Question
Why is Ravan considered a Rakshasa?
Answer
In the famous dialogue between Yama (in form of Yaksha) and King Yudhishthira there is mention about the eligibility to be a a brahmin. The verse goes as follows(Question no-31):
The Yaksha asked,—“By what, O king, birth, behaviour, study, or learning both a person become a Brahmana? Tell us with certitude!”
Yudhishthira answered,-“Listen, O Yaksha! It is neither birth, nor study, nor learning, that is the cause of Brahmanahood, without doubt, it is behaviour that constitutes it. One’s behaviour should always be well-guarded, especially by a Brahmana. He who maintains his conduct unimpaired, is never impaired himself. Professors and pupils, in fact, all who study the scriptures, if addicted to wicked habits, are to be regarded as illiterate wretches. He only is learned who performes his religious duties. Even if he has studied the four Vedas is to be regarded as a wicked wretch scarcely distinguishable from a Sudra if his conduct be not correct. He only who performes the Agnihotra and has his senses under control, is called a Brahmana!”
Thus it is quiet evident that caste is just a function of a character. Incase of Ravana he failed to keep his sense under control and never behaved like a Brahmana.Thus Ravana doesn't inhert the caste of his father.
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