BHAGAVAD GITA - THE COMPLETE YOGA SASTRA - CH.1.SLOKAS.42-43 - EFFECTS OF UNACCEPTABLE INTERCASTE MIX

BHAGAVAD GITA

(THE COMPLETE YOGA SASTRA)

 

CHAPTER.1.VERSE.42

Sankaro Narakaayaiva Kulaghnaanaam Kulasya Cha |

Pathanthi Pitaro hyeshaam lupta pindodhaka kriyaah   ||

Arjuna continues further, expressing his anguish to Lord Krishna :

 

Meaning :

 

"Varna sankara or unacceptable inter-caste mix finally results in Hell for the whole family and the family destroyers both; this is because, their dead ancestors will be deprived of the Pinda Pradaana, or the offerings needed to be made to them on holy occasions."

As we saw in previous Blog posts, The rules for Varna-sankara are not absolute separation of castes. There were extensive inter-caste marriages, but their methods and nature are fixed by Dharma sastras. People considered that those who indulged in unacceptable inter-caste Mix usually do not care for Dharma or for the routines prescribed in marriages and Post marriage dharmas.

 

Pinda Pradaana for dead ancestors is the annual Shraaddh ceremony, for remembering and calling the dead ancestors back from their Pitrulokas and offering them food which is acceptable as per Dhrma Sastras.  This satisfies their need for Food and other essentials in those Lokas and ensures their Blessings for continuance of their family lineage. Else, it is believed that the family lineage will end with no sons born to the family members who indulge in unacceptable intercaste mix.

CHAPTER.1.VERSE.43

Doshairethaih Kulaghnaanaam  Varnasankarakaarakaih  |

Utsaadyante Jaatidharmaah Kuladharmaascha Saasvataah   ||  

Meaning :

"By evil deed these family destroyers who cause unacceptable inter-caste mix, get themsleves destroyed; the righteous conduct of each caste and of each family are however eternal Dharmas"

By their unacceptable conduct, the family destroyers destroy themselves eventually. But, the prescribed Family and Kula dharmas or the prescribed righteous conduct for each individual within his clan is always eternal and unchanging.

We may or may not agree with these views of Arjuna, today - but, these were scientific views as People understood at that time - and they stood them well.

.....Will Continue.