1. Religion in India Hinduism and the Caste System

2. Caste System The caste system is a social system in India in which society is divided into groups based on perceived purity in Hinduism.

3. 4 Main Castes People are born into their caste and cannot “move up or down” to different castes in this lifetime. Must do your dharma to earn good karma.

4. Caste System Hierarchy There are 5 castes in the hierarchy. Less people are at the top and more are at the bottom. Brahmin Kshatriya Vaishya Sudra Untouchables

5. Brahmin Priests and professionals Assigned studying and teaching others the Vedas (Hindu holy books)

6. Kshatriya Politicians, administrators, military Commanded to serve and protect

7. Vaishya Merchants and peasant-farmers Assigned to trade and to cultivate the land

8. Sudra Carpenters, plumbers, tailors, blacksmiths, artisans Individuals with physical strength and special skills that provide services for others

9. Untouchables Do the dirtiest jobs in society and serve all others