Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v2.c31.813

v2.c31.813

2. Malaya.—The mountainous country of Ceylon, originally the home of the Pulindā.¹ When Duṭṭhagāmaṇi fled from his father's wrath, it was in Malaya that he hid.² In Malaya was the Ambaṭṭhakolalena, from which Duṭṭhagāmaṇi obtained silver for the Mahā Thūpa.³ The hill-country provided protection from marauders who invaded Ceylon,⁴ and also from those causing danger to the rightful ruler.⁵ When Buddhism was threatened by the activities of unbelievers who had obtained possession of Anurādhapura, it was to Malaya and to Rohaṇa that the monks fled in order to save themselves and their teaching.⁶ Malaya also afforded shelter to rebels against the government both during preparations for attack and, if necessary, during their flight.⁷