The University of Nalanda c14.52

c14.52

If nothing condemnatory could be found in the life of a Nālandā-student, there being no positive evidence, we get an insight into the Vikramaśīlā-student-life from the following story told by Das.² There was in Vikramaśīlā, a class of Tāntriks called by the name of Kimsukha, who once brought much trouble on Atīśa. One Maitri, who belonged to that class, was charged with certain irregularities in matters of doctrine, ritual and other matters of a similar nature, on account of which something condemnatory was written on the wall at the entrance of the *Vihāra* by a monk called Śānti. On another occasion a quantity of wine was detected in the possession of Maitri, which he had kept secretly in his place, and which he was alleged to have brought for being given as a present to a Buddhist Yoginī, whom he intended to consult on certain matters. The fact having been brought to the notice of the *sangha*, they expressed their indignation at his conduct and decided to expel him from the monastery, but Maitri was unwilling to abide by their decision. At this stage there arose a difference in the opinion of the members of the *sangha*, some taking his side, others opposing him vehemently. The majority of the monks insisted on his being turned out of the monastery. One of the monks observed: “If his stay in our midst does not affect me or you individually, it may injure others (less guarded).” So, at last his expulsion was decided upon. His offence being considered a serious one, he was not permitted to be expelled by the main entrance. He was sent across the wall of the monastery. Though Atīśa, as the head of the *sangha*, had acquiesced in their decision about Maitri, yet personally he entertained doubts about its propriety and equity.