Lecture Two: Introduction to the Original and Classical Formulations of the Asramas

Question 1

The asrama system is an attempt to reconcile…

Answer 1

the tensions of worldly prosperity and renunciation

Question 2

The three top varnas who are considered the twice born are

Answer 2

1. Brahmanas
2. Ksatriyas
3. Vaisyas

Question 3

Sanskrit for classes

Answer 3

Varnas

Question 4

Priests and Teachers are typically of what class?

Answer 4

Brahmanas

Question 5

Warriors are typically of what class?

Answer 5

Ksatriyas

Question 6

The merchant and agricultural class is typically a part of what class?

Answer 6

Vaisyas

Question 7

What type of occupation is typical of the sudras?

Answer 7

servants

Question 8

While a young male from one of the top three varnas completes a preliminary and temporary studentship, he is learning (2)

Answer 8

the Vedas and sanskrit, as well as the duties of each varna

Question 9

Sanskrit for modes of life

Answer 9

asrama

Question 10

Is studentship considered an asrama?

Answer 10

No

Question 11

At what age to boys complete their temporary studentship?

Answer 11

16-18, also when he decides on his asrama

Question 12

One who lives with guru for his life studying the vedas and serving gurus is of what asrama?

Answer 12

Permanent Studentship

Question 13

Do permanent students marry?

Answer 13

No, they are also celebate

Question 14

What does the householder do?

Answer 14

all the things that associate with worldly prosperity

Question 15

Which two asramas give up their belongings to pursue Moksa?

Answer 15

Forest dweller and renunciate

Question 16

The rituals that forest dwellers perform are for the sake of

Answer 16

broader prosperity, not his own

Question 17

Who is the renunciate?

Answer 17

One who abandons his social identity all together and is required to move away to where no one recognizes him.

Question 18

The classical formulation of the asramas involves what for asramas?

Answer 18

1. Student: Youth
2. Householder: Adult
3. Forest Dweller: Old Age
4. Renunciate: Old Age

Question 19

What makes the forest dweller and the renunciate different between the classical and original formulation of the asramas?

Answer 19

Forest dweller remains in connection with family and can bring his wife along. Considered pre-renunciation, where he will eventually be rid of all his previous life

Question 20

In the classical formulation, each asrama is seen as

Answer 20

temporary and obligatory

Question 21

What does the classical formulation of the asrama system solve?

Answer 21

the economic concerns of the original formulation where the forest dweller can see the son of his son be able to take over his duties as a citizen