Lzh Mg Bu Pm Pc 13Evasive Speech

Sutta on Evasive Speech (Aññavādaka)

Background

The Aññavādaka Sutta (Evasive Speech) is found within the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, specifically in the Pātimokkha — the fundamental code of discipline for monks. This sutta reflects the profound concern of early Buddhism with the ethics of speech and the responsibility of monastics in communication.

The historical context of this sutta is bound up with the formation of the monastic Saṅgha during the time of the Buddha. As the Saṅgha expanded, problems of misconduct arose, among them various forms of dishonest, confused, or deliberately evasive speech designed to avoid accountability. Such behavior was regarded as a disregard for the principle of Satya (truth) — one of the foundational ethical pillars of Buddhism.

Main Content

The Aññavādaka makes clear that a monk ought not employ vague, ambiguous, or deliberately concealing speech when questioned about matters concerning his conduct, transgressions, or observance of the Vinaya rules. The term "Aññavādaka" (one who speaks evasively / indirect speech) refers to those modes of expression that are obscure and unclear — such as the use of unintelligible language, indirect responses, or the utterance of irrelevant statements in order to avoid giving a straightforward answer.

The sutta emphasizes that within the monastic community, absolute honesty is obligatory. When a monk is questioned regarding his behavior, especially in matters pertaining to the Pātimokkha, he must respond with clarity and candor. Evasive speech is regarded as a subtle form of deception — for it employs words to obscure or distort the truth, rather than lying in an explicit manner.

This rule accords with the general spirit of the Vinaya Piṭaka, which focuses on the self-governance of the Saṅgha through periodic Uposatha assemblies, during which members collectively examine and ensure their shared adherence to ethical conduct.