Xct Mu Bu Pm Sk 58Poking Tongue

JIVHĀNICCHĀRAKA SUTTA - THE EXTENDING OF THE TONGUE

Background

The Jivhānicchāraka Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, an indispensable part of the Pāli Canon of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. The Vinaya Piṭaka records the regulations and teachings on discipline for bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs within the monastic community. This sutta, though bearing a rather unusual outward title, “the extending of the tongue,” is in fact a profound cautionary account concerning inappropriate behavior by monastics.

In the historical context of the Buddha, bhikkhus were not permitted to engage in actions of teasing, mocking, or humiliating other members of the Sangha. These rules were established by the Buddha in order to maintain harmony, mutual respect, and the honor of the monastic community.

Main Content

The sutta tells of bhikkhus residing in a certain vihāra who performed the act of extending the tongue (jivhānicchāra), that is, mocking or teasing other bhikkhus by showing the tongue disrespectfully. This was not merely a harmless or amusing act; it reflected a lack of collectedness, a loss of good conduct, and a deficiency in inward discipline.

The Buddha became aware of this action and criticized those bhikkhus. He pointed out that those who practice according to the Dharma should always guard the senses, especially restraining the tongue, a symbol of controlling speech and action. The sutta states that such conduct is unworthy of one living under the sacred precepts, and that it can lead to unwholesome spiritual consequences.

The Vinaya Piṭaka then establishes clear rules (Pāṭimokkha) prohibiting similar actions, in order to protect the integrity of the Sangha and ensure that each member practices with reverence, care, and self-mastery.