History and Doctrines of the Ajivikas: A Vanished Indian Religion c11.s9.30

c11.s9.30

Our doubts as to the reliability of the story of Gosāla’s praise of Mahāvīra are strengthened by a reference in the Sūtrakṛtāṅga,² wherein he speaks of his former comrade in far less friendly terms. Here Gosāla is involved in discussion with a certain Adda, an earnest disciple of Mahāvīra, and criticizes his rival on various grounds. Mahāvīra had formerly been a solitary ascetic, but was now surrounded by monks, to whom he taught the law. One or other of these courses must be wrong.³ He was afraid to stay in public guest-houses or gardens for fear of meeting skilful men, whether base or noble, talkative or taciturn, who might put awkward questions to him.⁴ Finally Gosāla alleged that Mahāvīra was a mercenary teacher, vending his wares like a merchant.¹