The Title Dasavaikalika Sutra
Summary
The Dasavaikalika Sutra, part of the Ardha-Migadhi canon, has historically been referred to by two primary names: *Dasakaliya* and *Dasaveyiliya*. Early commentators like Bhadrabahu predominantly used *Dasakaliya*, while later scholars, including Jinaddsamahattara and Haribhadra, favored *Dasaveyiliya*. The text itself contains ten chapters, with two additional sections (*ciltkas*) likely added later. The second element of *Dasaveyiliya* (from *veyaliya*, meaning "calculation of rice grains") is unrelated to the title's first element (*dasa*, "ten"). The *Nijjuti* attempts to explain *dasa* and *kala* (time), but its analysis remains unclear. Haribhadra and the *Cirni* commentator offer conflicting interpretations, with the latter suggesting the title derives from evening study. Two verses in the *Nijjuti* propose alternative origins: one links the name to Sejjambhava compiling the text during the Paurusi era, while another ties it to chapters placed at the end of Vikila. Despite these theories, no definitive etymological resolution exists. The traditional view, accepted by most scholars, remains that the title reflects the work's ten-chapter structure, with later additions and ambiguous interpretations by commentators like Haribhadra.
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Conclusion
The Dasavaikalika Sutra's title, while seemingly straightforward in its numerical designation (ten chapters), reveals a complex interplay of interpretative challenges and historical inconsistencies. The analysis of the term "Dasaveyiliya" highlights the ambiguity surrounding its etymological roots, particularly the disconnect between the numerical "dasa" (ten) and the unclear "veyiliya" component, which lacks a definitive linguistic or thematic connection. The text further complicates this by introducing additional sections labeled as "ciltkas," raising questions about the original structure and the author's intent. Bhadrabahu's commentary attempts to reconcile the dual forms of the title, favoring "Dasakaliya" as the primary designation, while later commentators like Haribhadra and Jinaddsamahattara adopt "Dasaveyiliya" without resolving the discrepancy. The absence of a coherent explanation for the title's components, despite multiple attempts by scholars and commentators, underscores the enduring enigmatic nature of the work. Ultimately, the Dasavaikalika Sutra stands as a testament to the