Prakrit Proper Names (Agamic Index I) v1.c5.s2.38

v1.c5.s2.38

An interesting dialogue between Goyama i e Imdabhūi and Kesi (1) a monk of the line of Titthayara Pāsa (1) is recorded in Uttarajjhayana⁷ It indicates the way in which the union between the old *sangha* (church) of Pāsa and the new *sangha* of Mahāvīra was brought about Kesi said to Goyama I want to ask you something holy man Goyama made the following reply Sir ask whatever you like Kesi said The Law taught by Pāsa recognised only four vows whereas that of Mahāvīra enjoins five Both Laws pursuing the same end what has caused this difference? Goyama replied The ascetics under the first Titthayara were simple but slow of understanding those under the last one prevaricating and slow of understanding and those between these two were simple and wise Hence there are two forms of the Law Kesi asked another question The Law taught by Mahāvīra forbids clothes whereas that of Pasa allows an under and upper garment Both Laws pursuing the same end what has caused this difference? Goyama replied The various outward marks have been introduced in order to make the people recognise them as such The reason for introducing the characteristic marks is their usefulness for religious life and their distinguishing character In fact right knowledge right faith and right conduct are the true causes of liberation and not the outward marks 8 Mahāvīra once advised Goyama to confess his guilt before Anamda (11) who was simply a lay votary and to ask for his pardon for he had misguided Anamda He further asked him to expiate for the same Mahāvīra once consoled Imdabhuī by predicting You shall also attain omniscience like me 9 The name of Imdabhu is frequently mentioned in the canonical literature There he puts questions and Mahāvīra answers 0 He obtained omniscience immediately after the emancipation of Mahāvīra to whom he was very much attached He attained emancipation in Rāyagiha after enjoying a life of ninety two years in all Ascetic Kodinna(5) along with his five hundred pupils was a disciple of Imdabhuī 13