Caste System in Ancient India Flashcards

Caste System in Ancient India

• Social hierarchy in Hinduism with no social mobility, divided into specific classes (varnas).
• Five main classes:
  • Brahmins (priests)
  • Kshatriyas (warriors and aristocrats)
  • Vaisyas (merchants)
  • Sudras (unskilled workers)
  • Untouchables (not officially recognized)
• Rigid system based on birth, determining job, friends, and marriage.

Concepts in Hinduism and Buddhism

• Karma: Principle of cause and effect of actions influencing one's reincarnation.
• Reincarnation: Continuous rebirth of the soul in different forms until perfect understanding is achieved.
• Dharma: Fulfillment of one's social and religious duties in Hinduism; also a key concept in Buddhism.

Sacred Texts and Language

• Vedas: Earliest sacred texts of Hinduism written in Sanskrit, serving as spiritual knowledge.
• Sanskrit: The classical language of ancient India, used in religious and literary texts.

Key Historical Figures and Concepts

• Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha): Founded Buddhism by seeking enlightenment and advocating for the Middle Way.
• Nirvana: State of release from desire and suffering, signifying union with the universe in Buddhism.
• Enlightenment: Attainment of spiritual insight and wisdom; ultimate goal for Buddhists.

Ancient Civilizations

• Mohenjo-Daro: Well-organized ancient city located along the Indus River, showcasing advanced urban planning.
• Harappan Civilization: Flourished near the Indus River Valley around 2300 BC, known for plumbing and sanitation systems.

Geographic Context

• Subcontinent: Large landmass distinct from others, exemplified by India.
• Himalayan Mountain Range: Natural barrier isolating India from Asia, significantly influencing culture and climate.
• Indus River: Major river with unpredictable flooding, surrounded by fertile lands; central to early Indian civilizations.

Social Stratification

• Untouchables: Lowest tier of society, often relegated to degrading jobs and considered outside the caste system; faced severe discrimination.
• Brahmins: Highest caste, consisting of priests and scholars, playing a crucial role in religious rituals and education.

Practices and Beliefs

• Fasting: Religious practice of abstaining from food or drink to attain spiritual discipline.
• Meditation: Focused mental practice for achieving inner peace and spiritual awareness.

Explore the intricacies of the Caste System in ancient India through these flashcards. Learn about the different varnas and how they shaped social structure, professions, and daily life in Hindu society. Perfect for students seeking to understand this complex system of stratification.