What are the castes in Hinduism?

Answer by  tamkees (3203)

Hindus are born into castes that determine their social class. Brahmins are the middle men between the gods and humanity. Kyshatrias, the warrior class, provide protection and serve Brahmins. Vaishyas are the merchant and peasant class. Shudras are laborers who serve the three higher castes. Chandalas are considered the untouchables.

Answer by  Anita63 (22)

Castes are based mainly on occupation. There are Brahmins (priests), Kshatriyas (warrior class), Vaishuas (merchant and peasant clsses), Shudras (labor class), and Chandalas (impure ones).

Answer by  tamarawilhite (17883)

Brahmins are the priests, the highest caste. Dalits are the untouchables, so low on the caste system that it was considered polluting to even touch one.

Answer by  walter80 (409)

The castes is Hinduism are the structure on which the society is based. It is a hierarchy or system of stratification which excludes mobility between the classes. Although there are now laws in place which are to prevent discrimination it is still part of the social structure especially in rural areas.

Answer by  Luciano (80)

It depends on the region of India you are talking about. Even Christians there are divided into castes, so there is no fixed number. For example just in New Delhi there are 48 registered castes

Answer by  u (14)

Castes are social classes in India. If you think of it like a pyramid, it is not unlike Western society in terms of income. The lowest rank, the untouchables, are the most common, but they believe that through good or bad deeds you will either rise or fall in status.