Ajivika / Aseevagam. An ascetic sect that emerged in ancient India about the same time as Jainism and before Buddhism and that lasted until the 14th century. Founded by Markali Gosalar. This vdeo documentary explains about Aseevagam sect, Samanam / Sramana Movement, Philosophical theories of Ajivika / Aseevagam, Wisdom color hierarchy, Theertha Vidanars of Aseevagam, Rise and Summary of Aseevagam History.
The History of the Ajivikas commenced, as the Buddhist records indicate, with Nanda Vaccha who was succeeded in leadership of the sect by Kisa Samkicca. The third leader of the Ajivikas and the greatest exponent of their religion philosophy in the time of Buddha Gotama was Makkhali Gosala who is often mentioned as the second in the Buddhist list of six heretical teachers.
Three Tamil texts, the Manimakalai of the Buddhists, the Nilakesi of the Jains, all contain outlines of Aseevagam doctrine. The Nilakesi, a Tamil Jaina text, states that Gosala exhorted his disciples to abide by strict moral observances, and that they observed silas though they denied their efficacy.
Sources:
History and Doctrines of the Ajivikas: A Vanished Indian Religion – A. L. Basham
The Ajivikas – B.M. Barua
Thamizhakathil Aaceevakarkal – R.Vijayalakshmy
Barabar Caves were constructed by emperor Ashoka for the use of Ajivaka ascetics.
What is India’s ancient religion?
What is Ajivika philosophy?
Who followed Ajivika?
Who were known as śramaṇas?
What is Aseevagam?
What is niyati in ajivika?
Who was the founder of Ajivika?
Who is Makkhali Gosala?
What color represents soul?
Does a soul have a color?
