Studies in the Origins of Buddhism c8.83

c8.83

Para 1—22 (Nāg. ed.) constitute the first piece of the mosaic. Buddha disagrees with Ānanda when the latter describes Paṭiccasam° as “simple”, and proceeds to explain it. In other words, the sutta represents a deliberate essay in philosophic interpretation undertaken to refute those who considered Paṭiccasam° “simple”. This suggests a scholastic authorship, delighting in metaphysical subtleties. The use of the terms Adhivacanasamphassa and Paṭigha° point in the same direction. It is noticeable, however, that in the explanation of Nāmarūpa there is no mention of the Five Khandhas.