Lzh Mi Bu Pm Pc 56Lying Down With a Woman
Pāli / Sanskrit:Mātugāmasahaseyya
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The Discourse on Lying Down with a Woman
Mātugāmasahaseyya - Explanation of the Vinaya Pitaka
Background
This discourse is recorded in the Vinaya Pitaka of the Pāli Canon, specifically in the Pātimokkha, the code for bhikkhus. This is a body of discipline established by the Buddha when he recognized problems arising in the Sangha, the monastic community, concerning contact between male bhikkhus and women. The background for the arising of this discourse is often connected with one or more bhikkhus violating discipline by lying down in the same place with women, which caused concern about the purity and diligence of the Sangha.
This rule reflects the Buddha’s carefulness in maintaining the nature of the monastic life, as well as protecting the honor of the Sangha in the eyes of the public. In the Theravāda tradition, the Vinaya Pitaka is regarded as the foundation of communal discipline, helping monastics maintain a pure mind and focus on practice.
Main Content
The discourse stipulates that a bhikkhu must not lie down in the same place with a woman, or more specifically, must not perform the act of lying down under the same roof or in the same sleeping space. This rule applies even if it is only lying in the same place, even when no improper act occurs. The purpose of the rule is to remove both the opportunity for, and the appearance of, violation.
Within the framework of the Vinaya, this action is classified under Pācittiya or Saṅghādisesa rules, depending on the seriousness and specific circumstances, rules whose violation requires confession or repentance before the Sangha. This rule is not only intended to prevent improper conduct, but also to protect the trust of the Dharma-learning community toward the Sangha, and to preserve the reputation of Buddhism in society.
Practical Meaning
Although this discourse was established in the context of bhikkhus, it carries profound teaching value for all who follow Buddhism.
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