Lzh Mg Bi Pm Pc 5Intentionally Killing Living Creatures
Pāli / Sanskrit:Sañcicca
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THE SAÑCICCA SCRIPTURE
Exposition of the Rule Concerning Intentional Killing
Background
This rule appears in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, specifically in the Pāṭimokkha (the Code of Discipline) — the fundamental set of precepts that all monks (bhikkhus) must observe. The Sañcicca rule addresses one of the most fundamental principles: the prohibition of intentional killing.
In its historical context, the Buddha established this system of rules to govern the monastic community, and at the same time to lay the foundation for a way of life in accordance with the Dharma. Each rule (khandhaka) in the Pāṭimokkha was established in response to a specific event, after which the Buddha declared the rationale and the corresponding penalty. The rule concerning killing is among the most essential, deeply reflecting the theory of the Noble Eightfold Path and the truths of impermanence, suffering, and non-self.
Main Content
The rule on intentional killing (sañcicca pahānam) is classified as a Pārājika offense (one of the Four Pārājika) — actions that cause the one who commits them to be expelled from the Sangha immediately, with no possibility of continuing one's training within the Vinaya. This demonstrates the absolute importance of this rule.
According to the rule, if a bhikkhu intentionally causes the death of a living being (jantu) — whether an animal or an insect — he has committed the first or second Pārājika offense (depending on the specific tradition). The pivotal point is "sañcicca" (intentionally), meaning the act must be carried out with a clear and deliberate intention to kill.
This rule prohibits not only the direct act of killing, but also indirect actions: dismantling traps to kill animals, instructing another person to kill, or finding ways to weaken someone's life force. Thus, this code encompasses all modes of killing carried out through thought, speech, or bodily action.
The penalty for this offense is the loss of the status of bhikkhu (expulsion from the order), meaning one is compelled to return to lay life and is unable to attain any of the stages of realization on the path of the Buddhist practitioner.
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