Lzh Sarv Bu Pm 2 Pc 71Travelling With Thieves
Pāli / Sanskrit:Theyyasattha
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Theyyasattha Sutta: Travelling with Thieves
Background
The Theyyasattha Sutta (Pāli: Theyyasattha) is a regulation in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddha-Dharma tradition. This regulation sets restrictions for bhikkhus concerning travel with people who have intentions to commit wrongdoing. In the historical context of the Buddha Śākyamuni's time, when bhikkhus regularly went on almsround and travelled throughout different regions, choosing companions was an important matter of practice.
The establishment of this regulation arose from specific situations recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, when bhikkhus became involved with people of bad character or improper intentions, thereby affecting the purity of the Sangha community and the reputation of the Buddha-Dharma. This rule reflects a core principle of the Theravāda Vinaya Piṭaka: protecting the inner and outer purity of the practitioner.
Main Content
The Theyyasattha Sutta states that bhikkhus should not habitually travel with people of bad reputation or those with improper intentions, people called "theyyā" (theyyā = thieves or people of doubtful morality). Travelling with such people can create difficulties in practice and harm the reputation of the Sangha.
This regulation is not an absolute prohibition, but a cautionary guideline. If a bhikkhu needs to travel with such people, for example for safety, the important thing is to maintain vigilance and not be influenced by their conduct or improper intentions. The bhikkhu must still strictly observe his own precepts, no matter who accompanies him.
In addition, the Vinaya Piṭaka emphasizes the selection of suitable companions. Bhikkhus should seek companions who have wisdom and morality, who can help one another on the path of practice (kalyana-mitta, good spiritual friends).
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