Xct Mu Bu Vb Pc 16Throwing Out a Monastic
Pāli / Sanskrit:Nikkaḍḍhana
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Explanation of the Nikkaḍḍhana Sutta (Xct Mu Bu Vb Pc 16)
Context
Nikkaḍḍhana, provisionally translated as “Expelling a Monastic,” is part of the regulations in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition. This sutta belongs to the Pātimokkha Sutta, the code of training rules for bhikkhus (male monastics) and bhikkhunīs (female monastics). Specifically, this section concerns Pācittiya, offenses against the teaching for which confession requires the recognition of the Sangha.
In the Buddha’s time, the noble Sangha established rules to protect integrity, communal order, and the diligent practice of its members. When a monastic committed a fault, appropriate measures were needed. Nikkaḍḍhana is one form of disciplinary handling in the Sangha, intended to ensure the purity of the Dharma.
Main Content
According to the Vinaya Piṭaka, when a monk or nun commits certain serious faults, especially actions that break with what is unwholesome or contrary to Dharma (adhamma), the Sangha may decide to expel that person from the community (nikkaḍḍhana). This is not an unconditional punishment, but a last resort when the offender refuses to confess, continues conduct contrary to Dharma, or harms the Sangha.
The process of expulsion is carried out solemnly, through steps such as three formal announcements, the presentation of evidence, and finally an official resolution of the Sangha. The person expelled may not take part in communal activities and may not enjoy the privileges of a bhikkhu or bhikkhunī until they truly repent and are accepted back by the Sangha.
Faults leading to expulsion often include stubborn refusal to listen, actions directly contrary to the Buddha’s Dharma, or disturbing the harmony of the Sangha (saṅghabheda). The purpose of this measure is to preserve the purity of the Sangha and encourage the individual’s reform.
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