Man Is Unpredictable – In Gita Verse 18.44 Farming, cow protection and business are the natural work for the vaiśyas, and for the śūdras there is labour and service to others.
In Bhagavad Gita Verse 18.44, it is stated that farming, cow protection, and business are the natural activities for the Vaishyas, while labour and service to others are the natural duties of the Shudras. This verse provides a framework for understanding the division of labour and responsibilities within the varna system, which is foundational to the socio-economic structure described in the text.
If individuals were categorised strictly according to their inherent qualities (gunas), there would ostensibly be only three varnas: Brahmin, Kshatriya, and Shudra. However, the existence of the Vaishya varna indicates that people are not divided perfectly along these lines. The Vaishya varna represents a market for all varnas, encompassing individuals who fall between the other three varnas. This varna acts as a crossroads, facilitating the movement of individuals from one varna to another based on their evolving qualities.
The Vaishya varna is thus the largest and most diverse. If life adhered strictly to mathematical divisions, the Vaishya varna would not exist, leaving only the three primary varnas. The Shudras are characterised by tamas (inertia and ignorance), the Kshatriyas by rajas (energy and action), and the Brahmins by sattva (goodness and purity). However, real life does not conform to these neat divisions, resulting in the prevalence of the Vaishya varna.
In practice, individuals often exhibit a mix of qualities. A Brahmin engaged in business, whether it be in religious services or as a priest, effectively operates as a Vaishya. Similarly, a Shudra providing services such as shoe-making or massage is also engaging in business activities. Even Kshatriyas, who are traditionally warriors, may be seen as selling their lives for a salary, thus aligning with the Vaishya varna.
The idealised varna system is not strictly adhered to in real life, where the boundaries between varnas are fluid. This fluidity is essential for the dynamic nature of society, allowing for the movement of individuals between varnas based on their actions and qualities, rather than their birth. Birth provides only the potential for certain qualities; it does not determine one’s varna.
For example, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, born in a Shudra family, became one of India’s foremost legal scholars and the principal architect of the Indian Constitution. His achievements exemplify that one’s birth does not confine one to a particular varna. The tradition holds that everyone is born with tamas and must rise above it through their actions and qualities.
The natural activities of a Vaishya include farming, cow rearing, and business, conducted with truth and honesty. Historically, Vaishyas were expected to engage in business ethically, prioritising policy and righteousness over mere profit. The term “Seth,” derived from “Shrestha” (excellent), was a title of respect for Vaishyas who mastered the art of conducting business truthfully.
The Shudras, whose natural duty is service, should perform their tasks with a sense of service. Despite their inherent laziness and selfishness, they should strive to serve sincerely. However, the modern manifestation of Shudras, often referred to as the proletariat, is characterised by anger and a desire to assert dominance rather than serve.
Today, the Vaishya varna has become predominant, with the other varnas losing their distinct identities. This has led to a distorted and unhealthy societal structure that requires intensive correction.
If God were to provide a comprehensive blueprint of your life from birth, indicating that you are destined to be a guitarist, your life would become mechanical. Predictability is a characteristic of machines, not humans. Humans are inherently unpredictable, presenting a myriad of possibilities and opportunities. At every moment, multiple doors open with numerous alternatives, leaving you to choose and navigate your path. Cherishing your life empowers you to discover your unique journey.
Krishna emphasises that each person has a specific destiny and purpose. Work is essential for personal transformation, fostering a well-rounded and integrated personality. It is crucial to infuse creativity into all endeavours, allowing individuals to find their unique paths. Pursuing money or fame can stifle creativity, which should be driven by intrinsic motivation and the joy of the activity.
Creative individuals often face delayed recognition, as their contributions may not be immediately appreciated. Historical figures like Jesus Christ were recognized posthumously. True creativity thrives on fulfilment from the act itself, not external validation. Humans, as the pinnacle of existence, must explore their creative potential, regardless of societal labels. Krishna advocates for continuous seeking until one finds their true path.
The varna system, as described in the Bhagavad Gita, provides a framework for understanding the natural duties and activities of individuals based on their qualities. However, real life is more complex, with fluid boundaries between varnas. Each person must seek their unique path and fulfil their destiny through creative and purposeful work.
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