| 13. The fourfold
caste has been created by Me according to the distribution of energies and
actions ; though I am the author thereof, know Me as nonagent and immutable.The
four castes (varmas, ht colours) have been created by Me, Isvara, according
to the distribution of energies (gunas) and of actions. The energies are
Sattva (goodness), Rajas (foulness, activity,) and Tamas (darkness). The
actions of a brahmana (priest), in whom Sattva predominates, are serenity
selfrestraint, austerity (xvi 42). The actions of a kshatriya (warrior),
in whom Rajas predominates and Sattva is subordinate to Rajas, are prowess,
daring, (xvi 43). The actions of a vaisya (merchant), in whom Rajas predominates
and Tamas is subordinate to Rajas, are agriculture, etc. (xvi. 44)· The
action of a sudra (servant) in whom Tamas predominates and Rajas is subordinate
to Tamas, is only servitude. Thus have been created the four castes according
to the distribution of energies and actions. This fourfold caste does not
exist in other worlds. Hence the imitation in this world of man. (iv.12).
(Objection):oh ! then Thou art the author of the act of creating the four
castes, and as such Thou art bound by its effect ; wherefore Thou art not
the eternal Lord nor the eternally unbound Answer ;Though I am the author
of this act when viewed from the standpoint of Maya, still know thou that
I am in reality no agent and therefore not subject to samsara. Action without
attachment does not bind the soul. Since I am not in reality the author
of those actions, of which you think Me to be the author, |
