Part 19: Separation from Gośāla

The Lord went to the city Viśālī. On the way there are two roads. Gośāla said to him: “I shall not go with you, since you look on like a neutral while I am beaten. Furthermore, the attacks on me may be caused by attacks on you, since fire soon burns even the wet from its contact with the dry. Besides, people beat me first, then you. Perhaps I obtain food, perhaps not, from the suffering. Who, pray, would serve you, who make no distinction between a stone and a jewel, a forest and a town, sunshine and pavilion, fire and a flood, one wishing to kill you and a servant? I am like a son, simple-minded. The service to you, like service to a tall pisāca^[1] which I did by mistake, that must be remembered. Henceforth, I shall certainly not do it.” Siddhārtha said: “Do whatever you like. There will certainly be no change in our conduct.” Then the Blessed One set out by the road leading to Viśālī and Gośāla went alone to Rājagṛha.