Xct Mu Bi Pc 60Leaving Without Giving Consent

DISCOURSE ON LEAVING WITHOUT ASKING PERMISSION (Chandaṁadatvāgamana)

Background

In the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, the regulations concerning the conduct and discipline of the Sangha were established to protect harmony, dignity, and the spiritual development of the Order. The discourse Chandaṁadatvāgamana (Leaving Without Asking Permission) is one of the rules belonging to the Pācittiya class, offenses that may be expiated, in the Bhikkhunī Pātimokkha, the disciplinary code for bhikkhunīs.

This discourse was recorded in order to protect the community of practice, especially bhikkhunīs, from irresponsible independent actions that could weaken collective discipline. The background from which this rule arose reflects the need to establish order and mutual respect within the monastic community.

Main Content

This rule states clearly: if a bhikkhunī leaves the dwelling place of the Sangha without asking permission (chandaṁ adatvā), that is, without receiving consent from the elder nuns or those responsible for managing the community of practice, then this action is considered a violation of Pācittiya.

The phrase “chandaṁ adatvā” means “without giving attention/consent,” in which chanda is not merely personal desire but also conscious consent from the community. Leaving suddenly without informing or asking permission is not only a spontaneous act, but also a lack of respect for the structure of the community.

This violation may arise in situations such as: a bhikkhunī departing without informing the senior nuns, or leaving the community of practice without guidance or approval from those responsible for administrative and spiritual oversight. The degree of violation is classified as Pācittiya, which can be expiated through self-examination and confession before one nun or several nuns, and is not a grave offense such as Saṅghādisesa or Pārājika.