Lzh Mi Bi Vb Pc 179Bowing to Monks
Pāli / Sanskrit:Bowing to monks
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Sutra Commentary: Bowing to Monks (Vinaya Piṭaka)
Context
In the Theravada tradition of the Buddha-Dharma, the Vinaya Piṭaka is the collection of monastic regulations intended to maintain order, discipline, and harmony within the Sangha. The text “Bowing to Monks” (Pācittiya 179) records a rule concerning the way practitioners express respect and humility within the Buddhist community.
The Buddha established these rules in specific circumstances when he saw improper occurrences within the Sangha. Each rule (pātimokkha) has an originating story, showing his wisdom in instructing his disciples. This code is not an arbitrary imposition, but a set of practical teachings for nurturing ethical and spiritual qualities.
Main Content
The rule concerning “bowing to monks” is an expression of training discipline related to the manner of showing respect. In the Theravada tradition, bowing in reverence (añjali) is regarded as an act expressing humility, respect, and open acknowledgment of the status of the person being honored within the monastic community.
Pācittiya 179 emphasizes that bhikkhunīs (nuns) or bhikkhus (monks) need to be steadfast in showing respect sincerely and without deceit. The act of bowing is not an outward display for seeking praise or advantage, but must arise from a genuinely respectful mind. If someone bows with the intention of pretending or of concealing impure intentions, this violates the spirit of the rule.
This rule is connected with the principle of “sīla” (virtue) in the Buddha-Dharma, where truth (sacca) is the foundation of every action. A true practitioner must allow their actions to reflect a pure intention, not using rituals to conceal shortcomings or to seek personal benefit.
Practical Meaning
The teaching on bowing in reverence is not merely external, but is also connected with spiritual development. Respect (pasada). (The Vietnamese source stops here.)
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