Lzh Sarv Bu Vb Sk 56Na pāde pādam niṣatsyāma
Pāli / Sanskrit:Na pāde pādam niṣatsyāma
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Exposition of the Na Pāde Pādam Niṣatsyāma Sutta
Background
The Na Pāde Pādam Niṣatsyāma Sutta (Pāli: Na pāde pādam niṣatsyāma) is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the early Buddhist tradition, specifically in the Bhikkhu Vibhaṅga, the detailed regulations concerning the virtue of monks. This sutta arose from concrete circumstances in the early monastic community, when the Buddha taught his disciples how to conduct themselves properly in the life of practice.
The phrase "Na pāde pādam niṣatsyāma" (literal meaning: "We shall not place one foot upon another foot") reflects a basic principle of the Vinaya Piṭaka: carefulness in each step and each action of one who has gone forth. This is not an unreasonable prohibition, but an expression of awareness of caution and responsibility in every movement.
Main Content
In the Bhikkhu Vibhaṅga, these teachings appear when the Buddha explains conduct that may give rise to minor or more serious offenses (sekkhiya dhammā or pācittiya). The sutta often presents specific situations: monks in the past acted carelessly, and from that the Buddha clearly taught the principle to be followed.
The idea of "not placing one foot upon another foot," or in a deeper sense, not allowing the mind to drift over habits or purposeless actions, means that every step of one who has gone forth should be taken with mindfulness (sati) and right view (sammā-diṭṭhi), serving the goal of attaining nirvana.
The Vinaya Piṭaka here teaches that even movements that are unseen or insignificant should be guided by the mind. This is not out of fear of punishment, but out of respect for the noble Dharma (Dhamma) that the Buddha discovered and taught. When a monk understands this clearly, he will practice willingly without needing to be compelled.
Practical Meaning
Although it is a sutta in the Vinaya Piṭaka, Na Pāde Pādam Niṣatsyāma contains a profound lesson for the daily practice of mindfulness.
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