Which of the following are prescribed as the duties of Vaishyas according to the Dharmashastras?
- 1. Studying the Vedas
- 2. Engaging in trade
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
1 only
2 only
Both 1 and 2
Neither 1 nor 2
Answer is Right!
Answer is Wrong!
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CAPF – 2020
– Brahmins: Studying and teaching the Vedas, performing sacrifices, giving and receiving gifts.
– Kshatriyas: Studying the Vedas (but not teaching), protecting the people, administering justice, performing sacrifices, engaging in warfare.
– Vaishyas: Studying the Vedas (though often less emphasized than for Brahmins/Kshatriyas), engaging in trade (vanijya), cattle rearing (pashupalya), and agriculture (krishi), performing sacrifices, lending money.
– Shudras: Serving the other three varnas, particularly Brahmins.
Let’s evaluate the statements regarding Vaishyas:
1. Studying the Vedas: While some texts mention that Vaishyas could study the Vedas, it was not considered a primary or universally obligatory duty in the same way it was for Brahmins. Some interpretations restrict deep Vedic study or teaching to Brahmins. However, the right to study was generally granted to the upper three varnas (dvijas – twice-born). So this is partially true but not the defining primary duty.
2. Engaging in trade: This is explicitly and consistently mentioned as a primary duty and occupation of Vaishyas in Dharmashastras.
Comparing the two, engaging in trade is the *most* prescribed and defining duty among the options for Vaishyas according to Dharmashastras. Often, studying Vedas for Vaishyas was limited compared to Brahmins. Considering the options and the typical emphasis in Dharmashastras, trade is the core duty listed.
*Correction*: Re-evaluating statement 1. Dharmashastras generally state that the three dvija varnas (Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya) have the right to Vedic study. For example, Manusmriti states that the Vaishya should study the Vedas, perform sacrifices, lend money, etc. So, studying the Vedas was indeed a prescribed duty for Vaishyas. Therefore, both statements are correct according to the Dharmashastras.
Let’s re-assess ID 26394 based on this correction.
1. Studying the Vedas: Yes, prescribed for all dvijas, including Vaishyas.
2. Engaging in trade: Yes, a primary occupation and duty.
Both statements are correct.
Revised Explanation for ID 26394:
1. Studying the Vedas: Dharmashastras explicitly state that Vaishyas, as members of the dvija varnas, have the right and duty to study the Vedas, although the emphasis and depth might differ compared to Brahmins. For instance, Manusmriti includes studying the Vedas as a duty of the Vaishya. So, this statement is correct.
2. Engaging in trade: Trade (vanijya), along with agriculture (krishi) and cattle rearing (pashupalya), were the primary and defining occupations and duties prescribed for the Vaishyas. So, this statement is correct.
Since both statements are correct according to the Dharmashastras, the correct option is C.