CASTE SYSTEM
Caste, or the family of birth, is the hub of the Hindu society.
In Hindu society Brahmin is the highest form of human creatures and Dalits (Chamaars and Chuhraas, whom Brahmins call ‘untouchabales’) are the lowest form of human beings.
In Sikhism, it is strictly forbidden to differentiate anyone according to one’s family of birth; but, in practice, most if the Sikhs don’t obey this command of the Guru; hence they have no right to claim themselves as real Sikhs. This is against fundamental principles of Sikhism.
This, however, does not mean that Sikhism denies existence and/or significance of genetical traits of family of birth. (Marrying only in one’s own caste, class, clan, however, is scientifically more workable). There are several quotations in Gurbaani which depict the Guru’s views about rejection of caste hierarchy:
Useless is the (pride of) caste and useless is the (pride of) name.
All creatures are under same shade (i.e. umbrella). (Guru Granth Sahib, p. 83)
Those who forget Master are mean.
Know only light (i.e. Divine Light) and not the caste,
As caste is not the consideration hereafter. (Guru Granth Sahib, p.349)
None should take pride in caste.
Brahmin is one who meditates upon Brahm (i.e. God).
O Idiot! Foolish, do not take pride in caste,
So many evil thoughts are products of this ego.
Everyone talks of four categories (of so-called caste hierarchy),
When everyone is born of the seed of the same God;
One clay is used for (creation of) the entire world.
The potter models pots in different ways. (Guru Granth Sahib, p.1128)
I tell you, none will ask about birth or caste in the house of the True.
(There,) the caste, the honour is one’s actions. (Guru Granth Sahib, p.1330)
(Dr Harjinder Singh Dilgeer)