The four varnas: caste system

useful resource and thanks commentor for clarifying

this kind of frame for recording info on a topic is always useful. </p> When considering the caste system, it is important to include some of the stories from Hindu sages which explain that that the different sections of society are part of the 'body of God' and this 'division of labour' was originally intended to show how all are equally important. You need all the different roles to have a strong and secure society.</p> This division of labour was not intended to be hereditory - but to reflect the qualities and attributes of an individual, The hereditory nature of the different casts just happened over time until it became intrenched.</p> Sages wishing to become enlightened are often given tests by God to see if they have successfully gone beyond this kind of separation -</p> and the Hindu political system has been fighting against the caste system since before India gained independence. Discrimination is illegal. although still widely practised.