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443
SHRIMAD BHAGVAD GITA-A JAIN PERSPECTIVE
according to the mental make up and inborn characteristics. They are Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Shudras. Verses 41 to 44 describe their characteristics. It is important to note that this classfication is not based on birth but is based on mental make up of these individuals.
Jainism is a stout opponent of castes by birth as according to it social status must be decided on the basis of deeds (Krmas) done by persons. Uttaradhyayan Sutra says: "Kammunaa Bambhano hoi,
Kammunaa hoi Khattiyo,
Vaiso Kammunaa hoi,
Suddo hoi Kammunaa."
Meaning, "One becomes a Brahmin or a Kshatriya or a Vaishya or a Shudra according to his deeds". Even the untouchables have been recognized as some of the great saints in Jainism when the then prevailing social order considered a mere sight of an untouchable as
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