San Mu Bu Pm GBM 2 Sk 21Nolambikayā gamiṣyāma

Explanation of the Nolambikayā Gamiṣyāma Sutta

Context

The Nolambikayā Gamiṣyāma Sutta is a part of the Vinaya Piṭaka in the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. The Vinaya Piṭaka is a collection of rules, regulations, and related stories concerning the discipline of monks (bhikkhu) and nuns (bhikkhunī). It is not merely a set of dry prohibitions; the Vinaya Piṭaka contains profound teachings on psychology, ethics, and flexible practice.

This collection was recorded in the early days of the Sangha, when the Buddha and his disciples were still living. It reflects specific situations, conflicts, and practical questions that bhikkhus encountered in the course of study and practice. The word "Nolambikayā" means "leaving no trace" or "causing no burden," while "gamiṣyāma" means "we shall go." This phrase suggests a spirit concerning the way one gone forth acts: moving lightly, not creating heaviness or causing annoyance.

Main Content

The Nolambikayā Gamiṣyāma Sutta teaches the principle of movement and action for bhikkhus in the community. This is not only about the physical body but also about the state of mind. When a bhikkhu "goes leaving no trace," it means he acts with awakened awareness, leaving behind no annoyance or discord in the Sangha.

According to the spirit of the Theravāda Vinaya Piṭaka, every action of one gone forth affects the community. One who walks too quickly, too slowly, or without attention to those around him may create inconvenience. Conversely, when acting consciously and wisely, the monastic creates a pure and harmonious environment.

Nolambikayā gamiṣyāma is an implicit promise about the way of life of one gone forth: not carrying worries, grudges, or mental burdens. It is the readiness to walk the path of liberation with a mind unstained, not carrying sensual anger or delusion. This is closely related to the concept of "nirvāṇa": the complete extinguishing of craving and clinging.