Why do you think the Brahmanas quoted this verse frequently?
The Brahmanas quoted this verse frequently to assert that the varna order was of divine origin. By citing the Purusha sukta from the Rigveda, they sought to legitimise the social hierarchy by claiming that the four social categories emanated from the body of the primeval man, Purusha.
This was one of the key strategies evolved by the Brahmanas to enforce social norms and persuade people that their status was determined by birth. The divine justification made the social order appear natural and unquestionable, especially when faced with challenges from urban interactions where people questioned earlier beliefs and practices.
Explanation
The textbook explains that Brahmanas evolved strategies to enforce varna norms. One strategy was asserting the divine origin of the varna order. The Purusha sukta verse from the Rigveda was cited to justify this claim - describing how Brahmanas came from the mouth, Kshatriyas from arms, Vaishyas from thighs, and Shudras from feet of Purusha. This divine sanction helped them persuade people that social status was birth-based and legitimize the hierarchical social order, particularly when urban interactions led to questioning of traditional beliefs.
Solution Steps
Step 1: Identify the purpose - to assert divine origin of varna order
Step 2: Explain how the verse legitimised social hierarchy
Step 3: Connect to the broader strategy of enforcing norms and persuading people about birth-based status