essay / 2 pages

Hindu Traditions: Dharma, the Caste System and the Stages of Life in the Hindu Tradition

Write 4-6 paragraph (2 pages)

For this essay, you are invited to reflect upon the relationship between dharma, the caste system and the stages of life within the Hindu traditions

In the writing and organizing of this essay, you may wish to consider the following prompts:

1. What is dharma? Why is this concept important within the Hindu traditions?

2. Consider citing from sacred texts and/or epics within the Hindu tradition that teach/narrate the importance of dharma.

3. What is the caste system? How does the caste system relate to dharma?

4. What writings contain many teachings related to the caste system? For example, see Manu, and explain the importance of his writings. Define and explain the various roles within the caste system.

5. What are the stages of life within the Hindu traditions? Define and explain these stages of life. How do these stages of life relate to the concept of Dharma within the Hindu tradition?