectuals have considered varNa and JAti system to be degrading, discriminating and violating human rights. Such a generalization is far from the Truth. Due to these misconceptions, Caste and jAti have become an easy fodder for opponents of Hinduism to mischaracterize Hinduism.

Concept of VarNa as described in the Hindu scriptures is an universal psychological classification system of human beings. 

This categorization applies to all societies at all times. There is no concept of superiority or discrimination of any of the groups within the varNa system. VarNa system is a pure psychological classification of human beings that can be helpful in identifying psychological tendencies within human beings.

Seventh Chapter of Srimad Bhagavatham describes the highest and the most sublime ethical principles ever put together by human beings. These principles of Sanatana Dharma represent the ethical principles that need to be practiced by all human beings for spiritual elevation. This portion of the 7th canto is a conversation between DharmarAja and Maharshi NArada. First part of the dialog describes the ethical principles for all human beings. Then they discuss ethical principles for different varNas or groups of people. 

They say that this definition came from Lord NArayana himself. Maharshis who put together these principles were sages of the highest order. Anything that comes from by sages of such caliber will not have unethical principles such as discrimination and untouchability. If you read the ethical principles in detail, this fact becomes obvious to everybody.

This paper is based on the talks given by esteemed Sanskrit Scholar, Philosopher, Author of several philosophical works and Poet, Sri Bannanje GovindAcharya. Sri GovindAcharya is one of the foremost scholars of VaishNava and Indian philosophy in South India. He has brought to light many previously unknown works of various scholars and has written many commentaries on variety of Philosophical works. He is well known for his incisive analysis and deep thinking about scriptures. From this analysis, he can give scientific explanations of various practices of Hinduism and how these aspects of Hinduism are relevant in the modern world.

By reading this paper, the reader will get a clear idea of varNas as defined in the shastras in particular in the Srimad Bhagavatha purANa. All the misconceptions about varNa are removed. Reader will realize that the positions of the great rishis and the scriptures on the subject of varNa, represent the highest ideals known to mankind. Reader will also know the difference between VarNa and JAti. Reader will know that unethical practices seen in the current society of untouchability and discrimination have no place in what rishis say about ethical principles in Srimad BhAgavatham.