A History of Indian Literature v1.c8.s10.8

v1.c8.s10.8

*Sūtra 4:* (There are) four castes: Brahmans, Kṣatriyas, Vaiśyas and Śūdras. *Sūtra 5:* Of these the preceding one (is) always better, according to birth (than every succeeding one). *Sūtra 6:* For (them who are) not Śūdras and have not committed bad actions, (is prescribed:) initiation as a pupil, Veda-study, fire-laying; and (these sacred) acts (are) productive (in this world and the next). *Sūtra 7:* Obedience towards the other castes (is the duty) of the Śūdras. *Sūtra 8:* With each preceding caste which he serves the bliss is greater (*i.e.* the higher the caste which a Śūdra serves, the greater is the bliss which shall fall to his share in the next world).