San Asc 4Visitors
Pāli / Sanskrit:Āgantuka
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DISCOURSE ON VISITORS (AGANTUKA SUTTA)
Background
The Agantuka discourse belongs to the Sangiti Sutta (Discourse on the Recitation of the Teachings) in the Vinaya Pitaka of the Theravada tradition, recorded in the Pali Canon. It is part of the regulations and guidance concerning the ethics of monastics (vinaya) for bhikkhus who are visitors or newly come to study the Buddha-Dharma.
The background of the discourse is that Buddha Shakyamuni taught at Jetavana, the Jeta Grove. This discourse addresses the conduct, mental attitudes, and methods of practice that visiting bhikkhus, that is, those newly arrived or not yet familiar with the monastic community, need to understand in order to practice properly and not create trouble for themselves or the community.
Main Content
This discourse teaches that visiting bhikkhus (agantuka bhikkhu) must have five important qualities. First, they must be gentle and approachable, not conflicting or arguing with fellow practitioners. This quality is called sukham viharam, living harmoniously and causing no trouble.
Second, they need to follow the rules of bhikkhu conduct and not slacken in practice because they are considered guests. Discipline and respect for the precepts (sila) are the foundation for being welcomed by the community.
Third, a visitor must know how to listen and learn from the senior bhikkhus there. A humble attitude, ready to receive instruction, is indispensable. The discourse emphasizes that pannatti, acceptance of the community's teaching, will help the visitor adapt quickly.
Fourth, the visitor needs to understand causes and conditions, recognizing that he has come to a place where other bhikkhus are residing and must therefore respect the autonomy of that dwelling. He should not bring habits or practices from his former place without consideration.
Fifth, the visitor must develop the Dharma of araddha viriya, unflagging energy. Even in an unfamiliar and simple place, he must still maintain effort in the practice of meditation (samadhi) and wisdom (panna), so as not to go astray.
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