San Lo Bu Pm Pc 55Seeing a Mobilized Army

Uyyuttasenā Discourse: Seeing a Gathered Army

Background

The Uyyuttasenā discourse (Pāli: Uyyuttasenā) is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha, the basic code for bhikkhus. This discourse is placed among the regulations concerning appropriate conduct for those gone forth in contexts of contact with the worldly life.

Historical records indicate that in the Buddha’s time, events connected with the military life of kingdoms frequently occurred in regions near monasteries. Armies gathering for battle, parades, or exercises were not rare sights. Bhikkhus, when they had to travel or live near such areas, needed clear guidance on how to conduct themselves in order to protect the spirit of their practice from temptation and restless adventure.

This discourse was therefore formulated to establish principles of action when a bhikkhu witnesses or comes into contact with organized and armed military units. It is a typical example of how the Vinaya addresses practical situations in the life of the early Buddhist community.

Main Content

The specific content of the Uyyuttasenā discourse has not been fully translated in the current material. However, based on the context of the Theravāda Vinaya, discourses in this group usually deal with questions such as:

Is a bhikkhu permitted deliberately to witness or come into close contact with a gathered army? If he encounters one by chance, how should one gone forth behave? What disciplinary rules apply in such circumstances?

According to the general principles of the Vinaya, bhikkhus are encouraged to keep away from sights that may stimulate agitation, leading to mental strain concerning sexuality, violence, or gain. The presence of a mobilized army (uyyuttasenā), with weapons, noise, and an evident martial spirit, clearly conflicts with the settled and quiet state of mind that a monastic needs to cultivate.