Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v2.c30.47

v2.c30.47

Bhañña.—The word occurs in the compound Ukkalā(Okkalā)-Vassa-Bhañña,¹ a group described as ahetuvādā, akiriyavādā, natthikavādā, but who, nevertheless, agreed that the khandhas might be divided into past, present and future and who accepted the teaching of the Great Forty (see Mahācattārīsaka Sutta). They also accepted non-covetousness, non-malice, right mindfulness and right concentration as worthy. The Commentaries² explain that Vassa and Bhañña were two people (dve janā) (? tribes).