basava's

Updated: May 1, 2025

But in social matters it is agreed by all observers that they show a tendency to reintroduce caste and to minimize the differences separating them from more orthodox sects. According to Basava's teaching all members of the community both men and women are equal.

Sir Charles Eliot - Hinduism and Buddhism, An Historical Sketch, Vol. 2

Syrian Christianity also might have helped to familiarize the Lingâyats with the idea of a god not to be represented by images or propitiated by sacrifices, but there is no proof that it was prevalent in the part of the Deccan where they first appeared. The Lingâyats spread rapidly after Basava's death. They still number about two millions and are to be found in most Kanarese-speaking districts.

Sir Charles Eliot - Hinduism and Buddhism, An Historical Sketch, Vol. 2