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Chhattisgarh P.C.S. Prelims 2014

Vedic Social Structure

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The 'Purush Sukta' related to Varna System is originally found in-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept The Purusha Sukta is the primary mythological justification for the social stratification of ancient Indian society into four classes.

Explanation The hymn is found in the 10th Mandala (Hymn 90) of the Rig Veda. It describes the sacrifice of the primordial being, 'Purusha', from whose body parts the four Varnas emerged.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: It is the *only* hymn in the entire Rig Veda that mentions all four Varnas by name (Brahmana, Rajanya/Kshatriya, Vaishya, Shudra).
Logic 2: Because it is in the 10th Mandala, historians consider it a later addition to the original Vedic core, reflecting a society becoming more sedentary and stratified.

Active Recall

Question

Which body parts are associated with the four Varnas in the Purusha Sukta?

Answer

Brahmins came from the mouth, Kshatriyas from the arms, Vaishyas from the thighs, and Shudras from the feet of the Purusha.

Core Insight

The Purusha Sukta effectively integrated social hierarchy into a cosmic religious framework, making the Varna system appear as an organic and divine part of the universe's creation.

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