The University of Nalanda c9.18

c9.18

We have dismissed Hiuen Tsiang's theory because it reminded us of many of the Jātaka tales which are pure inventions of the devout Buddhists. But if we eschew the mythical portion (viz. that which refers to the previous life of Buddha, as a great king who gave to all in charity without intermission) and keep in mind that Nālandā was a rich place, as has been proved by its past history then we say that Nālandā derived its name because of its hospitality and charity.²