Xct Mu Bi Pm Pc 13Evasive Speech
Pāli / Sanskrit:Aññavādaka
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The Sutta on Evasive Speech (Aññavādaka)
Background
The Aññavādaka Sutta is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha, the basic ethical code for all bhikkhus. It is part of the system of teaching concerning misconduct in speech in Buddhism.
The historical background of this sutta arose from practical problems the Sangha encountered in managing internal discipline. When a bhikkhu was accused of violating one of the prohibitions, he might try to avoid responsibility by speaking evasively, denying matters indirectly, or offering untruthful defenses. The Buddha and the senior elders recognized that this kind of conduct harmed integrity and trust within the Sangha, and therefore established this rule.
Main Content
The Aññavādaka Sutta warns against the fault of “evasive speech”: when a bhikkhu is criticized for an act of misconduct but does not acknowledge it straightforwardly, instead using clever words, circular reasoning, or complete denial. This is regarded as an unwholesome act that weakens the truthfulness of practice.
The rule states that if a bhikkhu speaks dishonestly to conceal or deny actions that have been established in relation to him, this is a fault that must be addressed through the Sangha’s collective process of review. This conduct is considered a Pācittiya offense, a minor offense, yet still a violation of the spirit and ethics of the path.
The essence of the sutta teaches that sincerity and straightforwardness (sacca) are the foundation of Buddhist practice. When a monastic deliberately speaks evasively or deceitfully, he not only violates an external rule, but also loses the opportunity to learn from the mistake and continue practicing authentically. Public acknowledgment is the first step in removing inner obstacles and restoring purity.
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