Lzh Mi Bi Pm Pc 109Kiṁ punaḥ

Kiṁ Punaḥ - Explanation

Background

“Kiṁ punaḥ” (Pāli: “What further?”) is a regulation belonging to the Pātimokkha, the basic code that bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs must observe. This sutta is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, the third division of the Pāli Tipiṭaka, which records the rules of practice and the governance of the Sangha from the time of the Buddha.

In historical context, the Pātimokkha was preserved as a living ethical system, not a set of mechanical prohibitions. Each rule (sikkhāpada) has a profound reason behind it. The Kiṁ punaḥ sutta belongs to the group of Pācittiya rules, lesser violations that still require confession (pācitti). This classification helps the Sangha clearly understand the seriousness of an act and apply appropriate measures.

According to the Theravāda tradition, the Vinaya Piṭaka is not merely a collection of penal rules, but also a path of practice intended to educate the mind and train morality. Each rule arose from the wisdom of the Buddha, who witnessed problems arising in the monastic community and gave illuminating guidance.

Main Content

The specific content of the Kiṁ punaḥ sutta has not been fully translated in the present document. However, based on the general structure of the Pācittiya rules in the Pātimokkha, this sutta most likely revolves around a specific act that bhikkhus or bhikkhunīs should avoid.

Pācittiya rules often relate to deviations in monastic life, such as conduct concerning property, food, robes, or ways of interacting with others. The phrase “Kiṁ punaḥ” (“what further?”) is often used in the Pātimokkha to introduce a detailed list or to pose a rhetorical question that stimulates mindfulness.

In the context of the Vinaya Piṭaka, the rules are explained through three main factors: action (kamma), intention (cetanā), and context (okāsa).