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608
"Just as among the bests are the Vipula mountain here at Rājagrha, Kailāsa in the Himālayas 1, the sun among the heavenly bodies moving through the sky, the ocean among the water reservoirs, and the moon among the planetary bodies,, so is Buddha among all beings, including the devas, in the universe".
Source: Samyukta Nikāya, Nanatitthiya
Sutta, 2-3-10.
Comment
There are references in the Aga mas in which gods are found to be taking interest in the views and teachings of the spiritual leaders. The god who discussed with Kundakaulika who happened to be a follower of Mahāvira appears to have been a admirer of Gosālaka. Sakadalaaputra who was a follower of Gosālaka received a message from a god who was friendly to Mahāvira,
32. Pingalakoccha Brahmin
Once when Buddha was at Srāvasti, a Pingalakoccha Brahmin came to him and asked if the different spiritual leaders of the age were correct in their views, incorrect or partly correct and partly incorrect. Buddha did not evince interest in the question, but described at length his own views.
Source: Majjhima Nikāya, Cala Sầropa ma
Suttanta, 1-3-10.
Comment
It had always been the practice with Buddha to avoid questions and impose his own sermon.
33. Jatilasutta
Once when Buddha was at Srāvasti, King Prasenajita came to him and took his seat. Just then 'seven Jatilas, 1. Majjhima Nikaya Atthabathã.
