Lzh Mu Bi Pm Pc 127Going to the Instruction
Pāli / Sanskrit:Ovādūpasaṅkamana
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Scripture on Going to Seek Instruction (Ovādūpasaṅkamana)
Background
The Ovādūpasaṅkamana scripture, “Going to Seek Instruction,” belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, where the regulations for the communal life of the Sangha are recorded. This scripture is closely connected with the ethical foundation of the Buddhist Sangha, as it emphasizes the responsibility of bhikkhus to seek instruction from the foremost members of the community.
The historical background shows that, in the early period, new bhikkhus or those with questions about the Teaching needed to approach abbots, elders, or those recognized as having deep understanding of the Dharma. This was not arbitrary, but a practice encouraged by the Buddha in order to ensure the purity of the Sangha and the continuity of the Teaching.
Main Content
The scripture states clearly that bhikkhus, especially those newly entered into the Sangha or lacking experience, should actively seek instruction (ovāda) from senior ones. Ovāda here is not simply teaching, but also includes specific guidance in morality (sīla), concentration (samādhi), and wisdom (paññā), the three pillars of Buddhist practice.
The act of “going to seek” (upasaṅkamana) implies humility, entrusting oneself to the understanding of the teacher, and readiness to transform oneself. The scripture does not encourage conceit or the assumption that one can fully understand the Teaching by oneself without guidance from the elders.
Another important aspect is that this process protects the integrity of the Sangha. When members voluntarily seek instruction in the proper way, it helps prevent misunderstandings, deviations, or the spread of practices not approved by the Buddha. It is also a way of showing respect for the Three Jewels, the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha, through concrete action.
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