SV: Dakkhi.nodaka

You are right. However, I cannot see that it makes much difference in terms
of semantics to say that x is for y or x (which)is y (the kammadhaaraya
solution, which interprets one member of a compound as apposition to the
other). Clearly water is a dakkhi.naa in the traditional Indian sense: it is
placed in front (aggato) of the recipient as a ceremonial gift. I assume
that the word and the ceremony itself are derived from the brahmnaical
dak.si.naa ceremony, but, of course, in a different context.

O.H.Pind


<The Thai translation is "water for daksi.naa", which would make it a
catutthi tappurisa.  The Thai dictionary gives this meaning: "water used to
wash at the time of giving gifts, in order to dedicate an extra portion of
the merit to the deceased."  Since the word dakkhi.na had become such a
catch-all phrase regarding gifts and dedication, it would make sense that
dakkhi.nodaka be ceremonially "for" or even "of" the gift giving instead of
as a gift itself.  In Thailand, it is still a custom in some places to offer
such water to the monks to pour themselves in order to dedicate merit for
the donors and their relatives. 

Personally, I just assumed this name referred to cultural stigma (and health
concerns!) against using the left hand for eating (it being used to clean
the other end)>

Yuttadhammo




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