Shudras and Sanskrit: A Small Note
Shudras and Sanskrit The Shudra is prohibited from Sanskrit, however, I will through my analysis show that this prohibition is much more nuanced that it meets the eye. Remember that we want a blend of liberalism and conservatism when analysing the scripture. The first source of the prohibition of Sanskrit for Shudras comes from the Skanda Purana 7.28.70: " 70. He should not have a tuft of hair on the head ṇor should he wear the sacred thread. He should not even utter Saṃskṛta language. He should not read a Vedic passage nor should he resort to Trairātra (fast for three nights). " However, we should analyse this passage in full: " 54. If a Brāhmaṇa pilgrim does not beg for alms despite being in difficulties, if he is truthful and resolute in meditation, he renders service to the Tīrtha itself. 55. Puṣkara in Kṛta Yuga , Naimiṣa in Tretā Yuga , Kurukṣetra in Dvāpara and Prābhāsika in Kali Yuga...