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What is the role of Brahmins in the caste system?
The Caste System (Brahmin and Kshatriya) The Brahmins held the most power in Hindu society , they were priests, otherwise known as the spiritual and intellectual leaders of the society. “They devoted their time to studying, teaching, performing sacrifices, and officiating religious services” (Nigosian 136).
Is the caste system of ancient India still prevalent today?
It is not limited to ancient India, it is still prevalent today. According to S. A Nigosian in World Religions, the caste system, “Is its (India) system of social stratification” (Nigosian 136). Jati and Varna are classifications of the traditional Indian Society.
How much money does the Indian government give to Brahmins?
The Indian government gives Rs 1,000 crores (Rs 10 billion) for salaries of imams in mosques and Rs 200 crores (Rs 2 billion) as Haj subsidies. But no such help is available to Brahmins and upper castes.
Are Brahmins living below the poverty line?
A study of the Brahmin community in a district in Andhra Pradesh (Brahmins of India by J Radhakrishna, published by Chugh Publications) reveals that today all purohits live below the poverty line. Eighty per cent of those surveyed stated that their poverty and traditional style of dress and hair (tuft) had made them the butt of ridicule.
Nonetheless, the traditional association between the Brahmin caste and priestly duties remains strong. Brahmins study the religious texts, such as the Vedas and the Puranas, and teach members of other castes about the holy books. They also perform temple ceremonies and officiate at weddings and other important occasions.
What are Brahmins not allowed to do today?
The Brahmin Caste Today. Activities that are forbidden to Brahmins according to the Manusmriti include making weapons, butchering animals, making or selling poisons, trapping wildlife, and other jobs associated with death. Brahmins are vegetarian, in keeping with Hindu beliefs in reincarnation.
Are Indian-Americans Brahmin or Dalits?
Private survey research indicates that 25\% of Indian-Americans are Brahmin, the highest caste in Hindu society — who comprise less than 5\% of people back at home. Virtually no Indian-Americans are Dalits, who in India are 15\% of the population, and today receive affirmative action due to centuries of oppression.
Can a Brahmin become a priest if he starts farming?
For example, a Brahmin who begins farming (not only as an absentee land-owner, but actually tilling the land himself) may be considered ritually contaminated, and can be barred from later entering the priesthood. Nonetheless, the traditional association between the Brahmin caste and priestly duties remains strong.
What is the difference between Brahmins and Brahmin varna?
Many members practice agriculture, while others hold white collar jobs. The Brahmin are allowed to follow any profession, but no one except a Brahmin can become a priest. Members of this Varna tend to be strict vegetarians. It is a socio-spiritual obligation to feed Brahmin at ceremonies. Brahmin men have more freedom then Brahmin women.
What is the difference between Brahmin and Kshatriya in Hinduism?
In this Hindu scripture, Brahmin originated from the mouth of Brahma, while Kshatriya originated from the arms. The two primary roles of the Kshatriya Varna were to govern the land and to wage war, which led to professions as rulers and soldiers.
What is the difference between a widower and a Brahmin woman?
Widows are not allowed to remarry whereas widowers are allowed to. Although Brahmin women are second to men, they do hold a higher level of education than other women in Indian society. Overall Brahmins hold a high status in Hindu society, and are considered to be smart and influential.