Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Pc 143Departing Without Taking Leave
Pāli / Sanskrit:Anāpucchāpakkamana
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Explanation of the Anāpucchāpakkamana Sutra
The Vinaya Piṭaka — Theravāda Tradition
Background
The Anāpucchāpakkamana Sutra (Departing Without Taking Leave) is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, the discipline basket of the Theravāda Buddhist canon. The background for this rule arises from events that occurred in the Sangha when the Buddha was still in the world. Bhikkhus often left the Sangha without informing others, so their teachers and companions did not know where they had gone, whether they were well or not, or whether there was some problem requiring support. This situation caused worry, disorder, and a lack of respect in the monastic community.
The Buddha saw that leaving without asking permission or giving notice was an unwholesome act (akusala), not in accord with the spirit of common practice in a Sangha. Therefore, he established a monastic training rule (śikṣapada) to regulate this conduct, in order to maintain discipline, mutual respect, and shared care within the community.
Main Content
The rule on “Anāpucchā Pakkamana,” leaving without asking permission, was set forth to forbid bhikkhus from leaving the Sangha or departing from a shared residence without first asking permission or informing other bhikkhus, especially those in charge or close companions in practice.
According to the Vinaya, a bhikkhu should approach another monastic or those with responsibility, clearly state the purpose, destination, and expected time of return. This act is not merely a formal courtesy but expresses respect for the Sangha and mutual care within the monastic community. If a bhikkhu does not follow this rule and simply leaves silently and carelessly, he violates a rule of practice, thereby creating karmic consequences and being counted among those whose conduct is not approved by the Sangha.
This rule also applies to residence within monasteries or shared places of practice. If a bhikkhu wishes to leave the monastery, even temporarily, he needs to give notice. This creates clarity, safety, and responsibility within the community.
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