Varna and Ashrama
Skandha VII, Chap. 11 to 15
Nârada related the story of Prahlâda to King Yudhisthira at the Rajasûya sacrifice. That story revealed the highest devotion that was possible for a Jiva to attain with the idea of separate existence. But separation also gives rise to the idea of difference. And as differences become established in society, duties and relations become manifold. Yudhisthira therefore appropriately asked Nârada about the Varnâsrama duties.
The general rules to be observed by all castes are first given, ethical, spiritual and devotional. The specific duties and indications of each caste are then given, much the same as given in Manu Sanhitâ, as also the duties of women. The following significant passage occurs at the end: —
“The indications of each caste are given above (e.g. restraint of the senses, contentment, &c., for Brâhmanas; courage, strength, &c., for Kshatriyas; reverence, energy, &c., for Vaishyas; and humanity, service &c., for Shudras). If however the indications of one caste are found in a man belonging to another caste, he is to be specified by the caste of his indications and not the caste of his birth.” VII — 35.
The commentary of Śridhara is explicit on this passage. This shews the liberality of the Bhâgavata Purâna. According to this Purâna, the divisions of caste at the present day, (for one must not forget that the Vaishnava movement belongs comparatively to a later period), are not to be determined by birth, but they are indicated by the virtues of each particular individual.
The duties of each Âsrama are next enumerated in detail. The enumeration follows the Smritis, with a word for Bhakti Yoga where necessary. Some very useful hints are given for a Grihasthâ, for which please refer to the original.
The paths called Pitriyâna and Devayâna are next described. Hints on Yoga and the recital of Pranava are also given.