Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Dh Sk 106Holding a Sword
Pāli / Sanskrit:Na khaḍgapāṇa
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The Discourse on Holding a Sword (Na khaḍgapāṇa)
Background
The Discourse on Holding a Sword belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, which sets forth the rules of discipline within Theravāda Buddhist teaching. It is recorded among the codes governing the deportment, appearance, and conduct of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs within the monastic community.
The original context of this discourse relates to a specific event during the lifetime of Śākyamuni Buddha. At a certain point, there were bhikkhus who failed to uphold the noble standard of conduct taught by the Buddha. They engaged in the practice of carrying dangerous implements or performed actions unbefitting the station of one who has gone forth from the household life. In particular, the holding of a sword—a symbol of violence and worldly power—stands in complete opposition to the spirit of loving-kindness (Mettā) enjoined by the Dharma.
The Buddha, out of his wisdom and compassion for the monastic community, set forth specific rules to instruct his disciples in right action and right intention.
Main Content
The Discourse on Holding a Sword prohibits bhikkhus from carrying a sword or any sharp weapon whatsoever. This is not a restriction without purpose; rather, it is a profound principle concerning the very nature of monastic virtue.
The deeper reasons for this rule rest upon three aspects: first, a sword is an instrument for causing harm and taking life, directly transgressing the precept of refraining from the destruction of life (Pānātipātā veramaṇī)—the most fundamental of the five precepts (Pañcasīla). Second, the act of bearing a sword manifests a state of mind rooted in fear, ill-will, or the desire to protect the worldly self, all of which are unwholesome mental states contrary to the goal of awakening. Third, the image of a bhikkhu holding a sword would create an unfavorable impression upon the lay community, thereby damaging the faith and dignity of the Saṅgha.
This rule was likewise extended to encompass other dangerous implements.
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