Lzh Mi Bu Pm Pc 71Hitting

THE PAHĀRA DISCOURSE — THE SPIRIT OF DISCIPLINE IN PRACTICE

Background

The Pahāra discourse (Pāli: pahāra, meaning "hitting" or "striking") is recorded in the Vinaya Pitaka of the Theravāda tradition, specifically in the Patimokkha Saṃvara, the code governing the Sangha community. It is not an independent sermon, but a detailed rule, reflecting real situations that occurred in monastic communities during the Buddha’s time.

The discourse was formed from specific stories: when disciples of the Buddha disobeyed discipline or behaved improperly, the Buddha established rules to protect the purity of the Sangha and maintain harmony in the community. Pahāra, the act of striking or attacking a bhikkhu, is a serious violation, considered a Pācittiya or Saṃghādisesa offense depending on degree and context.

Main Content

This rule affirms that a bhikkhu or bhikkhuni is not permitted to strike another person, including actions such as pushing, slapping, or physical assault. This behavior is regarded as a serious violation because it directly contradicts the spirit of loving-kindness (mettā) and compassion (karuṇā), two of the four immeasurable states that Buddhist practitioners should cultivate daily.

The Pāli text clearly states that if a monastic strikes another person with the hand, foot, or any object, that action is an offense. Even small actions such as forceful pointing are taken seriously. The basic principle is this: a bhikkhu must preserve dignity and must not use violence in any form. If a dispute arises, it must be handled through dialogue, the intervention of elders, or the decision of the Sangha community, never through force.

The rule also distinguishes between degrees of violation. If the action is performed unintentionally or in legitimate self-defense, for example, against an attacker, the circumstances may be considered lighter. However, if it is an intentional action to punish or express anger, it is a significant fault.