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If there had been even a single reference in the Jain Aga mas contradicting the fact stated in the above three allusions viz. Mahăvira predeceased Buddha, it could have created a doubt over the credibility of these allusions. But, because we do not get any such contradictory description in the Jain Aga mas, we should not doubt the veracity of these allusions. Secondly, had there been a fourth allusion in the Buddhist Tripitakas, stating something about Buddha's predeceasing Mahāvira, it would have been necessary for us to ponder over the above three allusions seriously. But in absence of any such contradictions, it would not in the least be inequitable to accept these allusions, which are unequivocal in themselves, as the valid testimonies for the discovery of truth.
The Events of Mahavira's Seniority in Buddhist Tripitakas
Besides the above quoted three allusions, the Buddhist cannons are replete with numerous allusions which show that Mahavira was older than Buddha. Most of the scholars, so far, have mainly discussed the aforesaid three allusions only. Only God knows why they have lost sight of other relevant allusions wherein it is explicitly stated and even Buddha himself accepts that he is the youngest of all the religious leaders of his time. We quote here three such allusions (147): "Thus have I heard: -
The Exalted one was once staying near Sayatthi, atthe Jeta Grove, in Anathapind ika's Park. Now the king, Kos alana Pasenadi, came into the presence of the Exalted One, and after exchanging greetings with him and compliments of friendship and courtesy, sat down at one side. So seated he said to the Exalted One.
"'Does master Gotama also make no claim to be perfectly and supremely enlightened ? '
" If there be anyone, sire, to whom such enlightenment might rightly be attributed, it is I. I verily, sire, am perfectly and supremely enlightened'.
" 'But, master Gotama, there are recluses and brahmins who also like yourself) have each their order of disciples, their attendant followers, who are teachers of dis
