Lzh Sarv Bu Pm 2 Pc 63Tickling

Aṅgulipatodaka Sutta (The Discourse on Poking with the Finger)

Background

The Aṅgulipatodaka Sutta belongs to the Pātimokkha section, the code of precepts, of the Vinaya Piṭaka, recorded in the Theravāda tradition of the Buddha-Dharma. This discourse arose from an event in the history of the Sangha, when disciples of the Buddha had not yet fully understood the rules of practice concerning respect for senior members of the community.

According to the traditional context, this event occurred when some young bhikkhus, or those not yet deep in spirit, acted disrespectfully or teased elder bhikkhus, those who had long practiced and possessed great merit. The act of "poking with the finger" (Aṅgulipatodaka) is understood as a teasing gesture, an intentional disturbance, or a failure in the reverence that was required; this was regarded as violating the spirit of discipline and training.

Main Content

This discourse concerns a Pātimokkha Sutta, the ethical rules that bhikkhus must observe. Specifically, it relates to respecting bhikkhus who are older or deeper in virtue, and it forbids actions of contempt or neglect of the basic courtesies of practice.

In the Vinaya context, a bhikkhu should not act in a sluggish, teasing, or deliberately disturbing way toward those senior to himself. An act such as "poking with the finger," though small, represents a spirit lacking reverence, lacking mindfulness (Sati), and violating the principle of Metta, loving-kindness. The discourse teaches that every act, small or great, has intention (Cetana) and karmic effect.

The Buddha emphasized that young bhikkhus must learn to restrain body and mind, avoiding impulsive actions or contempt toward those of greater merit. This is not only a matter of formal discipline, but also concerns inner cultivation: developing respect, devotion to the path, and concentration (Samadhi).