Lzh Mi Bi Vb Pc 71Masturbation
Pāli / Sanskrit:Talaghātaka
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EXPLANATION OF THE TALAGHĀTAKA SUTTA
On Masturbation
Background
The Talaghātaka Sutta (Pāli: tala = palm of the hand; ghāta = striking, act) is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the collection of Pātimokkha regulations for bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs. The Vinaya Piṭaka is the library of ethical law of Theravāda Buddhism, recording the rules of life and conduct set forth by the Buddha to protect the spirit of practice and maintain the purity of the Sangha.
This discourse was formed in the context of the Buddha's governance of the growing Sangha community. When he found actions that harmed the spirit of practice or affected the honor of the community, he set forth corresponding regulations. The establishment of these rules was not for punishment, but to guide the disciples toward unified conduct, preserve purity, and develop spiritually.
Main Content
According to the Pāli Vinaya tradition, the act of masturbation (Talaghātaka) is identified as a Pācittiya violation if it does not lead to ejaculation, or as Saṅghādisesa if there is ejaculation, depending on the degree and specific circumstances. For bhikkhus, any act of self-stimulation of the genitals for the purpose of seeking private gratification is forbidden.
The reason for the prohibition is not that the act itself is considered "sinful" in any transcendent sense, but that it directly conflicts with the three basic aims of the life of a bhikkhu:
First, this act creates a strong attachment to sensual pleasure (kāma-sukha), contrary to the ideal of relinquishing cravings and sensual desires.
Second, it weakens the power of mental concentration (samādhi) and clarity (paññā), two essential factors in the practice of the path.
Third, this action harms the honor and trust that the Sangha builds within the community.
Practical Meaning
The regulations in this discourse are not only for those who have gone forth.
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