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to protect me? I am not of the body. I am established in the Self
During this time of his austerities Mahavira had to endure great afflictions, including snakes, scorpions and wild beasts pestering and threatening his life. There were also natural phenomena in the form of dust storms, heat, and vicious heat waves, which might have deterred him from his inner path of meditation. However, Mahavira, “the great hero,” remained resolute and
unmoved.
At the age of 42, Mahavira attained the state of complete dispassion, defeating the foes of attachments, selfish desires, and hatred. Thus, he then became a true Mahavira, or great conqueror. He attained the divine power of omniscience and became known as Bhagawan (Lord). He achieved enlightenment (Kevali Jnana) and he became Tirthankara, a bridge builder to the shore of absolute freedom. He was honored with the name, Bhagavan Mahavira.
Lord Mahavira: His Teachings
Thereupon, Lord Mahavira began his journey to spread the essential teachings of Jain tradition. He rejected the superiority of the higher castes which were only based on birth. Therefore,
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