Sarv Kd 10At Campā

Exposition of the Sutta At Campā (Campeyya Khandhaka)

Background

The Campeyya Khandhaka is an important section of the Sarvāstivāda Vinaya, recording rules concerning the practice and daily life of bhikkhus at the city of Campā. In the early Buddhist tradition, “Khandhaka” means “chapters” or “sections of rules,” where detailed instructions are given on the discipline of the monastic community (Sangha).

The city of Campā was one of the important localities in the land of Magadha, where the Buddha once taught. This sutta was recorded to protect the purity of the Sangha, ensuring that bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs follow the principles of communal life, thereby maintaining harmony and unity in the community of practice.

Main Content

The Campeyya Khandhaka mainly presents rules concerning travel, temporary residence, and the daily activities of the Sangha. It discusses specific situations arising from the practice and movement of bhikkhus, including how to handle matters of clothing, food, temporary lodging, and the maintenance of disciplinary cycles during travel.

These rules arose from situations that the Buddha encountered and resolved, and were then accepted and maintained by the Sangha. One important aspect is the guidance on proper conduct when away from one’s formal residence, ensuring that bhikkhus still observe the spirit of the Pātimokkha, the precepts each bhikkhu must keep.

The sutta also addresses principles of appropriateness and flexible adaptation. Although the rules are strict, the Buddha taught that the mind and intention are the foundation, rather than mere adherence to form. Thus the rules in the Campeyya Khandhaka were established to support practice, not to confine it.

Practical Meaning

For an early Buddhist monastic, the Campeyya Khandhaka has profound meaning regarding self-discipline and communal responsibility.