Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Dh Pc 158Inviting

Explanation of the Pavārita Discourse (Inviting)

Background

Pavārita, or "Inviting," is a rule in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddha-Dharma tradition. This rule belongs to the Pācittiya (Pa) section, offenses requiring confession, and is recorded in various Vinaya collections of the early Buddhist schools.

The story originates from the time when the Buddha was still living. The Bhikkhus in the Sangha community needed regulations to maintain discipline and the purity of the Order. Pavārita concerns the act of "inviting" or "encouraging" others to perform actions that one does not want to perform directly oneself, or the use of indirect means to achieve a personal aim.

The Buddha laid down this rule to protect the integrity of the Sangha, prevent irresponsible or deceitful actions, and nurture a spirit of straightforward practice without obstruction.

Main Content

Pavārita, translated as "Inviting," provides that a Bhikkhu must not invite or encourage another person, whether another Bhikkhu, a Bhikkhunī, or a layperson, to perform tasks for his own benefit that he himself does not directly perform, if that action is considered inappropriate or contains potential personal benefit.

Specifically, this rule applies to situations in which the Bhikkhu intentionally uses another person as an "intermediary" to obtain what he desires. For example, one must not ask another person to do things one does not dare to do oneself, or use indirect advice to manipulate another person to serve one’s own purpose.

A Pācittiya offense is considered subtler than heavier offenses, but it still requires confession before the Sangha or other Bhikkhus. The offender must sincerely acknowledge the fault and undertake not to repeat it. This is a voluntary mechanism for maintaining purity and protecting the ideal of practice in the Order.

Practical Meaning

Pavārita teaches us a profound lesson about honesty and responsibility in action.