Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct regarding Vardhamana Mahaveer? 1. Bhagwan Mahaveer established assembly halls called “Samavasarana” to spread his knowledge among the common people. 2. Eleven well learned ascetics became Mahaveer's chief
Let's examine each statement in the context of Jainism and the life of Bhagwan Mahavira:
- Bhagwan Mahaveer established assembly halls called “Samavasarana” to spread his knowledge among the common people.
- Correct with clarification: In Jain tradition, after attaining Kevala Jnana (omniscience), Tirthankaras including Mahavira delivered sermons in a divine assembly called "Samavasarana." However, it is believed that the Samavasarana is not a physical hall established by Mahavira, but a miraculous, divine assembly that appears wherever a Tirthankara attains omniscience and delivers sermons accessible to all beings (humans, animals, celestial beings).
- Eleven well learned ascetics became Mahaveer's chief disciples.
- Correct: Mahavira had eleven chief disciples known as the "Ganadharas." They were well-learned ascetics who played a crucial role in spreading his teachings.
- Mahaveer propounded a religion called the “Sarvodhaya’ Thirth” that preaches the welfare of all living beings.
- Incorrect: Mahavira did not propound a religion called "Sarvodhaya Thirth." He was the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, which indeed preaches the welfare of all living beings through principles like Ahimsa (non-violence), but the term "Sarvodhaya Thirth" is not associated with Mahavira or Jainism.
Summary:
- Statement 1: Correct (with clarification about the nature of Samavasarana)
- Statement 2: Correct
- Statement 3: Incorrect
Therefore, statements 1 and 2 are correct regarding Bhagwan Mahavira.