Sermon Illustrations

The caste system is a unique feature of the Hindu religion. The account of its origin is an interesting story. Brahma created Manu, the first man. From Manu came four different types of people, as the creator Brahma determined. From Manu’s head came the Brahmins, the best and most holy people. Out of Manu’s hands came the Kshatriyas, the rulers and warriors. The craftsmen came from his thighs and are called Vaisyas. The remainder of the people came from Manu’s feet and are known as Sudras. Therefore, the structure of the caste system is divinely inspired.

The caste system became more complicated as time went on, with literally thousands of subcastes coming into existence. Today the caste system is still an integral part of the social order of India, even though it has been outlawed by the Indian government.

Josh McDowell and Don Stewart, Understanding Non-Christian Religions, pp. 26-27