EAP756/11/1/2

Kammavācā manuscript containing nine sections, includes upasampadā (ff. ka-ku v), ovāda (ff. ku v - kai r), kaṭhina (ff. kai r – ko v), sīmā (ko v - kha r), thera (kha r – kha v), nāma (kha v – khā r), vihāra (kappiyabhūmi) (khā r – khā v), kuṭi (khā v – khi v), nissayamutta samuti (khi v – khī). Kammavācā is a ritual monastic text recited on specific occasions, such as the ordination of a new monk, formal instruction of a newly ordained monk about the basics of monastic discipline, consecration of an ordination hall, etc. Formal recitation and silent approval of assembled monks signifies important status transitions for persons requesting such recitation or for property that requires ritual clearance for proper monastic use. The scope of kammavācā manuscripts varied from one section (i.e. a single purpose) to multiple (and, thus, multiple-purpose) ones. Decorated kammavācā manuscripts were donated to the abbots of monasteries or established monastic leaders. For that reason, they were mass-produced at least since the early eighteenth century or earlier, resulting in the development of a specialized craft of their manufacture that survived into the second half of the twentieth century.

Extent and format of original material: 1 bundle of 16 folios.