Lzh Dg Bi Pm Pc 62Hitting

Pahāra Discourse (Hitting): An Explanation of the Vinaya

Background

The Pahāra discourse is a rule found in the Pātimokkha, the fundamental code of monks and nuns. This injunction is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pācittiya section, concerning lesser offenses that require confession. The origin of this rule is connected with a specific incident in the early monastic community: one monk struck (pahāra) another bhikkhu for unjustified reasons.

After the act was reported to him, the Buddha Śākyamuni determined that the act of hitting was a violation of the holy discipline. This reflects a central principle of Theravāda Buddhism: monastics must observe pure conduct, not only in outward bodily action but also in thought and speech.

Main Content

The Pahāra rule states that if a monk or nun intends to strike (pahāretabbā) any person, whether a bhikkhu, a nun, or even an outsider, and carries out that action, that person commits a Pācittiya offense. The word “pahāra” includes acts such as punching, slapping, using a stick, or using any object to attack another person.

The key point of this rule is intention (cetanā). If there is no intention to strike, for example in an accidental collision, there is no violation. However, if intention is present and the action is carried out, whether or not harm results, it is still a Pācittiya offense, an offense requiring confession before the Sangha.

This rule also reflects distinctions in the degree of violation. If the act of striking causes serious injury, it may be considered under other rules, such as Pārājika or Saṅghādisesa, but ordinary forms of hitting are classified as Pācittiya.

Practical Meaning

The Pahāra discourse is not only about prohibiting physical violence; it reflects the profound principle that practitioners of the Buddha’s Dharma must train in controlling thoughts and actions.