Lzh Mg Bi Vb Pc 43Intruding on a Couple Enjoying Themselves
Pāli / Sanskrit:Sabhojana
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The Sabhojana Sutta: The Rule Concerning Intrusion Upon Those in Shared Enjoyment
Background
The Sabhojana (Sabhojana Pācittiya) is one of the rules belonging to the Pācittiya — a collection of ninety-two training rules for bhikkhus in the Theravāda tradition. Pācittiya means "expiated by confession," and these rules govern conduct that causes spiritual harm or violates principles of practice that the Sangha regards as less grave than the more serious offenses.
This rule originates from historical events within the monastic community during the time of the Buddha. Bhikkhus who, whether heedlessly or deliberately, intruded upon the private moments of married couples (or of those sharing pleasure together) gave rise to difficulties and caused the public to lose confidence in the Sangha. The Buddha therefore established this rule in order to protect civil harmony and to uphold the good reputation of the Sangha.
Principal Content
This rule stipulates that a bhikkhu must not deliberately intrude upon or interrupt a married couple (or those who are together in a moment of shared enjoyment) with the intention of separating them or imposing his will upon them. If a bhikkhu knows clearly that they are together and nonetheless intentionally enters their private space in order to disturb them, that bhikkhu has committed a Pācittiya offense.
According to the Pāli Canon, this conduct encompasses: knowing with certainty that a couple (or those sharing enjoyment) are together, and yet deliberately going to that place, or seeking to interfere either directly or indirectly. However, if a bhikkhu does not clearly know the situation, or if there is an urgent reason — such as rescuing them from danger — no offense is regarded as having been committed.
Exceptional circumstances are recorded in the Vinaya commentaries (Vinayaṭṭhakathā), such as when it is necessary to convey important news, or when the bhikkhu himself is unaware of the circumstances of those present.
Practical Significance
For practitioners in the present day, the Sabhojana rule is not merely a prohibition against physical action; it is also a reminder to respect the private space and domestic happiness of others.
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