Lzh Mg Bi Pm Pc 36Living With an Ejected Monastic
Pāli / Sanskrit:Ukkhittasambhoga
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Ukkhittasambhoga Sutta — Living with a Bhikkhu Who Has Been Suspended
Background
The Ukkhittasambhoga Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, contained within the Pāṭimokkha — the fundamental code of ethical rules that bhikkhus (monks) must observe. The title of the sutta means "Living with one who has been suspended," referring to those monastics who have been expelled by the Sangha from communal practice (samaggīkamma) on account of serious disciplinary violations.
The circumstances giving rise to this sutta stem from practical situations within the monastic community (sangha) during the time of the Buddha. When a bhikkhu violates principal rules or neglects discipline, the Sangha has the authority to apply the measure of "suspension" (ukkhepanīya-kamma) — a form of temporary punishment that does not permit the monastic in question to participate in the collective activities of the community, such as the recitation of prayers, the sharing of robes, or traveling together on pilgrimage.
Main Content
This sutta prescribes that other bhikkhus are not to live in close association with one who has been suspended, nor are they to engage in daily activities together with that person, until the Sangha has lifted the punitive measure. However, the sutta also notes legitimate exceptions: if other monastics happen to be living together with the suspended one due to geographical circumstances — for instance, residing in the same monastery or practice area — they may still maintain minimal contact with the suspended person, provided that such contact does not undermine the spirit of the punishment.
The main content revolves around the principle of legitimate isolation, yet with defined boundaries. It does not require absolute avoidance or the humiliation of the one being punished, but rather the maintenance of Sangha discipline. The sutta details the cases in which meeting is permitted: such as in times of illness, when spiritual support is needed, or when matters pertaining to the rules of the Vinaya Piṭaka are at hand.
Practical Significance
The Ukkhittasambhoga Sutta reflects the philosophy of discipline found in the Theravāda tradition: not to punish one's character, but to protect the unity and integrity of the practice community.
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