Question
Are we encouraged to become a brahmin?
Answer
Based on the nature a person has acquired from material modes; he can be classified to be belonging to one of the varnas.
There are 4 varnas Viz. Brahmin,Kshatriya,Vaishya and Shudra. The predominating modes that drive these four classes are:
- Brahmin-Mode of Goodness
- Kshatriya-Mode of passion
- Vaishya -mix of passion and Ignorance
- Shudra-mode of Ignorance
This is mentioned in 18th Chapter of Gita.
Peacefulness, self-control, austerity, purity, tolerance, honesty, knowledge, wisdom and religiousness – these are the natural qualities by which the brāhmaṇas work.
Brāhmaṇas, kṣatriyas, vaiśyas and śūdras are distinguished by the qualities born of their own natures in accordance with the material modes, O chastiser of the enemy.
Now in 3rd Chapter Krishna says
Even a man of knowledge acts according to his own nature, for everyone follows the nature he has acquired from the three modes. What can repression accomplish?
It is far better to discharge one’s prescribed duties, even though faultily, than another’s duties perfectly. Destruction in the course of performing one’s own duty is better than engaging in another’s duties, for to follow another’s path is dangerous.
So here Krishna is urging Arjuna to execute his duty of Kshatriya. Because its nature of Kashtriya to fight for right cause.
Krishna does not ask Arjuna to change his position of being a Kshatriya. So God Himself is not supporting 'Becoming someone that you are not' .
If someone has acquired Brahminical qualities he has to develop and enhance such qualities and engage them in service of God.
It is not encouraged to become a Brahmin if someone is not. Same thing goes for all other Varnas(Classes).
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