*SKANDHA VII, CHAP. 11 TO 15.*
Narada related the story of Prahlada to King Yudhisthira at the Rajasuya
sacrifice. That story revealed the highest devotion that was possible
for a Jiva to attain with the idea of separate existence. But separation
also gives rise to the idea of difference. And as differences become
established in society, duties and relations become manifold.
Yudhisthira therefore appropriately asked Narada about the Varnasrama
duties.
The general rules to be observed by all castes are first given, ethical,
spiritual and devotional. The specific duties and indications of each
caste are then given, much the same as given in Manu Sanhita, as also
the duties of women. The following significant passage occurs at the
end: --
"The indications of each caste are given above (e.g. restraint of the
senses, contentment, &c., for Brahmanas; courage, strength, &c., for
Kshatriyas; reverence, energy, &c., for Vaishyas; and humanity, service
&c., for Shudras). If however the indications of one caste are found in
a man belonging to another caste, he is to be specified by the caste of
his indications and not the caste of his birth." VII -- 35.
The commentary of Sridhara is explicit on this passage. This shews the
liberality of the Bhagavata Purana. According to this Purana, the
divisions of caste at the present day, (for one must not forget that the
Vaishnava movement belongs comparatively to a later period), are not to
be determined by birth, but they are indicated by the virtues of each
particular individual.
The duties of each Asrama are next enumerated in detail. The enumeration
follows the Smritis, with a word for Bhakti Yoga where necessary. Some
very useful hints are given for a Grihastha, for which please refer to
the original.
The paths called Pitriyana and Devayana are next described. Hints on
Yoga and the recital of Pranava are also given.