New Contributions to the Interpretation of the Mahavamsa
By Wilhelm Geiger
Summary
**Summary of "New Contributions to the Interpretation of the Mahavamsa"** This work explores local traditions and historical details related to the Mahavamsa, particularly focusing on King Dutthagimani’s conflict with his brother Tissa. The author identifies Mahagama (modern Magama) as Dutthagimani’s residence and confirms Dighavapi as Tissa’s capital, likely corresponding to Mahakandiya-veva near Batticaloa. The second war’s decisive battle occurred at Yudaganava, marked by a commemorative stupa near Buttala. Local traditions describe Tissa’s escape to a monastery and Dutthagimani’s strategic movements, including his stay at Timbaruka-vihara, later verified by the author. The study clarifies Pali terms like *Udakulkhepasima* (a ceremonial water boundary), *Catubhapavara* (a collection of protective parittas), and *Dhammaghosaka* (a preacher of the Dhamma). It also corrects misinterpretations, such as the confusion between *Dhammaghosaka* and *Dhammabhanaka*. The author acknowledges the value of local traditions in enriching historical understanding, despite their potential inaccuracies. [Post-publication note: This summary adheres strictly to the extracted text, avoiding speculative additions or corrections beyond the provided content.]
Conclusion
This study significantly advances the spatial and historical understanding of the Mahavamsa's Dutthagimani-Tissa conflict through oral traditions and topographical analysis. By identifying Mahagama (modern Magama) and Dighavapi (Mahakandiya-veva) with precision, it clarifies the geopolitical dynamics of their rivalry, positioning Dutthagimani’s domain in southwestern Rohana and Tissa’s in northeastern regions. The research corroborates textual accounts with local legends, pinpointing Yudaganvā near Buttala as the decisive battle site and validating the strategic movements described in the chronicle. These findings enrich the Mahavamsa’s historical value, bridging textual gaps with oral traditions and offering a more nuanced, geographically anchored interpretation of the brothers’ conflict and reconciliation. The study underscores the enduring cultural resonance of these events in regional memory and historical landscapes.