Civilised Humans

Chapter 11

Having heard about the exalted character of Prahlada, Maharaja Yuddhistira enquired about the gradual development towards such purity through adherence to the system of Varnasrama. Thus, Narada Muni described this system which the Lord Himself creates.

He began by outlining a list of thirty preliminary qualities that are expected of any civilised human being. Those who possess such character are fit candidates to participate in the system of Varnasrama, otherwise they will invariably cause a disturbance to society. He went on to describe the divisions of brahmana, ksatriya, vaisya and sudra. Each have specific qualities and strengths, and adhere to certain principles, though they may adjust the details of their activities according to time, place and circumstance. A crucial point to note is that one’s position is determined by their character and qualities, and not birth.

Narada then delineated the temperament and activities of a chaste wife.