San Lo Bi Vb Pc 101Adeśitaśikṣā

Explanation of the Adeśitaśikṣā Scripture

Context

Adeśitaśikṣā (Pāli: Adeśitaśikkhā), provisionally translated as "Instruction Not Yet Given," is a rule in the Pātimokkha within the Theravāda Vinaya Piṭaka. This scripture is listed among regulations concerning the conduct of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs, intended to protect the Sangha from abusive or careless actions.

The historical context of this rule arose from specific situations in the life of the Sangha during the Buddha's time. As the Sangha developed, newly gone-forth persons sometimes had not yet been fully instructed in the principles of practice. This led to actions that were not in keeping with the spirit of awakening. Therefore, the Buddha and the Sangha established clear rules to ensure that all disciples were properly guided before acting independently.

The Adeśitaśikṣā rule reflects a basic principle of Theravāda Buddhism: care, guidance, and responsibility toward those newly entering the Sangha. It is not an unreasonable prohibition, but an expression of compassion and wisdom in governing a community of practice.

Main Content

This rule stipulates that bhikkhus or bhikkhunīs who have not been clearly instructed (deśitaśikṣā) by senior teachers or authorized persons should not perform certain actions without guidance. The phrase "Adeśitaśikṣā," "not yet instructed," is the key to understanding this rule.

The meaning of the rule is this: a newly gone-forth person must receive clear instruction in the rules of conduct before being able to act independently. This includes matters such as how to use monastery property, how to behave toward those outside the Sangha, how to practice the Pātimokkha rules, and how to interact with other members of the Sangha.

According to the Pāli tradition, "instruction" (deśitaśikkhā) is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process.