Lzh Mi Bi Pm Pc 140Not Properly Answering

Explanation of the Discourse "Not Properly Answering"

From the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Early Tradition

Background

This discourse belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, especially the Pātimokkha section, the fundamental code of training for monks and nuns. In the early Vinaya tradition, each training rule (sikkhapada) has an origin story (aitihāsa) explaining the reason the Buddha established it. This discourse records a specific situation in which a bhikkhu or bhikkhunī did not answer properly within the context of communal monastic practice.

In the Theravāda tradition, accuracy and respect in communication are foundations of harmony in the Sangha (saṅgha). When a member of the community does not answer properly, whether unintentionally or deliberately, this can cause disorder, weaken shared discipline, and undermine mutual trust.

Main Content

Although the title of the discourse clearly points to the issue of "not properly answering," its content concerns a fault in observing the rules for monks and nuns. Specifically, the discourse lays down that when the Buddha or the elders inquire about conduct, the practitioner must answer clearly, truthfully, and fully.

In the Vinaya context, "not properly answering" (na sampadajjhāyati) may include lying, speaking only part of the truth, evading the question, or providing inaccurate information. Such actions not only violate integrity (sīla), but also break the trust within the community of practice.

The Buddha established these rules to protect the purity of the Sangha. Each member of the community must be committed to absolute honesty, for this is the foundation of collective practice and spiritual development.

Practical Meaning

This discourse teaches that integrity (sīla) concerns not only action but also speech. In dialogue with elders, or during confession and recitation sessions (pāṭimokkha recitation, the reciting of the prohibitions), answering improperly is a lack of respect toward the Sangha and the Buddha-Dharma.