San Sarv Bi Vb Pc 93Cursing Another

Explanation of the Paraabhisapana Discourse (Cursing Another)

Background

The Paraabhisapana discourse (Pāli: Paraabhisapana, provisionally translated as "Cursing another") is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, specifically in the Pācittiya section, offenses of medium gravity related to improper conduct by bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs. These regulations arose from specific situations that occurred in the Sangha community, when the Buddha observed behaviors harmful to the harmony and purity of the Sangha body.

This discourse lies in the context of the Buddha's teachings on speech, the principles of communal life that help practitioners maintain purity of conduct and spirit. The Vinaya Piṭaka is not only a set of mechanical rules, but deeply reflects the principles of compassion, skillful means, and respect in Theravāda Buddhism.

Main Content

The Paraabhisapana discourse regulates the matter that a bhikkhu must not use words of abuse (abhisapana) or curses (sarana) toward another person, whether disciple, fellow practitioner, or anyone else. This act is considered Pācittiya, an offense requiring confession (paccattam deseti) before other monks.

Cursing speech is understood broadly, including angry words, mockery, and the use of harmful language intended to demean or wound another person's mind. Whether a curse is expressed directly or indirectly, with specific or general content, it still violates the spirit of the rule. The compassionate point of this discourse is that it makes no distinction regarding the object: whether one curses a virtuous person or a person lacking virtue, it is still a fault.

This rule arose from the fact that bhikkhus in the community were sometimes stirred in mind and used sharp words to retaliate or express anger. The Buddha taught that a practitioner of the Buddhadharma must go beyond this level of anger and instead cultivate boundless kindness and patience.