Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Dh Pc 1Lying
Pāli / Sanskrit:Musāvāda
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Discourse on Lying (Musāvāda)
Background
The Discourse on Lying is a fundamental rule in the Vinaya Pitaka of the Early Buddhist tradition, belonging to the category of parajika offenses or pacittiya offenses depending on severity. Recorded in Vinaya collections such as the Sarvastivada Vinaya and the Pali Vinaya, this rule clearly states the seriousness of the act of lying, especially for those who have gone forth, vowed celibacy, and undertaken ethical practice.
In the context of the Buddha-Dharma, lying is not only an ordinary ethical violation, but an act that pierces the mind, showing lack of honesty and concealment of the truth. It directly opposes right speech (samma-vaca), an important factor of the Noble Eightfold Path. The Discourse on Lying was established to protect the integrity of the Sangha and maintain the ethical foundation of the monastery.
Main Content
According to traditional Vinaya collections, the act of lying is defined as intentionally stating what is not true, with the intention to conceal or mislead. The Discourse on Lying prohibits bhikkhus from lying in any form, including small lies or lies told for a “good” purpose.
In particular, the discourse clearly states that lying about superhuman attainments is an especially serious violation. If a bhikkhu falsely claims to have attained a meditative state, nirvana, or any sacred attainment that he has not in fact attained, this is an act of the gravest offense and may lead to expulsion from the Sangha.
This rule also applies to other acts of lying, such as lying about vegetarian practice, lying about keeping principles of practice, or lying to avoid responsibility. Any distortion of truth is considered a violation requiring confession and correction.
Practical Meaning
The Discourse on Lying reflects a core principle of Buddhism: truthfulness is the foundation of morality and liberation.
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