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and from a moral point of view, one evidently notices that Budddhism and Jainism had an independent existence. Brahmin students were maintaining themselves on Bhikşå (begging of alms ). Jaina Sädhus ard Buddha Ấramaņas used to do the same Before the Birth of Buddhism, Bhiksă was prevalent among Parivrajakas* ( wandering mendicants ). They were observing Brahmacarya ( celibacy ) and were carying on discussions on fundamentals of religion and morality. Males and females were admitted into their fold, and they had an equal right of expression of the individual notions and ideas.
It seems justifiable, under the existing circumstances that Buddhism must have received a motive encouragement for its advancement during those times. It has been proved without any shadow of doubt that the Jaina Religion is more ancient than the Hindu and Buddhist Religions.
Institution of Aśramas.
The institution of Aśramas has most probably been established by the Brahmins from their familiarity with the Jaina Religion, and from the rise of the advanced views of the Buddhist Religion. The fourth Āśrama-Sanyasta-āśrama-cannot be entered into without duly passing through the first three or at least two previous āśramas, namely through 1 Brahma-carya-āśrama 2 Grihasthāśrama and 3 Vānaprastha-asrama By adopting the institution of Pour Āśramas, the Brahmins made a bold effort of establishing their superiority over the three remaining castes viz the Ksatriyas, Vaişyas and Sudras. But they were not successful. Had they been at all successful, Buddhism would have experienced a severe set-back. There is ample evidence to prove this historical event.t
*See, Pages 33-39-210 Mahavira Caritra for Utpala, Ambada Parivrājaka
Read Pages 1-272-279. of Dialogues of Buddha by Prof. Dr. Rhys Davids.
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