Xct Mu Bi Sk 26Na nikaṭotkuṭakayā gamiṣyāma

Explanation of the Na nikaṭotkuṭakayā gamiṣyāma Text

Background

This text is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, belonging to the body of rules of practice for the community of monks and nuns. The Vinaya Piṭaka is the ethical and disciplinary foundation of the Sangha, declared by the Buddha to protect the community of practice and maintain the purity of the Dharma.

The title “Na nikaṭotkuṭakayā gamiṣyāma” may be understood as “We shall not go in that way,” or as related to regulations concerning the actions and movement of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs in daily life. In the context of the Vinaya Piṭaka, this is a specific guide to proper conduct, what should and should not be done when members of the community of practice take part in common activities.

These regulations arose from specific events in the development of the Sangha, when problems concerning the conduct of ascetics appeared and the Buddha gave clear instructions to regulate them.

Main Content

This text belongs to the Pātimokkha type, the most basic and minimal declarations in Buddhist practice. The regulations in the Vinaya Piṭaka are not unreasonable restrictions, but wise instructions intended to protect the mind and actions of the practitioner.

The phrase “Na nikaṭotkuṭakayā gamiṣyāma” reflects the basic principle that monks and nuns should not act, behave, or move in an improper manner. This includes requirements concerning:

First, consistency in moral conduct: the actions of a practitioner must accord with the vows of renunciation and with one’s vision. Second, respect for communal discipline: every individual in the Sangha is responsible not only for himself or herself but also for the community. Third, preserving the dignity of the Dharma: the actions of bhikkhus influence the way the wider community perceives Buddhism.