SrI:
SrImathE SatkOpAya nama:
SrImathE rAmAnujAya nama:
SrImath varavaramunayE nama:
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Addressing thuLasi amma’s Questions:
1. Why Society Focuses on jAthi (caste) instead of varNam: – Over time, societal focus shifted more towards jAthi (caste) due to regional and occupational distinctions. This shift was influenced by historical, social, and economic factors. While the original varNaSrama system aimed at broader classifications, the caste system became more rigid and localized.
2. Is Inter-Caste Marriage within the Same varNam a Sin? – According to SrIvaishNava principles and broader vedic traditions, marrying within the same varNam but across different sub-castes is not considered a sin. The key is maintaining the broader varNASrama classification and upholding dharmam. – Inter-caste marriages within the same varNam aligns with the principles of varNASrama dharmam as long as they respect and preserve the cultural and spiritual practices associated with that varNam.
3. Historical Existence of Caste System: – The caste system as we know it today did not exist in the same form during the vedic period. The focus was more on the varNASrama system, which classified individuals based on their birth and associated duties (which involves some nithya and naimithika karmAnushtAnams to be performed). – The rigid caste system evolved later due to various societal changes, moving away from the more flexible varNASrama system originally intended.
4. bhagavAn’s acceptance of Inter-Caste Marriages within the same varNam: – bhagavAn values devotion, sincerity, and adherence to dharmam above all else. Marriages that respect these principles, even if they are inter-caste within the same varNam, are acceptable in the eyes of bhagavAn. – It is important to communicate and engage with elders and one’s own AchAryar to address their concerns while ensuring that the core principles of dharmam are upheld.
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Addressing Vikram Swamy’s Observations:
1. Evolution of the Caste System: – The caste system’s refinement from the broader varNASrama system was a process influenced by socio-economic and historical contexts. This refinement aimed at maintaining specific roles and preserving traditions within communities. – While the varNASrama system was more fluid and broad, the caste system introduced more detailed classifications, sometimes leading to greater rigidity.
2. Marrying within Same Sect: – Historical practices of preferring marriages within the same sect (e.g., vadakalai and thenkalai within aiyangArs) were aimed at preserving specific religious practices and sampradhAyam. These practices were designed to ensure continuity and consistency in worship and community life.
3. Acknowledging Elders’ Wisdom: – Our elders’ decisions were guided by their deep understanding of dharmam and the socio-cultural context of their times. Their primary concern was the preservation of tradition and spiritual practices. – It is important to acknowledge their wisdom while also engaging in respectful dialogue to address contemporary challenges and societal changes.
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Additional point:
As SrIvaishNavas, it is important to base our understanding and practices on the teachings of our AchAryas and scriptures. While other perspectives like those of Jaggi Vasudev may provide insights, they are not rooted in the SrIvaishNava tradition. Our guidance should come from the teachings of AzhwArs, AchAryas, and the rich scriptural heritage of SrIvaishNavam, which emphasizes bhakthi, dharmam, and adherence to spiritual practices as said by our pUrvAchAryas.
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Conclusion:
In conclusion, while the societal focus has shifted to jAthi (caste), maintaining the broader varNASrama classifications remains essential. Inter-caste marriages within the same varNam are acceptable and align with the principles of varNASrama dharmam. Engaging in respectful dialogue with elders (especially one’s AchArya) and understanding the historical evolution of these practices can help navigate these complexities while honoring our traditions.
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adiyEn hopes this provides clarity and addresses the concerns raised.
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adiyEn rAmAnuja dhAsan.