Lzh Mi Bu Pm Sk 100Climbing Tree Higher Than a Person
Pāli / Sanskrit:Na sādhikapauruṣa
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Sutta on a Tree Higher Than a Person by One Measure
Background
This sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, the section recording the rules of training and discipline in the Sangha. In the Theravāda tradition, the Vinaya Piṭaka is the foundation protecting the purity of the Sangha, helping disciples maintain a pure mind and focus on virtuous conduct.
The sutta “Na sādhikapauruṣa,” a tree higher than a person by one measure, is taught in the context of the Blessed Buddha instructing his disciples about actions related to trees and nature. This is a concrete example of how disciples in training should observe ethical discipline, not only in major actions but also in small details of daily life.
Main Content
This sutta concerns climbing a tree higher than a person by one measure (sādhikapauruṣa), with the standard of measurement based on a person’s height. The issue discussed is whether doing this violates the rules of training. The Blessed Buddha taught that bhikkhus must be careful with actions that may cause harm, whether unintentionally or intentionally.
In Buddhist thought, trees are regarded as living things that should be protected. Climbing a tall tree may damage the tree, weaken it, or endanger the practitioner himself. Therefore, the Buddha taught that this action should be avoided, not because of supernatural reward or punishment, but because it violates the principle of Ahiṃsā, non-harming.
The sutta may note exceptions or specific situations in which this action is necessary for survival or urgent safety, but in general, carefulness and respect for nature are the central themes.
Practical Meaning
The profound meaning of this sutta lies in the way the Blessed Buddha guides his disciples to develop a comprehensive consciousness of discipline.
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