Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Dh Pc 114Nānuśāset
Pāli / Sanskrit:Nānuśāset
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The Nānuśāset Discourse — An Explanation of the Vinaya Piṭaka
Background
The Nānuśāset discourse (Pāli: Nānuśāset, meaning “teachings not asked for”) appears in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Early Buddhist tradition, specifically in the Pātimokkha, the basic legal code of the Sangha. It is a rule (Pācittiya) in the class of lighter offenses, yet it still requires confession (paṭidesanā).
The background for the arising of this rule concerns the attitudes and conduct of bhikkhus within the community of practice. The Buddha established such rules not to constrain, but to nurture a mind of discipline and respect within the Sangha. The Vinaya Piṭaka is the first step on the path of practice, the ethical foundation upon which wisdom and concentration are built.
Main Content
The Nānuśāset rule states that a bhikkhu should not teach the Dharma to another bhikkhu without first being asked or requested by that person. That is, one should not “on one’s own initiative” (anānuśāset) expound, instruct, or discuss the Dharma without the consent of the recipient. This is a matter of respect and humility in sharing knowledge of the Buddha’s teaching.
Specifically, if a bhikkhu wishes to teach or explain scripture, Vinaya studies, or matters related to the Buddha’s Dharma to another bhikkhu, the teacher should ask permission or wait for the other to show a wish to learn. A spontaneous act, often and sometimes even coercive or provocative in character, would violate this rule.
A violation of Nānuśāset is a Pācittiya, an offense requiring public confession before the Sangha or before a competent bhikkhu. The purpose of this rule is to build an environment of practice where all members are respected as persons capable of self-determination, and where the sharing of Dharma takes place voluntarily, without coercion.
Practical Meaning
The Nānuśāset discourse teaches us that the transmission of the Buddha’s Dharma should never be carried out with an imposing or self-initiated attitude.
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