Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Dh Pc 167Leaving Monastery After Sunset
Pāli / Sanskrit:Leaving monastery after sunset
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THE DISCOURSE ON LEAVING THE MONASTERY AFTER SUNSET
Background
This discourse is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha section, the list of training rules that bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs must observe. It is one of the essential regulations given by the Buddha to the Sangha, intended to maintain discipline, harmony, and conditions for safe meditative practice.
The background for the arising of this rule came from the practical needs of the early monastic community. Monasteries needed to be protected not only in terms of property and security, but also with regard to the peace of mind of those who remained. Leaving the monastery after sunset (in the evening) could easily cause anxiety for the Sangha and might interrupt the meditation of those practicing. Moreover, an unreported absence could lead to confusion or unforeseen incidents.
Main Content
This rule provides that a bhikkhu should not leave the monastery after sunset, that is, after the sun has gone down, without a valid reason and without informing the supervising teachers or the elders in the Sangha.
The Buddha formed this rule based on the principles of "not harming others" (ahiṁsā) and "respecting the peace of mind of the Sangha community." When a bhikkhu leaves suddenly or secretly after sunset, this may cause others to worry about his safety, or create an opportunity for misunderstandings about improper conduct.
The penalty for violating this rule is a Pācittiya offense (Pāc 167), a light offense but one that must be confessed before another bhikkhu. It is not a grave offense like Pārājika or Saṅghādisesa, but it reflects the Buddha’s attention to disciplinary details connected with harmonious communal living.
Practical Meaning
The deeper meaning of this rule goes far beyond formal restrictions. It teaches us about mutual respect, responsibility in community, and transparency in personal actions.
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