Lzh Sarv Bi Vb Sk 53Na vikṣiptikākṛtā pravekṣyāma

Explanation of the Na Vikṣiptikākṛtā Pravekṣyāma Sutta

Background

The Na Vikṣiptikākṛtā Pravekṣyāma Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, within the collection of training rules for bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs. The Vinaya Piṭaka is the ethical foundation of the Dharma in Theravāda Buddhism, clearly indicating actions to be done and not to be done in order to protect concentration and preserve purity in the monastic community.

This sutta was composed in the context of the Buddha and his disciples establishing planned regulations to maintain inner discipline. The title in Sanskrit/Pāli, Na Vikṣiptikākṛtā Pravekṣyāma, carries a meaning connected with “one should not enter with a scattered mind” or “things that should not be done when the mind is not concentrated.” It is part of the teachings on the prerequisites for entering Buddhist practice effectively.

Main Content

The specific content of this sutta has not been fully translated in common materials; however, based on the Vinaya Piṭaka context, it emphasizes the important principle of mental concentration (samādhi) and mental preparation when approaching practices.

According to the Theravāda tradition, the Buddha-Dharma does not permit those with scattered, careless minds or without true intention to enter the path of practice. Practicing the Buddha-Dharma requires determination, dignity, and clear mindfulness (sati). This sutta teaches that in order to enter the monastic community or practice according to the Vinaya, one must have a pure mind, not covered by desire, aversion, or delusion.

This rule protects both new practitioners and the monastic community, ensuring that those who enter have a mind truly directed toward liberation. Those whose minds are scattered, who merely seek material benefit or wish to avoid worldly responsibilities, are not permitted to enter.