Xct Mu Bu Vb Np 20Bartering
Pāli / Sanskrit:Kayavikkaya
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EXPOSITION OF THE KAYAVIKKAYA SUTTA (BARTERING)
Background
The Kayavikkaya Sutta (Pāli: Kayavikkaya) belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, specifically within the Nuns’ Precepts (Bhikkhunī Pātimokkha). This is one of the detailed rules regulating the way of life of bhikkhunīs (female renunciants) in the Sangha community.
The background of this discourse reflects a practical issue in the life of practice: the problem of exchanging goods, buying and selling, or, in other words, commercial activity. The Buddha saw that some renunciants had violated the spirit of renunciation by engaging in transactions of buying and selling and exchanging property. This was contrary to the basic principle of the monastic life, namely, abandoning desire for possessions and fame.
The discourse was established to protect the spiritual and psychological independence of renunciants, while also preserving the honor of the Sangha community.
Main Content
Kayavikkaya (from kaya = body, vikkaya = trade) forbids bhikkhunīs from engaging in the exchange or sale of goods. This rule states that a renunciant is not permitted to:
Directly exchange requisites, clothing, or personal property with others, whether monastic or lay. Such transactions, however small, are considered violations of the Vinaya.
Participate in chains of buying and selling for the purpose of making profit, rather than simply meeting basic living needs.
This action is classified among the Pācittiya offenses (an offense heavier than dukkaṭa but lighter than Saṅghādisesa), requiring public confession before the Sangha.
The prohibition does not apply to necessary cases, such as an exchange decided by the Sangha or official support from the community. However, personal and spontaneous activities aimed at gaining profit are strictly forbidden.
Practical Meaning
The Kayavikkaya Sutta is not merely an administrative rule.
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