You know
that the Hindus are divided into the Brahmans, or the priestly
caste, which is the highest; next the Kshatriyas, or the warrior and
statesman caste; next the Vaishyas, or the herdsman and farmer caste;
lastly, the Sudras, or the menial caste. Now, once upon a time the two
youths Vasettha and Bharadvaja had a discussion as to what constitutes
a Brahman. Thus, Vasettha and Bharadvaja went to the place where
Bhagava was, and having approached him were well pleased with him; and
having finished a pleasing and complimentary conversation, they sat
down on one side. Vasettha, who sat down on one side, addressed Buddha
in verse: ...
"3. O Gotama! we have a controversy regarding [the distinctions
of] birth. Thus know, O wise one! the point of difference
between us: Bharadvaja says that a Brahman is such by reason
of his birth.
"4. But I affirm that he is such by reason of his conduct....
"7. Bhagava replied: ...
"53. I call him alone a Brahman who is fearless, eminent,
heroic, a great sage, a conqueror, freed from attachments--one
who has bathed in the waters of wisdom, and is a Buddha.
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