What is the word 'caste' a gloss for?

The term 'caste' is often used as a gloss for "varna" in the context of Indian society and its social stratification. Varna refers to the four primary categories of social classification in Hindu society: Brahmins (priests and teachers), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (traders and agriculturists), and Shudras (laborers and service providers). This classification reflects a broad system of social organization based on occupation and duties, which is central to the understanding of Hindu social structure.

While "jati" also relates to the concept of caste, as it refers to the various sub-groups within the broader varna categories, the term 'caste' is more accurately aligned with "varna" because it captures the overarching framework of these social divisions. The distinction is essential; varna provides the foundational categories, while jati represents the more localized, often endogamous groups that emerge from these broader classifications.

As for "asrama," it refers to the stages of life in Hindu philosophy and is not directly related to the classification of social groups. "Mahabharata" is an ancient Indian epic that features various narratives, including philosophical discussions of ethics and duty but does not pertain to