Lzh Mu Bu Vb Sk 35Na gulphe gulpham niṣatsyāma
Pāli / Sanskrit:Na gulphe gulpham niṣatsyāma
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Explanation of the Na Gulphe Gulpham Niṣatsyāma Sutta
Background
This sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, specifically among the rules of discipline (sīla) for bhikkhus. The Vinaya Piṭaka is a collection of rules taught by the Buddha to regulate the communal life of monks and nuns and protect the purity of the Dharma.
The title “Na gulphe gulpham niṣatsyāma” (Pāli equivalent: “Na gulphe gulpham nisīdissāma”) means “We should not sit on the edge of a lake (or bank of water).” This is a rule related to proper conduct and carefulness in protecting the body of the practitioner, especially in situations that may give rise to suspicion or loss of faith among the lay community.
The background for the arising of this rule comes from specific incidents in which bhikkhus committed violations or from situations that could lead to inappropriate actions. The Buddha, with boundless wisdom, established these rules to preserve the solemn Dharma and protect the honor of the Sangha.
Main Content
This rule reminds bhikkhus that they should not sit on the edge of a lake, river, or other bodies of water. The rule is not merely a prohibition, but also reflects a profound principle concerning the operation of the mind and vigilance (sati) in the practice.
Sitting in secluded places near water can create favorable conditions for careless action or give rise to suspicions among the public. In particular, places near water are often locations seldom visited by others and can easily become the setting for improper behavior. In addition, there may be physical danger: an unwary bhikkhu may slip or suffer an accident.
This rule is also intended to protect the honor of the Sangha. The public may misunderstand when seeing monastics sitting in secluded places, and this would diminish faith and respect for the Dharma.
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