San Mu Bu Pm GBM 3 Sk 13Not Noisy

The Appasadda Discourse (Not Noisy)

Background

The Appasadda discourse is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, a key part of the Pāli Canon in the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. The Vinaya Piṭaka is not merely a collection of formal rules, but a complete system of training for building ethics and consciousness within the monastic community. This discourse arose from the historical context while the Buddha was still living, in order to address practical problems arising in the communal life of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs. The word “Appasadda” (appasaddā) literally means “not noisy, little sound,” reflecting a basic principle of quiet and respectful living in the Sangha.

In the context of early monasteries, unnecessary noise from daily activities, such as loud flowing water, showy conversation, or hurried footsteps, not only disturbed those who were meditating but also reflected the unsettled mind of the one making the noise. Therefore, this discourse is presented as guidance for building a pure environment of practice and nurturing a clear quality of mind.

Main Content

The Appasadda discourse stipulates that those gone forth must maintain quiet in daily activities. This includes keeping the voice gentle, moving slowly, and being prepared when using water or implements so as to avoid sudden noise. Especially when others are meditating or practicing the Dhamma, one’s actions should be restrained and should not cause disturbance.

This principle is not merely a mechanical rule of conduct, but deeply reflects an ethical principle: respect for the merit of others. When we preserve quiet, we protect the collective environment of practice. This is also closely related to the five faculties (pañcindriyāni): faith (saddhā), energy (viriya), mindfulness (sati), concentration (samādhi), and wisdom (paññā). A quiet mind is a necessary condition for these faculties to develop.