San Lo Bu Pm Pc 57Viewing a Military Action

EXPLANATION OF THE UYYODHIKA DISCOURSE (SAN LO BU PM PC 57)

Background

The Uyyodhika discourse belongs to the Vinaya Pitaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, specifically the Suttavibhanga section of the Pātimokkha. These are the basic training regulations that bhikkhus must observe in order to maintain the purity of the Sangha.

The title “Uyyodhika” (from uddhika = military, combat) is connected with regulations concerning participation in military activities, war, or violence. Like all regulations in the Vinaya, this discourse arose from specific cases in monastic life, when the Buddha saw bhikkhus violating the fundamental principles of Buddhism, after which he set forth a rule to restrain them.

The deeper background of this regulation reflects a core principle of Buddhism: respect for life and keeping far from violence. Although they lived in a society where war was common, bhikkhus were still required to maintain a completely different way of life.

Main Content

The Uyyodhika discourse states that bhikkhus must not participate in or directly observe military activities. Specifically, if a bhikkhu goes to watch a battle, combat, or any form of armed conflict with the intention of enjoying or taking pleasure in those violent actions, this is a violation.

The deeper reason for this regulation lies in the first precept (Pañcasīla), not killing. A Buddhist monastery is a place for the gradual practice of removing greed, hatred, and delusion (tanha, dosa, moha), the three root poisons of all suffering. When one observes war or violence, desire is easily stimulated, hatred is nourished, and delusion about violent actions increases. This directly opposes the process of practice.

This rule also protects the honor of the Sangha. When bhikkhus or bhikkhunīs take part in violent activities or delight in them, they lose the respect of the community and weaken the faith of lay followers.