Jaina Law Bhadrabahu Samhita

Author(s): J L Jaini
Publisher: ZZZ Unknown

Page 26

INTERITANCE AND PARTITION.
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distinguished from the caste-system, is recognised. The varna-system approaches the well-known classsystem of modern European societies more than the caste system. The rarna-system is elastic and would seem to be based on occupation more than on birth. Jaina Brâbmans, Kşatriyas and Vaisyas are recognised, and, in fact, they are found eren .to-day in Southern India. These Brahmans, etc., would probably make up the varnas, Brahman, etc., with the Hindus of the corresponding class. The castesystem is more identified with prohibitions as to interdining, etc., etc., and is certainly a later evolution or degeneration of the varna-system.
V. In procedure, a curious thing is noticeable. A widow, who has been cheated by a dishonest servant, c.g., must ask for reparation in a gentle way (Sloka 69). And then also the king is hardly to punish the cheat: the poor widow is to dismiss the rogue trith the consent of the king's officers. (Sloka 70.)
VI. A woman has a high, though naturally a subordinate, position in the family. In all important juristic acts she is the necessary co-actor with the husband, e.g., in matters of adoption (Slokas 39, 40, 42, 43.) She succeeds to the husband's property in preference to his mother (Sloka 74). She has