Lzh Mi Bi Pm Pc 35Obstructions and a Novice
Pāli / Sanskrit:Samaṇuddesaantarāyika
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Sutta Explanation on Obstructions in Teaching a Novice
Background
In the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddha-Dharma tradition, the rule concerning the instruction of a novice (novice — samaṇa, one gone forth who has not yet received bhikkhu or bhikkhunī ordination) is extremely important. The Samaṇuddesaantarāyika Sutta lies within the Pātimokkha-Saṁvara, the disciplinary rules of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs. Specifically, these are pācittiya offenses (offenses requiring confession), minor violations that nevertheless must be corrected.
The background of this sutta arises from concrete situations involving teachers instructing novices. The Buddha perceived that certain circumstances obstructed or were unsuitable in the process of teaching those who were newly training, and so he laid down clear rules to protect both teacher and student and to preserve the purity of practice.
Main Content
The sutta speaks of the obstructions that a teacher must avoid in the course of guiding a novice, that is, a new student who has not yet been formally ordained. These obstructions (antarāyika) include actions or situations that are inappropriate and may affect the process of study and practice.
Specifically, the sutta lays down that a teacher should not instruct a novice in certain circumstances, such as in the absence of suitable witnesses, or under conditions not appropriate to the privacy and safety of both parties. The purpose is not separation, but to ensure clarity and prevent possible misunderstandings.
The sutta also notes that if a teacher does not observe these rules and has contact with a novice under unsuitable conditions, that teacher commits a pācittiya offense, an offense requiring public acknowledgment before the Sangha and the performance of confession.
The emphasis of the sutta is careful consideration between wholehearted instruction and the preservation of ethical boundaries. This is a protection not only of individual honor, but of the entire system of practice.
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