Lzh Sarv Bu Vb Pj 1Sexual Intercourse
Pāli / Sanskrit:Methunadhamma
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METHUNADHAMMA SUTTA - TEACHING ON SEXUAL INTERCOURSE
Background
Methunadhamma (Pāli: mēthuna-dhamma, “matters relating to sexual conduct”) is an important part of the Vinaya Piṭaka, especially in the Pātimokkha, the basic ethical code of bhikkhus. This discourse arises from the historical context in which Buddha Gotama established the Sangha and needed to set forth clear rules to protect the spirit of practice of his disciples.
In the Theravāda tradition, the Vinaya Piṭaka is regarded as the foundation for the difficult life of those who go forth to practice. Methunadhamma is not a title for arbitrary condemnation or rebuke, but a transparent instruction about actions that can disturb the mind and obstruct progress on the path to awakening.
Main Content
Methunadhamma in the Pātimokkha centers on Pārājika, offenses entailing expulsion from the Sangha. Specifically, this discourse states that any monk who engages in sexual intercourse (methunadhamma) with any person, whether male or female, violates the first rule of the Pārājika and must be permanently expelled.
This regulation is not because of a judgment upon human sexuality, but because of deep practical reasons: first, sexual desire creates attachment (taṇhā, craving) and covers wisdom (āvaraṇa). Second, a monk has vowed to live in complete celibacy (brahmacariya), and that vow is the basis for the community’s trust. Third, sexual conduct within the monastic community can disturb the system of collective practice.
This discourse understands “sexual conduct” to include every form of sexual intercourse, whether voluntary or forced, whether the first time or repeated. It is an absolute rule, with no exception or mitigation.
Practical Meaning
For those who practice according to the Theravāda tradition, Methunadhamma is not merely a punitive rule, but a lesson in self-awareness.
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