Xct Mu Bi Pm Pc 61Disrespect

The Anādariya Discourse - The Offense of Disrespect

Context

The Anādariya discourse, meaning “the offense of disrespect,” is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, belonging to the Pātimokkha - the list of disciplinary rules that the Sangha must observe. This is one of the prohibitions (pācittiya) related to conduct, numbered Xct Mu Bi Pm Pc 61, and reflects the emphasis of Theravāda Buddhism on respect and proper reverence within the community of practice.

In the historical context, the Buddha witnessed problems arising in the Sangha when some bhikkhus did not show proper respect toward those worthy of respect - such as elder monastics, monks of high virtue, or those appointed to guide the practice. This lack of respect was not merely a matter of etiquette, but an expression of an impure mind, leading to fractures in the harmony of the community.

Main Content

This discourse warns that a mindful bhikkhu should avoid actions or attitudes that show disrespect (anādariya) toward those worthy of reverence. This includes actions such as deliberately failing to greet properly, not listening to guidance, avoiding senior or virtuous monastics when meeting them, or showing disobedience through gesture and speech.

In particular, the Buddha emphasized that respect is not an empty outward act, but must arise from genuine recognition of the value and merit of others. When a bhikkhu continually shows lack of respect, this is considered a blameworthy fault (pācittiya), requiring confession and correction of mind.

In the Vinaya context, respect is also connected with the concept of “ādikamma,” right action according to the rule. A bhikkhu who observes this not only honors the Buddha-Dharma but also protects unity and harmony in the community.