In religious communities, as in society in general, there are the principles, and then there is actual practice.
Note, for example, wise gurus railing against caste discrimination in their own times, only for modern followers of their tradition to promulgate ideas of belonging and unbelonging based on caste status.
It’s no wonder many reject these traditions wholesale. But perhaps they would be surprised if they delved into the teachings of their wise ones. Much of it bears no relation to the practices of the people at all.
Last modified: 25 July 2022
