Lzh Mu Bu Vb Pc 55Obstructions

Discourse on Obstructions (Antarāyika)

Background

The Discourse on Obstructions (Antarāyika) belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, within the Vibhaṅga section of the Vinaya Piṭaka. These are regulations concerning actions or conditions that obstruct monks and nuns in practice, preserving humility and diligence in the Sangha.

The term “Antarāyika” means “things that cause obstruction or hindrance.” In the context of Buddhist practice, these obstructions are not grave moral offenses like pārājika or saṅghādisesa, but they are actions or states that weaken discipline, disturb the monastic community, or reflect a lack of respect for the Teaching.

The Vinaya Piṭaka was compiled after the Buddha’s nirvana, based on the instructions he gave throughout forty years of teaching the Buddhadharma. Its purpose is to protect the purity of the Sangha and create favorable conditions for all members to practice according to the Path.

Main Content

The Discourse on Obstructions sets forth actions or behaviors that monks and nuns should avoid because they obstruct the process of practice and communal living. These obstructions include:

First, actions lacking respect toward the Teaching, the Sangha, or elders. These are manifestations of lack of discipline, such as speaking loudly in the monastery, concealing one’s own faults or those of others, or not listening to the guidance of teachers.

Second, aggressive behaviors in the monastic community, such as arguing about the Dharma, causing division among members, or forming factions. Such actions weaken harmony (sāmaggi), an indispensable factor for the Sangha to function effectively.

Third, attitudes of conceit, arrogance, or obstinacy. A practitioner should not believe that he or she has attained high achievements in practice when in fact this is not so, or refuse to correct faults because of excessive pride.