Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Dh Pc 32Hitting

The Pahāra Discourse (Striking a Person)

Background

The Pahāra rule is recorded in the Vinaya Pitaka of the early tradition, specifically in the Pātimokkha Saṃvara, the vows of protection. This rule arose from the event of a bhikkhu striking another person, causing a serious offense against the harmony of the Sangha. The Buddha immediately established a rule to prevent acts of physical violence and protect the dignity of the community of practice.

In the context of the Vinaya Pitaka, Pahāra is not merely a prohibition against striking; it is also an expression of removing anger (dosa) from the mind of a monastic. This is a foundation of ethical conduct (sīla) in the Buddha's teaching, where respect and compassion are core values.

Main Content

The Pahāra rule states that a bhikkhu or bhikkhunī must not strike any person, whether a learned person or one outside the religion. The act of striking includes the use of bodily force or any physical harm. If a bhikkhu commits this act intentionally, he commits a Pārājika or Saṅghādisesa offense, depending on the degree, requiring repentance or public recording before the Sangha.

The text emphasizes that restraint from violent actions is the sign of a true practitioner. Even when provoked or criticized, a monastic must maintain purity of mind and self-control. Buddhism regards self-control as true strength, greater than physical power. This reflects the teaching of ahiṃsā, non-harming, a basic principle in Buddhist ethics.

Violation of this rule is seen as an active expression of anger and a lack of respect for the boundaries of the religious community. Therefore, the violator must undergo a process of public confession (pabbajjaniya) in order to restore personal honor and maintain confidence in the Sangha.