Xct Mu Bu Pm Pc 49Raising a Hand
Pāli / Sanskrit:Talasattika
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THE SUTTA ON RAISING THE HAND - TALASATTIKA
Background
The Sutta on Raising the Hand (Talasattika) is one of the important provisions of the Pātimokkha, the fundamental code of the Theravāda Buddhist Sangha. This material is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pācittiya section, concerning offenses that require confession. The sutta is named “Talasattika” (from tala = palm of the hand, sattika = seven), referring to a specific action connected with raising the hand, a common gesture in daily communication.
The historical background of this rule arises from specific situations in the early community, when the Buddha discovered that bhikkhus had violated the principles of pure communal conduct. Instead of issuing harsh absolute prohibitions, he established training rules meant to educate the mind, cultivate self-control, and maintain harmony in the Sangha.
Main Content
This rule concerns small actions that nevertheless have deep significance: the gestures and actions of a bhikkhu in interaction with others, especially women, whether bhikkhunīs or laywomen. The act of “raising the hand” or similar gestures is examined in the light of respect, courtesy, and the protection of a pure intention.
According to the Pāli Canon tradition, this provision reminds us that even outwardly harmless actions may lead to inappropriate thoughts or feelings if they are done with impure intention or in circumstances that may be misunderstood. The rule encourages bhikkhus to be careful, actively govern their actions, and maintain voluntary discipline.
Violations in this area belong to the Pācittiya class: offenses requiring confession before the Sangha or another bhikkhu. These are not the gravest offenses, such as Pārājika, but they should not be ignored, because they reflect a lack of heedfulness, an essential virtue in Buddhist practice.
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