Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v1.c6.3231

v1.c6.3231

The *Milindapañha* (p. 5), however, places it outside the sphere of the earth. Spence Hardy³ mentions a tradition which says that Avīci is seven hundred miles directly under the Bodhi Tree at Gayā. In later books, *e.g.* the Dhammapada Commentary, it is represented as being under the earth, for we are told that the earth opened wide to allow the flames of Avīci to escape and to drag down sinners into its bowels.⁴ It seems to have been specially designed for those who had committed very grievous crimes, among whom are **Devadatta**; Cunda, the pork butcher; **Ānanda**, who raped his cousin the Therī **Uppalavaṇṇā**; the ascetic **Jambuka**, who in a previous birth had insulted an arahant; the murderer of the Pacceka Buddha **Sunetta**; **Sīvalī**, who in a former birth had blockaded a city for seven years; **Suppabuddha**, who insulted the Buddha; **Mallikā**, because of her misbehaviour with a dog (she was only there seven days); **Ciñcā-Mānavikā**, because she falsely accused the Buddha; and **Kapila**, brother of **Sodhana**, for reviling pious monks.⁵