Ancient Indian Education: An Inquiry into its Origin, Development, and Ideals c4.192

c4.192

In ancient times probably most Brāhmans passed through the period of studentship, but they did not necessarily all become teachers, and in Manu certain other occupations are admitted as allowable for a Brāhman. With regard to Kshatriyas and Vaiśyas, who were also eligible for studentship, it is impossible to say how many of them really undertook the responsibilities of this position. As shown elsewhere, it is probable that for them the study of the Veda was something far less serious than for young Brāhmans, and the duties which they had to perform in life must have necessitated their receiving the education suitable for their special callings before they became adults. Probably they tended less and less to attend the Brāhmanic schools, and vocational schools, or at least domestic training, for their future duties in life were developed. The Śūdras were always shut out from Brāhmanic education, and they also developed their own system of training for the young craftsman. The popular system of education, which will be noticed in a later chapter, also grew up to meet a need for which the Brāhmanic schools made no provision.