21. GODS BESEACHING BHAGAVAN MAHAVIRA TO ESTABLISH THE RELIGIOUS ORDER

Prince Vardhamana led a very simple and disciplined life for one year. When he realized that he had now exactly one more year of a householder’s life left, he undertook very severe and rigid austerities. If one wishes to lead the whole world and perfect code of along the proper path, then one must be equipped with omniscience and perfect code of conduct. Prince Vardhamana was accordingly trying to equip himself for the spiritual leadership of the universe. Just at this juncture, nine Lokantika gods approach him, bow down to him and hail and greet him. They are seen here requesting and entreating him to establish a religious order that will save all creatures and lead them to eternal bliss and salvation.