Lzh Mi Bi Pm Pc 46An Invitation for Four Months
Pāli / Sanskrit:Catumāsappaccayapavāraṇā
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The Sutta on the Invitation for Four Months (Catumāsappaccayapavāraṇā)
Background
The Sutta on the Invitation for Four Months is an important regulation within the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. This regulation arose from the practical circumstances of monastics in early Buddhism, when monks were required to observe rules governing residence and conduct in order to maintain communal discipline. Catumāsappaccayapavāraṇā means "an invitation with the condition of four months" — a formal declaration by which a bhikkhu or bhikkhunī announces that he or she will be absent from the monastic community for a period of four months.
The historical context of this regulation is connected to the monsoon season in India (Vassa), during which monastics would ordinarily gather at monasteries to maintain communal practice together. In exceptional circumstances, a bhikkhu might need to temporarily leave the community for legitimate reasons. This regulation sets forth the proper procedure by which such an intention is announced in a solemn manner.
Main Content
The sutta stipulates that when a bhikkhu intends to be absent from the monastic community for four months or more, he must perform the "invitation" (pavāraṇā) properly before the entire Sangha. This act is not a private request for permission, but a public and solemn declaration, expressing respect for monastic discipline and the unity of the Sangha.
Specifically, the bhikkhu must clearly state the reason for his absence, specify the exact duration (four months), and, if possible, designate another bhikkhu as a representative or as one who will report on the situation upon his return. This ensures that the absence does not disrupt the practice activities of the community, while also demonstrating the individual's transparency and accountability toward the Sangha.
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