Lzh Sarv Bi Vb Pc 82Talking In the Open

Ajjhokāsasallapana Discourse (Speaking in Public)

Background

Ajjhokāsasallapana is a disciplinary regulation in the Vinaya of the Early Buddhist tradition, found in the Pāc-ti-mok (Pātimokkha), the basic ethical code for bhikkhus. This discourse reflects the Buddha’s effort to build a religious community (Sangha) governed by clear rules, in order to protect the honor of the Three Jewels and prevent conduct inappropriate to the monastic life.

The background for the arising of this regulation concerns bhikkhus who failed to maintain diligence in guarding awareness. Specifically, some bhikkhus spoke openly (ajjhokāsa, in the open air, before everyone) about delicate or inappropriate matters, negatively affecting the image of the Sangha. The Buddha, in order to instruct them and maintain respect, established this rule to remind bhikkhus of the importance of contemplative silence (arañña, living in a quiet place).

Main Content

The ajjhokāsasallapana rule concerns the act of speaking carelessly in public, where others can easily see or hear. What is forbidden is not conversation itself, but the lack of vigilance in choosing the place of conversation and the content of the dialogue.

More specifically, a bhikkhu should not take part in useless conversations, discussions of worldly subjects, or emotionally agitating topics in public places, where non-monastics may hear and misunderstand the purpose of practice. Speaking publicly about unnecessary matters also violates the spirit of brahmacariya (the holy life, the life of purity).

This rule also reflects the principle of “sati” (mindfulness): always being aware of and restraining one’s actions and speech. A bhikkhu should maintain a wholesome bodily attitude and choose quiet places, focusing on the Dharma when asking and answering with fellow practitioners, rather than exposing inappropriate conversations before the public.