Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Dh Pc 60Leaving Without Giving Consent

Exposition of the Chandaṁadatvāgamana Sutta

(Leaving Without Asking Permission)

Background

The Chandaṁadatvāgamana Sutta is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha, the list of 227 rules for bhikkhus. This is one of the normative texts of the early Buddhist Order, where the Buddha and the great disciples established principles for collective practice.

The content of this sutta concerns observance of communal discipline, especially the principle of respect and notification within the bhikkhu community. The historical context shows that, in the early days of the Order, the Buddha had to establish clear rules to maintain harmony and order, thereby helping bhikkhus focus on the practice leading to liberation.

Main Content

The sutta stipulates that when a bhikkhu intends to leave a residence or community, he must clearly inform the other members or those responsible for management. Leaving without asking permission or without notifying others is considered disrespectful toward the Sangha (community) and a violation of the principle of collective harmony.

Specifically, this rule is intended to ensure that:

First, there is no surprise or anxiety in the community when a member disappears. This helps maintain mutual peace of mind and trust.

Second, asking permission reflects respect (sīla) for communal life and for the elders in the Sangha. It is a concrete expression of khanti (forbearance) and mettā (loving-kindness).

Third, this rule prevents unnecessary misunderstandings or suspicions about the motives of the person leaving, thereby protecting the reputation and trustworthiness of the community.

This rule applies to every bhikkhu, without distinction of level of practice or status in the Order. It expresses the principle of equality and fairness in the Dharma.

Practical Meaning

More deeply, the Chandaṁadatvāgamana Sutta teaches us the importance of transparency and honesty in communal relationships.