Question

What do early texts such as the Ṛig Veda, Arthaśhāstra, and the Mahābhārata reveal about social life?

Answer 1

1. The Ṛig Veda: The Ṛig Veda shows that people lived in families, clans and tribes. It mentions different occupations and suggests that members of the same family could follow different professions, such as poets, physicians and carpenters.
2. The Arthaśhāstra: The Arthaśhāstra gives information about different social and occupational groups, agriculture, trade, crafts and economic activities. It shows that society had become more organised and that people performed different roles in the economy.
3. The Mahābhārata: The Mahābhārata provides insights into family relationships, social duties, occupations and moral values. It highlights the importance of dharma, duties and responsibilities in social life.