Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Sk 56Na pāde pādam niṣatsyāma
Pāli / Sanskrit:Na pāde pādam niṣatsyāma
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Exposition of the Na Pāde Pādam Niṣatsyāma Scripture
Background
The scripture "Na pāde pādam niṣatsyāma" (Not placing one foot over another foot) is a rule in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, recorded in the Sanskrit-Sarvāstivāda Vinaya collections. These are rules of conduct established by the Buddha to regulate the character and behavior of bhikkhus, in order to protect purity, respect, and harmony in the community of practice.
The rules in the Vinaya Piṭaka are not mere prohibitions, but practical guidance based on compassion and wisdom. They deeply reflect the purpose of Buddhist practice: to remove greed, hatred, and delusion and move toward liberation. This scripture specifically concerns how bhikkhus interact with one another in narrow spaces, where each action may affect others.
Main Content
The title "Na pāde pādam niṣatsyāma" means: "We should not let one foot rest upon another foot." This arose from a specific situation in which bhikkhus in the monastery, in corridors or narrow spaces, unintentionally or intentionally let their feet touch the feet of others, causing discomfort or disrespect.
This scripture is identified by the Buddha as a Pācittiya (pāṭidesanīya), a type of rule requiring confession when violated. This rule is not merely for reasons of physical hygiene, but because it expresses lack of attention, lack of respect, and lack of mindfulness toward those nearby. In the monastic context, where every action is observed and can become habitual, allowing one’s foot to press upon another’s foot may create tension, loss of trust, or conflict.
The Buddha teaches that bhikkhus should move with full mindfulness and clear comprehension (sampajañña), knowing the position of the body, the surrounding space, and the presence of others. This develops patience, respect (mettā), and carefulness in every small action.
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