2. Kshatriya, or warrior caste.
4. Sudra, or servant caste.
A fifth class, called Pariahs, are of no caste, and are practically outside the law.
The first three upper classes or castes are also called “twice-born” men, because they are supposed to be regenerated or “born in the Veda.”
So, generally, are the distinctions of caste recognized that Pope Gregory XV. found it advisable to publish a bull sanctioning caste regulations in the Christian churches of India.
The Hindus attach great importance to the marriage. It is regarded by them as one of the ten sankars, or sacraments, necessary for the regeneration of men of the twice-born classes, and the only sacrament for women and Sudras.
The Veda says: “A Brahmin immediately upon being born is produced a debtor in three obligations: to the holy saints for the practice of religious duties; to the gods for the performance of sacrifice; to his forefathers for offspring.”
Manu ordains that “after a man has read the Vedas in the form prescribed by law, has legally begotten a son and has performed sacrifices to the best of his power, he has paid his three debts and may then apply his heart to eternal bliss.”
The Hindus hold the marriage relation in such respect that the question of the validity of a marriage is rarely submitted to the courts for judicial determination.