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The Buddha’s Wordplays: The Rhetorical Function and Efficacy of Puns and Etymologizing in the Pali Canon

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Abstract

This essay explores selected examples of puns and etymologizing in the Pali canon. It argues that they do not solely serve a satirical intent, but are sophisticated rhetorical devices, skilfully employed by the Buddha to induce a reflective awareness in the listeners and persuade them into accepting his view. Their rhetorical function and efficacy is investigated, while foregrounding a new interpretation of the Aggaññasutta.

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* References to Pali texts are to the editions of the Pali Text Society and, where specified, to the Chaṭṭha Saṅgāyana Tipiṭaka 4th edition (CST4)

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  1. Ludwig-Maximilian-University, Munich, Germany

    Paolo Visigalli

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Visigalli, P. The Buddha’s Wordplays: The Rhetorical Function and Efficacy of Puns and Etymologizing in the Pali Canon. J Indian Philos 44, 809–832 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10781-015-9286-3

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