The Vaishyas are the third-lowest caste in the modern-day Indian caste system. They were historically defined as the “engine” of the caste system and traditionally occupy merchant and trader roles in society.
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Vaishya Term Timeline in Caste
The timeline below shows where the term Vaishya appears in Caste. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Pillar Number One: Divine Will and the Laws of Nature
...the Brahmin, the highest caste, from his mouth; the Kshatriya (warriors) from his arms; the Vaishya (merchants and traders) from his thighs, and the Shudra (servants) from his feet. The Untouchables...
(full context)
