Lzh Sarv Bu Pm 2 Pc 53Lying Down With One Not Fully Ordained

Anupasampannasahaseyya Sutta (Lying Down with One Not Fully Ordained)

Background

This sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, specifically in the Pātimokkha, the basic code governing the life of monks and nuns. The sutta is recorded with the designation Lzh Sarv Bu Pm 2 Pc 53, showing that this is a rule, either pārājika or pācittiya, in the monastic code.

In its historical context, the Buddha established regulations on the way of life of bhikkhus in order to protect the purity of the Sangha, prevent actions that could cause loss of public trust, and create an environment favorable for practice. The rule on lying down together with those not fully ordained (anupasampanna, not formally admitted to full ordination) belongs within this network of restraints.

The person “not fully ordained” here refers to individuals who have not undergone the formal act of full ordination, including novices (sāmaṇera), people studying the Buddhadharma but not yet fully admitted, or outsiders. This distinction is very important because it relates to the nature of the Sangha as a regulated community of practice.

Main Content

The Anupasampannasahaseyya rule prohibits bhikkhus from lying down in the same bed or sleeping space with those who are not fully ordained. This act is regarded as a pācittiya offense, a transgression requiring confession and acts of resolve for purification.

The characteristic of this rule is that it is not merely about a physical act, but also concerns protecting the honor of the Sangha and maintaining clear boundaries between those who have formally committed themselves to Buddhist practice and those who have not yet entered this path. Lying down together is understood as sharing the same bed or private sleeping area, something that could give rise to suspicion or loss of trust in the community.