Lzh Sarv Bu Pm Sk 89Na aśvārūḍhāya

Exposition of the Na aśvārūḍhāya Discourse

Context

The Na aśvārūḍhāya discourse (Pāli: Na assāruḍḍhāya) is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, the collection that sets forth prohibitions and rules of practice for bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs in the Sangha. The title derives from the words "na aśvārūḍhāya" (not to ride a horse), reflecting one of the specific prohibitory rules concerning the actions and way of life of those who have gone forth.

The context in which this discourse arose is connected with events in the Sangha during the Buddha's lifetime. These rules were established not out of oddity, but for practical reasons: to protect the purity of the Sangha, maintain a public moral bearing, and elevate the character of those who had gone forth from worldly affairs.

Main Content

The Na aśvārūḍhāya discourse focuses on preventing bhikkhus from riding horses or other animals under ordinary circumstances. This is understood more broadly: a bhikkhu should not take part in activities that display enjoyment of worldly pleasure, such as riding a horse for recreation or to show strength and status.

However, the Vinaya Pitaka also clearly records exceptions: if a bhikkhu needs to use a horse or another animal for legitimate reasons, such as travel because of illness or extraordinary conditions, this does not constitute an offense. The essential purpose is to restrain the psychology of ambition and pleasure-seeking.

This rule is also connected with the general principle of the Pātimokkha, the fundamental discipline. Each rule is not an arbitrary irrationality, but reflects a deep understanding of human psychology and moral purification. The discourse indicates that ordinary worldly actions may become obstacles on the path of practice leading to arhatship (Arahatta).

Practical Meaning

The meaning of Na aśvārūḍhāya goes far beyond rules taken literally.