Lzh Sarv Bu Pm 2 Sk 91Na kaṁbhākṛtasya

An Interpretation of the Na Kaṁbhākṛtasya Sutta

Background

The Na Kaṁbhākṛtasya Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka in the early tradition of the Buddha-Dharma, and consists of regulations for training the body (kāya-saṃvara) and speech (vācī-saṃvara) of monks. The Vinaya Piṭaka is not merely a set of dry prohibitions, but the Dharma framework for the life of the awakened community, reflecting the Buddha’s compassion and wisdom in establishing the codes of discipline (Pātimokkha).

The title “Na Kaṁbhākṛtasya” means “Not done by the hand,” referring to actions not performed through active intention or volition (cetanā). In the context of monastic practice, this is an important issue related to training rules (sikkhāpada) and the assessment of whether or not there has been a violation.

Main Content

This sutta deals with ambiguous cases in the practice of the Vinaya. Specifically, it addresses situations in which an action occurs without the monk actively performing it or without clear intention. For example, if a monk unintentionally drops something, or speaks words he did not intend, does that action constitute a violation of the rule?

The basic principle laid down by the Buddha is: intention (cetanā) is the root of karma. In Theravāda Buddhism, action is evaluated on the basis of intention, not merely by its outward result. Therefore, actions without intention, or not governed by clear awareness, generally do not constitute serious violations.

However, the sutta also emphasizes that a monk must always be alert and careful (ātāpī, sampajañña). Unintentional conduct must not be used as an excuse for laxity in practice. Monks are required to develop balanced attention (mindfulness) so as to minimize unconscious actions that violate the discipline.

Practical Meaning

The Na Kaṁbhākṛtasya Sutta teaches us that true morality lies in intention and alertness. This is an important principle not only for monastic practice but also for lay life.