What is Gotra?
Q: What is Gotra?
A: Gotra is a clan in Hindu society, referring to people who are descended from a common male ancestor through an unbroken male line.
Q: What did Pāṇini write about Gotra?
A: Pāṇini wrote in the 4th century that Gotra are the descendants of a sage, "beginning with the son's son."
Q: Who are the seven sages according to the Brihadaranyaka Upanisad?
A: The seven sages according to the Brihadaranyaka Upanisad are Gautama and Bharadvāja, Viśvāmitra and Jamadagni, Vashishtha and Kaśhyapa, and Atri.
Q: What is the significance of the seven sages in relation to Gotra?
A: The descendants of the seven sages are said to be the primary Gotras in Hindu society.
Q: What are the other descendants of sages called in relation to Gotra?
A: Descendants of other sages are called gotrâvayava in relation to Gotra.
Q: How can a person trace their family lineage through Gotra?
A: A person can trace their family lineage through Gotra by saying "I am (name of sage)-gotra," indicating their descent from that sage through an unbroken male line.
Q: How does the concept of Gotra apply to Hindu society?
A: The concept of Gotra is an important aspect of Hindu society, as it determines marriage eligibility and is used to trace familial lineage.
