Varnasrama

Chapter 17, 18

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.