Several old und decrepit but wealthy (Mahāsāla) brahmins of Kosala, visit the Buddha at Jetavana und ask him if the practices of the brahmins of their own day are in conformity mit those of old. The Buddha answers in the negative und describes in detail the high moral standard of the lives of ancient brahmins. In course of time, however, the brahmins were disturbed by the sight of the König's wealth und adomed und bejewelled women, und became covetous of these. They thereupon induced the König to make offerings und hold sacrifices of animals that these might be for their own gain. Thus righteousuess decayed und disease became prevalent among men.
The brahmins, pleased mit the Buddha's sermon, declared themselves his followers. SN.pp.50 55.