Xct Mu Bi Sk 100Na aśvārūḍhāya
Pāli / Sanskrit:Na aśvārūḍhāya
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The Na Aśvārūḍhāya Text: Things Not to Be Done with Regard to a Horse
Background
In the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddha-Dharma, the Na aśvārūḍhāya text belongs to the detailed regulations concerning the conduct of the monastic community toward animals and communal property. It is part of the Bhikkhu Pātimokkha or Bhikkhunī Pātimokkha, the fundamental code that bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs must observe.
The title “Na aśvārūḍhāya” means “not riding a horse” or “one should not mount a horse,” reflecting a specific rule related to respect for the lives of animals and carefulness in the life of practice. The background arose when the Buddha or the elders established rules to protect the modesty and physical well-being of those participating in practice, and also to prevent heedless actions that might harm living beings.
Main Content
This text states that bhikkhus should not ride horses or other mounts. The basic reason behind this rule comes from the Buddhist principle of avoiding harm to living beings (ahiṃsā). Riding a horse is seen as an act that places pressure and fatigue upon the animal and may also lead to injuries.
In addition, this rule is also connected with concentration and the restraint of the senses. A monastic should devote time to meditation, recitation, and the work of practice, rather than using energy to control a wild animal. Moreover, riding a horse may be seen as satisfying bodily pleasures (sukha), contrary to the principle of austerity in monastic life.
This rule also reflects respect for the communal property of the monastic community. Horses or vehicles were often common property used to transport food or requisites, and therefore their use needed to be permitted and carried out carefully.
Practical Meaning
More deeply, the rule of Na aśvārūḍhāya teaches us mindfulness in actions that may seem minor.
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