Varnashramadharma

Question 1

How are duties defined?

Answer 1

according to class (varna) and stage of life (ashrama)

Question 2

Why does dharma need to be followed?

Answer 2

universe ordered - acting against given role - threaten cosmic order

Question 3

What what is the dharma of Shudras (workers)?

Answer 3

1) render service
2) take pride in work + loyal
3) follow general moral principles
4) marry (compulsory)

Question 4

What is the dharma of Vaishyas (farmers, merchants and business people)?

Answer 4

1) protect animals
2) create wealth and prosperity
3) produce for workers
4) trade ethically
5) give taxes to Kshatriya (ruling class)

Question 5

What is the dharma f the Kshatriyas (warriors, police, administrators)?

Answer 5

1) protect citizens from harm
2) ensure others perform dharma
3) first into battle + never surrender
4) keep word
5) accept all challenges
6) develop noble qualities
7) levy taxes from Vaishyas + never accept charity
8) take advice from Brahmin
9) know scriptures
10) deal strongly with crisis + lawlessness
11) ensure an heir

Question 6

What is the dharma of the brahmin (priests, teachers, intellectuals)?

Answer 6

1) study + teach Vedas
2) perform sacrifices + religious ceremonies
3) teach others how to perform rituals
4) accept and give charity
5) offer guidance
6) provide medical care free of charge
7) never accept paid employment
8) develop ideal qualities - honesty, integrity, cleanliness, purity, knowledge + wisdom

Question 7

Bhagavad Gita 18:47 quote?

Answer 7

‘One’s righteous duty imperfectly done is better than another’s duty done perfectly…’