Lzh Mi Bi Vb Pc 43Disrespect

The Anādariya Scripture (Disrespect)

A Commentary from the Pāli Theravāda Canon

Background

The Anādariya scripture belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition and is found among the rules of practice for monks and nuns. These rules were recorded from occasions when the Buddha and his disciples discussed ways of conduct and harmonious communal living in the religious community.

This scripture revolves around the concept of “anādariya,” provisionally translated as “disrespect” or “negligence,” an attitude of failing to honor, failing to esteem, or disregarding precious things such as the Buddha’s teaching, the monastic Sangha, or instructing teachers. It is not a bodily offense but a mental error, a kind of denial of the value of the Dharma and of guides.

In the context of monastic practice, a disrespectful attitude is regarded as the root of many other afflictions, because it reflects arrogance, conceit, and lack of humility, great obstacles on the path of practice.

Main Content

The scripture makes clear that “disrespect” is expressed through concrete actions in communal life. A nun or bhikkhunī displays anādariya when she disregards the teachings of a venerable teacher, despises the rules of practice, or does not value guidance. In particular, the scripture emphasizes that disrespect toward those of high virtue, such as long-standing renunciants and instructing nuns, is an act destructive to the community.

The rule advises that when one sees in oneself, or in anyone else, an attitude of anādariya, it should be corrected immediately. Disrespect is not a permanent sin; it can be remedied by deeply listening, learning more, and arousing a genuine mind of practice. The scripture emphasizes the role of self-examination and repentance (paṭipadahati).

In the context of the Vinaya Piṭaka, anādariya is also related to acts that violate communal regulations, especially pācittiya offenses requiring confession and connected with communal discipline.