Q What is the role of the caste system in Hinduism?
A
The caste system (varna) historically divided Hindu society into four broad social and occupational classes: Brahmins (priests/scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors/rulers), Vaishyas (merchants/farmers), and Shudras (laborers).
While ancient texts described this as a fluid system based on an individual's natural aptitudes and duties, it evolved over centuries into a rigid, hereditary social hierarchy. Today, caste discrimination is illegal under the modern Indian constitution, and many spiritual leaders actively work to dismantle social prejudices.
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What is a Hindu?Hindu refers to any person who regards themselves as culturally, ethnically, or religiously adhering to aspects of Hinduism. It has historically been used as a geographical, cultural, and later religious identifier for people indigenous to the Indian subcontinent.