Xct Mu Bi Pm Pc 92Nānuśāset
Pāli / Sanskrit:Nānuśāset
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Nānuśāset Sutta — On Not Giving Instruction
Background
The Nānuśāset Sutta appears in the Vinaya Pitaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha section of the rules for bhikkhunis. This is part of the discipline governing communal Buddhist practice in the early period. The Vinaya Pitaka was compiled in order to protect harmony in the Sangha, maintain discipline, and guide practitioners according to the proper way of life in Buddhism.
The title Nānuśāset means "not instructing" or "not teaching." In the context of Vinaya study, this concerns the responsibility of monastics — especially those with experience — to guide and teach those newly entering the life of practice. This regulation reflects the hierarchical structure and moral responsibility within the Sangha.
Main Content
The Nānuśāset Sutta states that bhikkhunis with an appointed term are not permitted to fail in giving instruction (anusāsanā) to new bhikkhunis or those in training. This is regarded as a legal violation (Pācittiya), a type of offense requiring confession before the community. This rule differs from failing to provide basic necessities; it emphasizes educational and spiritual responsibility.
The reason behind this regulation is that failure to instruct can lead to a state in the Sangha where knowledge, discipline, and Buddhist practice are not transmitted. A new monastic who is not guided will be unable to understand clearly the rules of conduct, meditation exercises, or the manner of living in accordance with the Noble Teaching.
In addition, this regulation reflects the value of a learning community and the connection between experienced monastics and those who are still new. This is not only a matter of administrative discipline, but also a moral issue — when one has responsibility toward those who are weaker or less experienced.
Practical Meaning
In the context of Theravada Buddhism, the Nānuśāset Sutta reminds us of the importance of transmitting the Buddhadharma from one generation to the next.
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