Question 2 In this unit, you learned about an ancient Hindu
text called the Rig Veda. The Rig Veda includes a creation myth. In this
story, the gods divide a being named Purusha to create life. The story includes a metaphor that later served as the basis
of the caste system.
Read this section from the Rig Veda:
When they divided Purusha how many portions did they make?
What do they call his mouth, his arms? What do they call his thighs and feet?
The Brahman was his mouth, of both his arms was the Rajanya made.
His thighs became the Vaishya, from his feet the Shudra was produced.
Think about what you've learned about varnas and the caste system in the unit. Explain how each respective body part is
used as a metaphor for the different castes. Put your answers in the following chart.

Caste

Representation

Explanation

Brahmin (priests)
mouth

Kshatriya (warriors)
arms

Vaishya (artisans, farmers, merchants) thighs

Shudra (servants)
feet