Lzh Mu Bi Pm Pc 123Not Ordaining Trainees After Promising

Scripture on Not Ordaining Trainees After Making a Promise

Background

This rule appears in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha, where the prohibitions and regulations of the Buddhist Sangha are recorded. The scripture relates to accepting a female trainee (sikkhamānā) into the life of study and practice within the Buddhist community.

In the context of Theravāda Buddhism, “female trainee” is a designation for women who have decided to practice according to the Buddha-Dharma but have not yet received full established ordination as bhikkhunīs. They observe ten or eight precepts and are regarded as “trainees” (sikkhamānā) with the serious aim of religious practice, preparing for the next step on the path to liberation.

Main Content

The rule “Cīvaradāna-sikkhamānana-vuṭṭhāpana” (Not Ordaining Trainees After Promising) makes clear an important ethical principle in managing the training life of women in monasteries.

This scripture states that if a bhikkhunī or bhikkhu has promised to receive a woman as a female trainee (sikkhamānā), perhaps by providing requisites for practice such as robes (cīvara) or other necessary facilities, then they are not permitted to withdraw that promise. The promise is a legal and ethical commitment within the monastic community.

If a bhikkhu or bhikkhunī has made such a promise but later does not fulfill it, this is considered a violation of the integrity and reputation of the community. It violates the principle of “Ariyavamsa,” the noble ways of the saints, in which truthfulness and keeping promises are foundational.

The purpose of this rule is to protect women who wish to practice from instability and lack of trust. It also emphasizes that those who have trained in the Buddha-Dharma must preserve their noble image and reputation in the community.