Dhamma Senapati has become arrogant

bodhi tree

Ashok Mishra

There was no dearth of Shramanas in Buddhism. Mendicant unions were formed in major cities of the country. Thousands of disciples used to stay in these monasteries and take religious initiation. He tried to purify himself and gained respect in the society. But there were some among them who had not yet matured. He could not even free himself from human vices. 

Such people often committed mistakes which were not forgivable. But Mahatma Buddha provided many opportunities for them to improve. Its just matter of one day. Mahatma Buddha was sitting in Vihar discussing religion. Then a disciple of the ashram came and said to Mahatma Buddha, ever since you have given the title of Dhamma Senapati to Sariputra, he has become as per his wish. 

He has become proud of his position. He keeps torturing the monks. They kill people. They have hit me too. Then Buddha said that even if there was some reason, it is not believed that Mahatma Sariputra would kill anyone. There is no question of beating anyone without any reason. I call Sariputra and ask. After some time, when Sariputra came there, 

Tathagata asked him, this monk says that you have killed him without any reason. Sariputra said that these monks are extremely learned and ascetic people. How can I have the audacity to kill them? I am his servant. How can Sariputra, who begs from door to door, have so much courage? If I have caused any pain, I apologize. 

On hearing this, the monk fell at the feet of Sariputra and asked for forgiveness and said, please forgive me. Out of jealousy, I accused you without any reason. Then Mahatma Buddha said to Sariputra, he has committed an unforgivable crime, but please forgive him.