Social Responsibility in Sanatan Dharm (Hinduism) (Four-fold Social Class System and Rejection of Untouchability)

Abstract

Hinduism (Sanatan Dharm) provides social life guidance. The four main Varṇs (classes) i.e., Brahman,Khashtri, Vaish, and Shudr suggest an ethics for all the main human activities in society. But the Brahmans often misconstrued the true meaning of this class system and considered them superior in society. They oppressed the Shudras caused them much suffering. Many Hindu thinkers and writers have conceded these historical facts. They have tried to remind Hindus of their true values and social responsibility. Modern Hindu thinkers have been inspired by the classics of Sanatan Dharm, such as the Bhagavad Gita and the Ramayan. These classics articulate the social values of human beings, according to Sanatan Dharm. The Dharm never lets anybody down based on Varn, caste, creed, blood,or profession. Shrila Prabhupada, Swami Vivekanand, Dr. Ambedkar all are modern authors whose thinking has developed these values into a social philosophy.