Xct Mu Bi Pm Pc 85Ordaining Without Permission
Pāli / Sanskrit:Ananuññāta
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Sutta on Going Forth Without Permission
Background
This sutta belongs to the Vinaya Pitaka in the Pali Canon — the code of training rules for the Sangha of Theravada Buddhism. The term "Ananuññāta" (anuññāta = permitted, an- = not) refers to actions that violate basic rules when someone wishes to go forth and become a bhikkhu or bhikkhuni without approval from parents or from those responsible for protecting them.
In the time of the Buddha, going forth was a profound decision, not merely a personal matter but also one connected with family and social responsibilities. Therefore, the Dharma clearly stipulates that those who are not yet mature, those still indebted to parents or masters, or those upon whom others depend cannot lawfully go forth. This rule arises from the spirit of compassion — protecting both the one who wishes to go forth and that person's relatives.
Main Content
The sutta states that in order to go forth lawfully (with approval — anuññāta), the person wishing to go forth must obtain permission from parents or caregivers. If a young person, a slave, or someone still in debt or bound by unresolved responsibilities seeks ordination, that person cannot lawfully enter the Sangha.
Specifically, the sutta lists cases in which one cannot lawfully go forth: those who are slaves of another (dāsa), those still in debt, those cooperating with the government or military, those who are citizens of a country under attack in war and unable to depart, as well as children who have not received parental permission.
This rule is not arbitrary control, but an expression of social ethics. Theravada Buddhism emphasizes that training is not for fleeing responsibility, but for fulfilling responsibility thoroughly through wisdom and compassion. Going forth must not harm the family or community to which a person still owes obligations.
Practical Meaning
The sutta "Ananuññāta" teaches us an important lesson: the mind of renunciation must not arise from escape or greed, but from clarity and integrity.
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