Lzh Mg Bu Pm Pj 2Theft
Pāli / Sanskrit:Adinnādāna
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Commentary on the Adinnādāna Sutta (Theft)
Background
The Adinnādāna Sutta is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, which contains the ethical and disciplinary regulations governing the conduct of Buddhist monastics. Within the context of Early Buddhism, the Vinaya Piṭaka was compiled after the Buddha's entry into Nirvana, based upon His teachings delivered over forty-five years of ministry. The term "Adinnādāna" (A-dinn-ā-dāna) is a compound of two Pāli words: adinna (that which has not been given) and dāna (taking). This precept constitutes one of the five fundamental prohibitions of Buddhism, applying not only to monastics but to all who sincerely follow the Dharma.
This teaching is recorded within the Pātimokkha — the foundational rules that monastics are required to uphold. The purpose of the Vinaya Piṭaka is not to restrict or punish, but to establish a harmonious and pure community within which spiritual practice may flourish and endure.
Principal Contents
Adinnādāna refers to the act of taking that which has not been permitted by its owner — in other words, theft. The text defines clearly that any person, regardless of age or social standing, who takes the belongings, money, or property of another without the consent of the owner — whether by stealth or openly — is in violation of this precept.
The Vinaya Piṭaka draws a clear distinction between degrees of transgression: ranging from minor acts such as taking a single leaf without permission, to the theft of property of great value. Each degree of transgression is addressed through different forms of redress within the monastic community. Of particular importance is the fact that Early Buddhism holds a deep awareness of the intention (cetanā) underlying an action — if there is no intention to steal, the act is not regarded as a violation of the precept.
The Vinaya also sets forth certain exemptions: one may take necessary requisites that are in short supply and have not been specifically designated for another, or in urgent circumstances in order to preserve life. Even in such cases, however, the person performing the action must maintain a clear awareness of the transgression and be prepared to accept responsibility for it.
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