Varna (Hinduism)
Varṇa (Sanskrit: वर्ण), in the context of Hinduism, refers to a social class within a hierarchical traditional Hindu society. The ideology is epitomized in texts like Manusmriti, which describes and ranks four varnas, and prescribes their occupations, requirements and duties, or Dharma.
- Brahmins: Vedic scholars, priests or teachers.
- Kshatriyas: Rulers, administrators or warriors.
- Vaishyas: Agriculturalists, farmers or merchants.
- Shudras: Artisans, laborers or servants.
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This quadruple division is a form of social stratification, quite different from the more nuanced system of Jātis, which correspond to the European term "caste".
The varna system is discussed in Hindu texts, and understood as idealised human callings. The concept is generally traced to the Purusha Sukta verse of the Rig Veda. In the post-Vedic period, the varna division is described the Mahabharata, Puranas and in the Dharmashastra literatures.
The commentary on the Varna system in the Manusmriti is often cited. Counter to these textual classifications, many Hindu texts and doctrines question and disagree with the Varna system of social classification.
In India, Communities which belong to one of the four varnas or classes are called savarna Hindus. The Dalits and tribals who do not belong to any varna were called avarna.