Xct Mu Bu Pm Pc 77Leaving Without Giving Consent

Explanation of the Chandaṁadatvāgamana Sutta

Leaving Without Giving Consent

Background

This sutta is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, especially among the rules concerning discipline in the monastic community. The background arose when bhikkhus in the community of the sage Gotama acted without observing collective principles. One of the issues addressed was that members of the Sangha left their dwelling or departed from communal activities without the consent (chanda) of the community.

In Pāli, chanda means “consent, permission,” an important factor in maintaining order and harmony in the monastic community. The action “chandaṁ adatvā agamana,” leaving without giving consent, is regarded as a violation of communal responsibility and respect for the community.

Main Content

This rule concerns the basic discipline of the Sangha. When bhikkhus or bhikkhunīs need to leave the community, whether temporarily or for a long time, or when important decisions need to be made collectively, that person needs the blessing or consent of the community.

The act of leaving without permission reflects a lack of respect for communal discipline. It also shows an attitude of self-judgment and unwillingness to accept correction by the Sangha. This is contrary to the basic principles of the Sangha: unity, mutual affection, and the handling of communal affairs through consensus.

The Vinaya Piṭaka records in detail the specific cases in which this action is prohibited and the corresponding penalty. The purpose is not harsh punishment, but education, helping bhikkhus recognize the importance of compliance and faithful communal conduct (sammodamāna).

Practical Meaning

For practitioners today, this disciplinary sutta teaches that respect for the community is the foundation of the path. Even in contemporary Buddhist practice communities, these basic principles still apply.