The Tenability of the Varna By Birth Concept

[Guest guest]

Dear Bhagavatas,

 

I am writing in regards an important issue that was brought up during the

Question and Answer segment following Sri. S.M.S. Chari's telephone lecture.

 

Some thoughts:

 

Not only is the notion of Varna abstract, it also completely transcends the

realm of sensual objects. Varna is determined by properties of matter, which are

not within the realm of the senses; as such, it is not possible to study the

varna by birth concept by observing or manipulating these properties. In other

words, it is not possible to adopt an empirical approach to either support or

contest the notion. In matters beyond the realm of senses, perception is

useless and logic cannot provide conclusive results, as it is qualified by

premises; thus, either S'Astra or conscience takes precedence.

 

Therefore, if one is unable to relate to the notion he or she should forget it

and move on. Trying to convince oneself or others that the varna by birth

concept is untenable is futile since the concept is not refutable (by empirical

or logical methods.)

 

Please note:

 

This post only tries to address the issue of tenability of the notion of caste

by birth. Discussion of the implications of cast in a comprehensive manner is

beyond my scope. (All I know is, according to the Vedic Paradigm, there is a

probabilistic (as opposed to deterministic) relationship between cast and

predisposition towards spirituality.)

 

ramanuja dasan,

Venkat