Caste System - Misconceptions about Hinduism

USResident · October 11, 2009, 1:28pm

As I have mentioned in numerous posts, caste system is a misunderstood concept. Its is no different than how the concept of “jehad” is misunderstood in Islam.

For the Nth time, Hinduism does notsupport caste system

Hinduism and Caste System: Does Hinduism support Caste system?

Does Hinduism support Caste system?
Hinduism does not support caste system. The focus of Hinduism is on the individual and his salvation not on his caste or its privileges. Scholars tend to quote the Purushasukta as the basis for the emergence of caste system. There are also references to caste system in the Bhagavad gita. But for a serious student of History, it becomes obvious that these references appear to be deliberate manipulations and later day interjection intended to justify a system that was otherwise fully unjustified. The Manusmriti, in the form that is available today did more damage to Hinduism and the self esteem of many Hindus than Islam and Christianity.

Hindus should be clearly aware of the distinction between a sacred scripture (shruti) and a book written by an individual (smriti) such as Manusmriti. Manusmriti was probably edited and reedited a hundred or thousand times by different scholars during different periods. It is time Hindus realize this and stop castigating Hinduism on the basis of this grotesquely tampered scripture. It is time they examine their thinking and take some positive steps to create a more equitable and dignified human society based on a new manava dharma shastra based on present day values and ideals.

PIUSA

I am not disagreeing that it is quite misunderstood however woefully by those who should have not distorted it. I don’t think you would deny me on that.

I don’t think we can say that there is no caste system given in Vedic scriptures, however is that division of labor still viable today or needed today. Has Hindu society evolved in such a way today that the caste system described in the Vedic scriptures has lost its significance or feasibility in todays society of Hindus? It is in the scriptures yet with no connection to todays society, and this is not necessarily a bad thing which would require denial of its existence at all in the scriptures.