Lzh Mi Bi Pm Pc 120Not Following Preceptor for 6 Years

The Sutta on Not Following the Preceptor for Six Years

Background

This sutta is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, in the Pācittiya section, rules requiring confession if violated. It reflects a specific situation that occurred in the early Sangha during the Buddha’s lifetime, concerning the relationship between a student (nissaya) and a guiding teacher (ācariya or preceptor).

The historical context shows that the Buddha was deeply concerned with systematic cultivation and the structure of guidance in the Sangha. A newly ordained monk or bhikkhunī needed a guide to be taught the Dharma and Vinaya, methods of practice, and the conduct of one gone forth. The preceptor is not merely the one who confers ordination, but a spiritual teacher responsible for instructing the student throughout the course of training.

The situation addressed by the sutta is that of a student not following the guidance of the teacher for six years, a considerable period of time. This is not a small matter, because it reflects a breakdown in the teacher-student relationship, one of the important pillars of Buddhist training.

Main Content

This rule states that if a monk or nun does not follow the guidance of their preceptor for six years, this is considered a pācittiya violation, a fault requiring confession before the Sangha. Pācittiya is not the gravest offense, such as pārājika or saṅghādisesa, but it is still a significant fault, showing lack of respect and discipline.

“Not following” (apatthaddha) in this context means not listening, not obeying, or actively disregarding the teachings and guidance of the preceptor. This is a violation of the basic ethical relationship. The six-year period mentioned shows that this is not a temporary oversight, but a firmly established attitude lacking humility.