Consider the following statements: 1. The Dharmasutras and Dhannashas...
The correct answer is option 'A' - 1 only.
Explanation:
The Dharmasutras and Dhannashastras were ancient texts in Hinduism that contained rules and guidelines for various aspects of society, including occupation and social status. These texts outlined the duties and responsibilities of individuals belonging to different varnas or social classes.
1. The Dharmasutras and Dhannashastras contained rules about the ideal occupations of the four varnas:
• The varna system, which formed the basis of the social structure in ancient India, divided society into four main varnas - Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), and Shudras (laborers and servants).
• These texts prescribed specific occupations for individuals belonging to each varna, based on their inherent qualities and abilities. For example, Brahmins were expected to study and teach the Vedas, Kshatriyas were meant to protect the society and rule, Vaishyas were expected to engage in agriculture, trade, and animal husbandry, and Shudras were assigned menial tasks.
• The Dharmasutras and Dhannashastras provided detailed instructions on the duties, rituals, and conduct of individuals belonging to each varna. They emphasized the importance of performing one's prescribed occupation diligently and without seeking to change or move to a different varna.
2. Manusmriti held that no one could engage in agriculture and pastoralism apart from Kshatriyas:
• Manusmriti, also known as the Laws of Manu, is another ancient Hindu legal text that outlines social, moral, and legal principles. It was traditionally attributed to the sage Manu.
• While Manusmriti does mention the occupations of the different varnas, it does not explicitly state that only Kshatriyas can engage in agriculture and pastoralism. It does prescribe specific duties for each varna, but it does not restrict certain occupations to a particular varna.
In conclusion, statement 1 is correct as the Dharmasutras and Dhannashastras did contain rules about the ideal occupations of the four varnas. However, statement 2 is incorrect as Manusmriti does not hold that only Kshatriyas can engage in agriculture and pastoralism.
Consider the following statements: 1. The Dharmasutras and Dhannashas...
- This division became the basis for caste discrimination later. Brahmanas were awarded the highest occupations, whereas the Shudras with menial jobs were socially and economically exploitative.
- Kshatriyas were to engage in warfare, protect people and administer justice, study the Vedas, get sacrifices performed, and make gifts.
- The Vaishyas were expected to engage in agriculture, pastoralism and trade.