Lzh Mi Bu Vb Pc 64Deception
Pāli / Sanskrit:Mohana
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The Mohana Text: On Deception in the Vinaya Piṭaka
Background
In the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, the Pācittiya section contains rules that, if violated, require one gone forth to confess and make amends. The Mohana text, meaning "confusion, delusion," is found in this body of rules and reflects the deep concern of early Buddhism regarding acts that delude others or conceal the truth.
The background of these rules is connected with historical events in the Sangha. When the Buddha was still alive, corrupt monks attempted to conceal their own faults or those of companions by lying and misleading fellow practitioners. These cases led the Buddha to establish rules in order to maintain cleanliness and integrity in the Sangha.
Main Content
The Mohana rule states: if a monk, clearly knowing that another monk has committed an offense, or knowing that he himself has a fault, intentionally lies or conceals the truth in order to delude others, especially teachers or the community, then this is a violation requiring confession. The specific content of this text has not been fully translated, but the guiding principle is clear: truthfulness (sacca) is the foundation of integrity (brahmacarya).
"Deception" (mohana) here is not only verbal lying, but also includes using actions, gestures, or attitudes to cover over the truth. A monk may conceal his fault by appearing very earnest in practice, or conceal another's fault by remaining silent and not reporting it to the community.
It is important that the Vinaya Piṭaka recognizes that regardless of who is deceived, whether one person or many, the act of concealing the truth remains a violation. Sincerity and transparency within the Sangha are not optional matters but core requirements.
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