Lzh Mu Bi Vb Pc 95Departing Without Taking Leave

Discourse on Leaving Without Asking Permission

Anāpucchāpakkamana - A Clause in the Vinaya Piṭaka

Background

In the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, the Vinaya Piṭaka is the collection of rules of conduct established by the Buddha for the Saṅgha in order to maintain discipline, harmony, and spiritual development. The Anāpucchāpakkamana Sutta (Departing Without Asking Permission) is found in the Pācittiya section, subtle regulations requiring expiation through acknowledgment before the Saṅgha or privately before another bhikkhu.

This rule arose from concrete situations in communal life in monasteries during the Buddha’s time. When the Saṅgha lived together as a community, coordination and communication among members were necessary to maintain order and mutual care. For a bhikkhu to leave without notifying, asking permission, or seeking approval from those responsible was regarded as disrespectful toward the community.

Main Content

The Anāpucchāpakkamana rule states that a bhikkhu should not leave the monastery or residence without first asking permission or notifying the appropriate people. Specifically, a bhikkhu must "ask" (pucchā), that is, seek approval or at least give notice to senior bhikkhus or those managing the place.

When a bhikkhu intends to depart, whether for short or long trips, far or near, he must follow a certain procedure. "Not asking permission" is not merely silence, but also includes concealing one’s intention or leaving secretly. If a bhikkhu violates this rule without a legitimate reason, such as an emergency involving safety, he must perform expiation (pāṭidesanīya), openly acknowledging his fault before the Saṅgha.

This regulation reflects communal awareness and mutual support.