Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v2.c27.1582

v2.c27.1582

Pāveyyakā.—The name given to the inhabitants of Pāvā—e.g., Pāveyyakā Mallā.¹ Pāvā was evidently a centre of Buddhist activity even during the lifetime of the Buddha, and mention is made of Pāveyyaka monks in the Vinaya.² During the time of the Vajjiputta heresy, it was the Pāveyyakā who upheld the true doctrine, their leaders being Revata, Sambhūta-Sāṇavāsī, Yasa Kākaṇḍakaputta and Sumana.³ In this connection the Pāveyyakā are also described as “Pacchimikā” in opposition to the Vajjiputtakas who are called “Pācinakā.” It is explained⁴ that the Pāveyyakā were called “Pacchimikā” because they lived to the west.⁵