The Hindu Caste System

The Hindu Caste System

The true origins of the Hindu caste system are not quite known or agreed upon. Some argue that it was a religiously organized (Hindu) system of social segregation founded by the people of the Indus-Valley region of what is modern day Pakistan. Others argue that it was a system of racial segregation which was brought in and mixed with the already established religious system by the invading and concurring White Aryan tribes from the north; in an effort to separate their white society from the darker Indus-Valley society and thus provide a means to support their domination over them.
    The caste system or Verda as it is called by its religious name is supported by the Hindu Law Book of Dharmashastras and is based on several factors, chief among them being profession/occupation. There are four different levels in the caste system with a hierarchical approach. The first is Brahman, which is the highest level and in which reside the more affluent lighter skinned toned people and the priest/teachers. They enjoy the most privileges and are thought to possess superior intelligence and wisdom. They are the middle men between gods and humans. Second is the Kshatriyas, this is the warrior caste they protect the people and dispense judgment and punishment as well as maintain social order. Third is the Vaishyas, these are the merchants and peasants; they tend animals and farm the land. Fourth is the Shudras, this is the working class and they serve to work for the other three classes. There is also another class of people considered “outsiders” because they do not fall into any of the four main groups or they have been kicked out of one of the groups.   It is from within these four (five) levels that all Hindus are born, live, marry and die.
  As with all religions there are advantages and disadvantages. To its advantage the caste system promoted unity, strengthened the bonds of relationship in friendship, marriage and professional interaction. It...