San Lo Bu Pm Pc 54Sitting in a Concealed Place

The Rahopaṭicchanna Rule (Sitting in a Concealed Place)

Background

The Rahopaṭicchanna rule belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka in the Pātimokkha of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. The Vinaya Piṭaka is the collection of training rules that bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs must follow, intended to protect the integrity, ethical nature, and unity of the Sangha.

This rule is related to one of the prohibitions in the 227 rules of the Bhikkhu Vinaya. In particular, it deals with actions or situations connected with privacy or concealment in the monastic religious life. The historical background of this rule reflects early Buddhism’s concern with maintaining strict discipline and avoiding activities that might damage the honor of the Sangha.

With the Pāli title "Rahopaṭicchanna" (rahas = secluded place; opaṭicchanna = covered, concealed), this rule instructs bhikkhus not to sit in lonely, hidden places without witnesses, especially with women. This is meant to avoid unnecessary suspicion and protect the honor of both the individual and the Sangha.

Main Content

The Rahopaṭicchanna rule states that bhikkhus must not sit in covered, concealed places without others present as witnesses. This rule applies especially when a bhikkhu is with women who are not close relatives, or in situations that may give rise to rumors or doubts concerning moral conduct.

The reason for this rule is clear: Buddhism emphasizes purity (vijjācaraṇa sampanna) not only in actual action but also in not leaving openings for accusations or suspicion. When a bhikkhu sits in a concealed place with a woman, even if nothing improper occurs, the absence of witnesses may still lead to doubts about the nature of the meeting.