Lzh Mi Bi Pm Pc 176Ordain Hermaphrodite
Pāli / Sanskrit:Ordain hermaphrodite
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Explanation of the Discourse "Ordain Hermaphrodite" (Lzh Mi Bi Pm Pc 176)
Background
This discourse belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the early tradition, specifically the Pātimokkha, the prohibitions for bhikkhus. Lzh Mi Bi Pm Pc 176 is a rule in the Pācittiya section, offenses requiring confession, concerning permission for monastics with unusual biological characteristics to go forth and live in the Sangha.
When the Buddha was still alive, he established the Sangha with clear rules. Yet practical situations that could not be foreseen required the Buddha to issue detailed regulations. This discourse reflects his fairness and wisdom, accepting individuals with special circumstances, provided they have the aspiration to practice and observe the true Dharma.
Main Content
According to the regulations in the Vinaya Piṭaka, a person wishing to go forth must meet certain standards. People with disabilities or unusual biological characteristics were often excluded from the Sangha for reasons of practice and spiritual discipline. However, this Pācittiya 176 discourse states that a bhikkhu or bhikkhunī who is curious about the biological condition of a candidate for ordination, especially people bearing characteristics of both male and female, what ancient people called "hermaphrodite," must not hesitate, discriminate, or reject them on this basis without considering the whole situation.
Instead, the rule emphasizes that the main criterion is the aspiration to practice the true Dharma. If the candidate has a pure intention, observes the discipline, and is ready to study the Buddha-Dharma, they have the right to be recognized in the Sangha. The prohibition here is not a prohibition against allowing them to go forth, but a prohibition against unfair discriminatory actions based on a factor unrelated to the foundation of moral conduct.
Practical Meaning
This discourse carries a deep lesson about equality and compassion in the Sangha. Although the Vinaya Piṭaka contains detailed regulations about outward form, the central core remains the mind: dedication to practice, not material appearance.
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