Xct Mu Bi Pc 133Sitting Without Permission

Discourse on Sitting Without Asking Permission (Anāpucchāabhinisīdana)

Background

This rule is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, reflecting detailed regulations concerning the communal life of monks and nuns. In the early period after the Buddha’s Parinirvana, disciples practiced together in forests and monasteries. To maintain harmony and discipline, the Honored Buddha taught specific rules. The rule “Sitting Without Asking Permission” (anāpucchā + abhinisīdana) concerns the action of a monk or nun preparing to sit in a shared space without asking permission from a senior or fellow practitioner.

The context of this rule lies in the Mahāvibhaṅga (the expanded Vinaya), where violations and the ways of handling them are recorded. This shows that early Buddhist communities placed great importance on mutual respect, shared living space, and communal discipline.

Main Content

According to this rule, a monk or nun should not sit in a seat already being used by someone else, or in a space reserved for someone, without asking permission. “Abhinisīdana” (sitting down) is the specific action, and “anāpucchā” (without asking permission) is the condition of the violation.

The rule stipulates that before using a seat or space in the monastery, a monk or nun must:

First, observe whether the place is already being used by someone. Second, if uncertain, ask those already present there. Third, only when permission is clearly given may one sit down.

If this rule is violated, the monk or nun will be subject to appropriate discipline according to the degree of the violation and the specific circumstances. This is not a very grave offense, but it reflects a lack of respect and an improper presumption.

Practical Meaning

The rule “Sitting Without Asking Permission” does not speak only of a merely physical act, but also carries a deep meaning concerning mental conduct. It teaches monastics to have care and to respect the space and rights of others.