Mi Kd 1Going Forth

The Pabbajjā Khandhaka Sutra — On Going Forth

Background

Pabbajjā Khandhaka, the Khandhaka on Going Forth, is the first section of the Mahāvagga, the "Great Section" in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pali Canon. This sutra records events related to the emergence and development of the Sangha, the community of those who went forth according to Buddhism.

This section mainly focuses on the account of how the first disciples of the Buddha Śākyamuni left the household life in order to study the Dharma. It describes in detail the process of "going forth" (pabbajjā), from the decision to renounce the world to the actual act of leaving home in order to study the Dharma under the Buddha's guidance. This sutra is not only a historical record, but also the legal basis for ordination customs in the Early tradition.

Main Content

The Pabbajjā Khandhaka recounts the earliest stages of the Sangha, beginning from the Buddha's awakening and his acceptance of the first disciples. The sutra records that those who wished to follow Buddhism had to express their intention to go forth clearly and sincerely. They cut off their hair, wore saffron-colored or brown robes, abandoned worldly pleasures, and committed themselves to living according to the precepts (sīla) taught by the Buddha.

This sutra describes in detail the conditions and rites of the going forth process. One who goes forth must show reverence for the Buddha and the Dharma, and abandon desires and fears related to the world. In particular, the Pabbajjā Khandhaka emphasizes the importance of will (chanda), that is, the genuine determination to choose the path of practice.

This section also records basic rules on how bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs must practice, from daily actions to fundamental ethical principles. It forms the legal foundation for the organization and activity of the Sangha throughout Buddhist history.