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Khuddakapāṭha

Its rightful claim to be included as part of the Tipiṭaka was disputed both by the Dīgha-bhāṇakas and the Majjhima-bhāṇakas (DA.i.15). It is generally acknowledged (for a discussion see Law, Pāli Lit., i.7f; 34f) that the work is of later composition and that it contains extracts from earlier works. It may have been composed in Sri Lanka, and it is significant that its first mention as a canonical book should occur only in the commentaries. It is not mentioned even in the Milindapañha.

The book consists of nine sections. Four on texts:

1. Saraṇattaya (the refuges),
2. Dasasikkhāpada (the ten precepts),
3. Dvattiṃsākāra (the 32 body contemplations),
4. Kumārapañha (the novice’s questions),

and five on suttas:

1. Maṅgala,
2. Ratana,
3. Tirokuḍḍa,
4. Nidhikaṇḍa, and
5. Metta

- all found elsewhere in the Canon.

According to the Commentary the book derives its name from the first four texts, which are shorter than the remaining five. KhpA.13. The Commentary was written by Buddhaghosa. See also Gv.59, 68.

Dictionary of Pāli Proper Names • G.P. Malalasekera