# Varnasrama

Satya-yuga was populated with one class of spotless individuals, known as *hamsa*, but after the cosmic cycle entered Treta-yuga, the system of Varnasrama was introduced. Each division of occupation (*varna*) and order of life (*asrama*) has its unique role and responsibility, and specific character traits which identify it. In summary, Krishna concluded: *“The main religious duties of a* sannyasi *are equanimity and nonviolence, whereas for the* vanaprastha *austerity and philosophical understanding of the difference between the body and soul are prominent. The main duties of a householder are to give shelter to all living entities and perform sacrifices, and the* brahmacari *is mainly engaged in serving the spiritual master.”* 

Beyond all such divisions is the *paramahamsa*, who has purified the heart and is intimately connected with the Lord.