Lzh Dg Bu Pm 2 Pc 68Obstructions

The Sutta on Obstructions (Antarāyika)

Background

The Antarāyika Sutta is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha, where the rules governing the monastic life of monks and nuns in the Buddhist Sangha are recorded in detail. This is the foundation of monastic discipline in the Theravāda tradition.

The term “Antarāyika” means “obstructions” or “factors that cause hindrance.” In the context of the Vinaya Piṭaka, these are regulations related to actions or situations that obstruct one’s own progress in practice or that of the Sangha, especially behaviors capable of breaking harmony (saṅgha-bheda) or weakening concentration and mindfulness in the monastic community.

This sutta is constructed in the form of a list of conditions or actions that bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs must avoid. They are not necessarily direct violations leading to corresponding offenses in monastic law, but potential obstructions that require special attention.

Main Content

The specific content of this sutta has not been fully translated in existing materials. However, based on the structure of the Pātimokkha and the rules concerning obstructions, the main contents usually include:

Actions or states that monastics need to avoid:

First are activities related to sexuality, interactions inappropriate with married couples, or sexual suggestions that may distract one from the Buddha’s path.

Second are behaviors that cause division in the Sangha, such as fabricated speech, creating discord, or words that undermine faith in the Three Jewels: Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha.

Third are attitudes or actions that resist the autonomy of the Sangha, or words insulting faith in the Dharma and the teachings.

These obstructions are listed in detail to remind bhikkhus that practice is not only adherence to rigid rules, but also the cultivation of compassion, wisdom, and concentration, building a harmonious community in which all may progress toward awakening.