Lzh Mg Bi Vb Sk 74Walking Behind
Pāli / Sanskrit:Pacchatogamana
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Pacchatogamana Sutta (Walking Behind)
Background
The Pacchatogamana Sutta is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Bhikkhuṇī Vibhaṅga (the Analysis of the Rules for Bhikkhuṇīs). It is a detailed disciplinary regulation concerning the conduct of female monastics within the Buddhist Sangha. This discipline arose from specific historical situations within the Sangha, in which female disciples of the Buddha displayed behaviors that required correction in order to protect the image, the respect, and the harmony of the monastic community.
According to the Theravāda tradition, the act of bhikkhuṇīs walking behind bhikkhus (pacchatogamana) in certain circumstances was considered capable of arousing suspicion and causing harm to the honor of the Sangha. Therefore, the Buddha established clear rules to restrict this behavior, in order to uphold purity and the Dharma.
Main Content
The Pacchatogamana Sutta stipulates that a bhikkhuṇī should not walk behind a bhikkhu in certain situations—particularly when entering secluded places or circumstances likely to give rise to negative rumor. This regulation does not stem from any difference in worth or capacity for practice, but from consideration of the social context and common perception.
The Vinaya Piṭaka explains that this behavior may be regarded as a violation of the Pārājikacchedanīya Sikkhāpada (the training rule requiring separate abandonment), depending on the specific circumstances. If a bhikkhuṇī deliberately walks behind a bhikkhu with improper intention, knowing that such behavior will arouse suspicion, this constitutes a breach of discipline.
However, the Vinaya Piṭaka also acknowledges reasonable exceptions. If bhikkhuṇīs and bhikkhus travel the same road together for legitimate reasons—such as returning to the monastery at the same time after their alms rounds—this is not considered a violation. The crucial point rests in the intention (cetanā) and the context, not in the physical action itself.
Practical Significance
The teaching on walking behind carries profound significance in Theravāda practice.
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