Lzh Mi Bi Pm Pc 43Disrespect

Anādariya Sutta: On Lack of Respect

Background

The Anādariya Sutta (Lack of Respect) is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha Saṁvara, one of the most basic texts of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. This sutta records training rules that help monastics maintain harmony and respect within the Sangha community.

In the historical context, the Buddha established these codes to guide his disciples in developing a stronger spirit of discipline and reverence. Anādariya, from the elements anan (not) and ādariya (respect), clearly indicates a negative quality to be avoided in the shared life of the Sangha. This is not a doctrinal discourse, but a rule of conduct, reflecting the Buddha’s deep understanding of human psychology and the needs of the community.

Main Content

Lack of respect (anādariya) is regarded as conduct harmful to harmony in the Sangha. The sutta lays down that monastics should not show disrespect, contempt, or refusal to accept instruction from senior monastics (theras), those with sufficient years of training and experience. This does not include reasonable occasions when discussion or clarification is needed, but specifically refers to contemptuous, rude, or unjustified refusal.

The specific content of this sutta concerns the building of a culture of respect based on the understanding that: (1) respect is the foundation of communal harmony; (2) those with more experience in practice are worthy of being listened to; (3) a contemptuous attitude divides the community and obstructs the individual’s spiritual development.

This rule reflects the principles of pīti (reverence) and mettā (loving-kindness) emphasized by the Buddha. Maintaining respect helps avoid useless disputes, protects disciples from arrogance, and creates favorable conditions for collective practice.