San Sarv Bu Pm Finot Pc 71Travelling With Thieves

Theyyasattha Discourse: Travelling with Thieves

Background

Theyyasattha (Pāli: theyyā = thief; sattha = journey) is a disciplinary clause in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, especially related to the Pātimokkha, the basic monastic code. This discourse arises from real situations the Buddha encountered while regulating the conduct of monastics in the course of propagating the teaching.

The historical context shows that, during the Buddha's time, monastics often had to pass through wild regions where robbers and thieves abounded. The issue raised was whether a monastic should travel with such people, or, if compelled to do so, what ethical principles must be followed in order not to violate the discipline.

Main Content

In Theyyasattha, the Buddha instructed monastics that if they must travel with thieves or suspicious persons, they must observe the principle of vigilance and not be drawn into their unlawful activities. In particular, monastics must:

First, maintain clear awareness (sampajañña) of their own nature and intentions. They must not participate in any act of theft or violence, whether under pressure or in isolation.

Second, maintain mindfulness (sati) of the Buddha's teachings. When with such people, monastics must remember that they have gone forth for the purpose of liberation from suffering, not to participate in immoral activities.

Third, if possible, they should find a way to separate from such persons wisely and safely, using skillful means (upāya) to avoid harmful developments.

This rule also reflects an important principle of Buddhism: practitioners should not intentionally harm others, but also should not allow themselves to be drawn into harmful activities. This is a balance between compassion and the protection of one's moral health.