Lzh Mu Bi Pm Sk 20Na paryastikākṛta pravekṣyāma

Exposition of the Na paryastikākṛta pravekṣyāma Sutta

Background

This text belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, the collection regulating the discipline and way of life of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs in the Buddhist community. The title “Na paryastikākṛta pravekṣyāma” means “One should not enter with the body turned sideways” or “One should not enter a port in a contorted posture.” This is an admonition in the Patimokkha of the bhikkhus, reflecting early Buddhism’s attention to bodily decorum and conduct in daily activities.

The deeper context of the Vinaya rules arises from specific situations in the life of the Buddha. When disciples committed some unsuitable act, the Buddha would give a corresponding admonition, and from this the disciplinary rules were formed. This text is no exception; it reflects a practical situation in which bhikkhus behaved inappropriately while entering places such as ports, markets, or public areas.

Main Content

This rule forbids bhikkhus from entering public places or crowded locations, especially water ports, with the body in a contorted, sideways, or careless posture. Specifically, a bhikkhu must maintain an upright posture, stand straight, and should not bend the body crookedly or perform unusual gestures that attract unnecessary attention from people.

This reflects the principle of Sila (discipline) concerning dignity (sāṇḍa) and self-control (dama). A bhikkhu who practices according to the Buddha’s Dharma must always be mindful of every action, every step, every manner of conduct. This is not for personal benefit, but out of respect for the religious community and the solemn rites of the Dharma. When present in public, the bhikkhu represents the Buddha’s Dharma and therefore must behave appropriately.

This rule is also connected with the concept of “Iriyāpatha” (the four postures) — the four main bodily postures: walking, standing, sitting, and lying down.