________________ that he gained knowledge from Parmatma Mahavir, surrendered to HIM and accepted HIM as his religious Guru. HIS disciples, however, did not regard Parmatma Mahavir as their Guru, but continued to regard Ambad Sanyasi as their Guru. Ambad Sanyasi had a vow-to drink water only with permission. When he did not get water, he instantly took a vow of santharo and began chanting: "Mum Dhamma Guru Dhamma Ayariye Shraman Bhagwan Mahavir Swami!" His seven hundred disciples chanted: "Mum Dhamma Guru Dhamma Ayariye Ambad Sanyasi!" The seven hundred disciples of Ambad Sanyasi had taken vows of a shravak(layman). It is mentioned in the Aagam that they had knowledge of all living beings as well as that of good and evil. Knowledge and wisdom come naturally to the one who has completely surrendered to his Guru! The Aagam is the key strength of a devotee. According to the circumstances of this time & age, we must accept that all Panchmahavratdhari saints are Gurus. Our religion believes in anekantvad (multiplicity of views) - everyone is correct from their perspective.
