Teacher of Humanity

Author(s): C S Mallinath
Publisher: Pulchandji Ved

Page 18

15
He also explained that the five cardinal precepts of Jainism were the same as those taught in the Hindu Shastras. He concluded by saying that a true brotherhood of religions could only be secured by the followers of each recognizing and honouring the truths contained in other faiths. The Maharaja was so much pleased with the simplicity and learning of the Monk that he regarded him as a great acquisition to his State: and from that day he began to take keen interest in the Pathashala and encouraged its growth by all sympathetic means.
In 1906 Dharma Vijaya was invited to the Sanatana Dharma Mahasabha held on the occasion of the Kumbha Mela at Allahabad. He went there and made the best use of the opportunity by speaking on Jain Religion as taught by the Tirthankaras. The Maharaja of Darbhanga, who was present in the sabha, was so much impressed with the Monk's learning that he invited him to his place of residence and asked him questions about Jainism and Buddhism. Dharma Vijaya explained to the Maharaja the points of difference, and proved to his satisfaction that Jainism was older than, and independent of, Buddhism.
After the rainy season in 1906 Dharma Vijaya left Benares with four monks and twenty students and went on his travels to preach the Gospel of the Jina. Making his way through Arrah and Patna,