HINDUISM TEST: next Monday (11.16); read Novak: selections from The World's Wisdoms
| what you really want | life
stages | moksha |
Pleasure
| student | brahmin |
Success
| household | kshatriyas |
| Renunciation | retire | vaishyas |
| sanyasin | shudras |
dharma = duty
karma = cosmic consequence <-- determines reincarnation, not inconsequential Western definition
Caste System
brahmins - intellectuals
kshatriyas - warriors
vaishyas - skilled laborers
shudras - unskilled laborers
Doing your dharma and what is right for your life stage --> reincarnation in a higher caste; getting closer to moksha.
No defined quantification of this process.
Critiques
- Only a few can achieve moksha
- Hinduism's response: one lifetime is insignificant in the grand scheme of things; if you do your dharma, you'll come back in a way that you can achieve moksha. Just not at the same time as everyone else.
- No social mobility -- you are what you are born. In this lifetime, you can't switch. Doesn't matter what your specific talents are.
- also cannot marry outside of your caste system <-- although not formally dictated in the western world, still seems to be the case...
- Why do brahmins, so much closer to moksha than shudras, commit similar crimes? (bribery, stealing, etc.)
- Hinduism's response: Brahmins are held to higher standards: they are expected to know and do better. Punishment is more severe for those higher up in the caste system.
- Segregation -- NOT an original intention, but a byproduct when practically applied.
- Caused untouchable caste to be created (below shudra) -- subjugation, inferior treatment.
- ^ Result of practical application, not original attention.
Advantages- All aspects of jobs are covered -- you'll always have all four castes.
- Job/social status security - you at least have what you have and you can't lose it in this lifetime, at least.
- Clearly defined roles transcending Western linear concept of time. Makes life goals simpler; what you're supposed to be doing is clear, based on where in the system you are.