Lzh Mg Bi Vb Pc 16Throwing Out a Monastic
Pāli / Sanskrit:Nikkaḍḍhana
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Nikkaḍḍhana Sutta: The Expulsion of a Bhikkhu
Background
Nikkaḍḍhana (from Pāli nik- "out" + kaḍḍhana "pulling, drawing") is a Pācittiya (offense of expiation) recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically within the Bhikkhunī Pātimokkha—the rules of purification for bhikkhunīs. This case arises in the context of the Saṅgha's handling of ethical violations, particularly concerning the possibility of a bhikkhunī being collectively expelled from the community of meditation by the Saṅgha if her actions or words cause harm to harmony, or constitute "Saṅgha-bheda" (the splitting of the Saṅgha).
This rule reflects the deep concern of Theravāda Buddhism for the preservation of discipline and order within the religious community. The historical record shows that in the early period of Buddhism, the Saṅgha was required to deal with cases of bhikkhunīs whose conduct was destructive to internal harmony, and accordingly established appropriate forms of discipline.
Main Content
This Pācittiya rule stipulates that if a bhikkhunī persistently acts or speaks in ways that make it impossible for members of the Saṅgha to live together harmoniously—such as causing division, propagating distorted teachings, or engaging in ethically immature conduct—the Saṅgha may carry out the penalty of "expulsion" (nikkaḍḍhana), whether temporary or permanent depending on the severity of the offense.
This procedure is conducted according to democratic principles: the bhikkhunīs of the Saṅgha must convene, deliberate on the offensive conduct, and reach a unanimous decision (Saṅgha-sammati). The one expelled is referred to as "nikkaḍḍhā," meaning "one who has been drawn out." During the period of expulsion, she is not permitted to participate in Saṅgha activities, is not permitted to receive lodging within the monastery, and is not provided with requisites by the community.
The purpose is not harsh punishment, but rather a reformative measure, intended to awaken the offender and protect the integrity of the Saṅgha. If that person genuinely repents, the Saṅgha may consider readmitting them.
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