The origins of the caste system
- About 1500BC, powerful nomadic warriors known as Aryans appeared in northern India. The warriors were from Central Asia. But managed to overcome the Himalayas by finding lower passes in the mountains, such as the Khyber Pass in Pakistan. The Aryans conquered the Dravidians of Central India and imposed their social structure upon them.
The meaning of “ Varna”
- The other social class before the Caste system
Four main Varna
· the Brahmins: scholars, teachers, priests and sages
· the Kshatriya: kings, soldiers, and rulers
· the Vaishyas: merchants, cattle herders and agriculturists
· the Shudras: labourers, craftsmen and artisans
Fifth Varna
- people are now called Dalits or Harijans; they were formerly known as “untouchables”
Jati
-In Inida and Nepal the sub-communities within a varna are called “Jati”
General rule of Jati
-Only Jaties could get married.
Upanishads
- Philosophical texts considered being an early source of Hindu religion.
Brahman
-the Highest class in the Caste system that is considered Monk or Priest.
Karma
- Indian religions is the concept of "action" or "deed",
