Xct Mu Bi Pm Pc 33Hitting

Pahāra Sutta: A Lesson on Hitting

Background

The Vinaya Piṭaka is a sacred part of the Pāli Canon, recording the rules of conduct established by the Buddha for the community of monks and nuns. The Pahāra Sutta, “Hitting,” appears in the Pātimokkha, the basic code of prohibitions for bhikkhunīs, women gone forth. It reflects the historical context in which the community of nuns was founded by the Buddha, and the early conflicts that he had to regulate in order to maintain discipline and harmony in the Sangha.

This text was established after events that disturbed the peace of the community of monks and nuns, especially disrespectful acts among members. The Buddha, with deep understanding of human psychology, recognized that uncontrolled actions could destroy the life of practice and the harmonious relationships within the community.

Main Content

The Pahāra Sutta states that bhikkhunīs are not permitted to strike (pahāra) or physically harm other women gone forth, for any reason. This conduct is regarded as a serious violation in the Pātimokkha, because it directly violates one of the fundamental teachings of Buddhism: non-harming (ahiṃsā).

When a bhikkhunī strikes another person, she creates not only physical injury but also mental harm, breaking the trust and affection necessary to nourish a harmonious community. Violent actions, whether small or large, are regarded as inappropriate to the path of practice and wisdom (paññā) that practitioners follow.

This rule does not stop at prohibition, but has a deep meaning: it encourages bhikkhunīs to develop patience (khanti), loving-kindness (mettā), and self-restraint (indriya-saṃvara). Whenever a woman gone forth feels anger or irritation arising, remembering this rule helps her pause, breathe deeply, and seek a wiser way to handle the situation instead of reacting in agitation.