Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Pc 90Whispering With Monk
Pāli / Sanskrit:Whispering with monk
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SUTTA ON WHISPERING WITH A BHIKKHU
Background
This sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, especially the Pātimokkha section, the fundamental code of the Sangha. It is a prohibition (sikkhāpada) related to conduct between bhikkhus in the community of practice.
According to tradition, these rules were laid down by the Buddha to maintain discipline and harmony in the Sangha and to protect the honor of the teaching. Each rule has its history of formation (aitihāsa), usually beginning with a specific event in which a bhikkhu committed a violation, after which the Buddha established a rule to restrain that conduct.
The rule “Whispering with a bhikkhu” falls within the category of minor faults (dukkaṭa) or disciplinary violations connected with speech. It reflects early Buddhism’s deep concern for the quality of communication and mutual respect in the Sangha.
Main Content
The specific content of this sutta concerns a bhikkhu speaking “in whispers” (upakucchita) with another bhikkhu. This conduct is regarded as unsuitable because it suggests secret discussion, concealment, or lack of transparency in communication among monastics.
According to the principle of the Vinaya, bhikkhus are encouraged to communicate openly and clearly, avoiding whispered conversations for the following reasons: first, they are a sign of cunning or concealment; second, they may cause other bhikkhus to doubt the trustworthiness of the community; third, they go against the principle of right view (sammā diṭṭhi), clarity and honesty.
This rule also aims to prevent schemes of conflict or the creation of divisions within the Sangha. When a bhikkhu whispers with another, it may create alliances or interest groups within the community, which is contrary to the spirit of the Sangha, where everyone is regarded as equal before the Dharma.
Practical Meaning
Although this is a restraining rule in the Vinaya Piṭaka, its deeper meaning goes beyond ordained monastics.
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