Xct Mu Bu Vb Ss 3Indecent Speech
Pāli / Sanskrit:Duṭṭhullavācā
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Scripture on Indecent Speech (Duṭṭhullavācā)
Context
This passage belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically the Mahāvibhaṅga, the detailed explanation of the Pātimokkha (the basic code for monks and nuns). These are the regulations established by Gotama Buddha to govern the monastic community, in order to maintain purity and harmony in the Sangha.
In the context of the Theravāda Vinaya Piṭaka, rules concerning speech are not unreasonable restrictions, but practical means of training. Speech is regarded as one of the three actions (kāya, vācā, mano), and therefore it has the direct power to affect the mind and society. The sutta on "Indecent Speech" (Duṭṭhullavācā) addresses coarse, rude, and inappropriate words unsuitable to the way of life of one who follows Buddhism, especially those who have gone forth into the Sangha.
Main Content
Duṭṭhullavācā, the word "duṭṭhu" meaning "coarse, vulgar, indecent, disrespectful," refers to statements or modes of expression unsuitable to the conduct of a monastic. This includes offensive speech, disrespectful linguistic expressions, or statements of a slanderous or improper character.
In the Vinaya Piṭaka context, such conduct is regarded as violating the ethical standards (sīla) of a monastic. The Buddha-Dharma emphasizes that speech is not merely sound, but an expression of consciousness. If the mind is defiled by greed, hatred, and delusion, speech will accordingly become coarse and unbeneficial. This rule helps monastics focus on purifying the mind through careful attention to every word.
According to the Mahāvibhaṅga, the rules concerning speech are closely related to the five precepts (pañcasīla) for laypeople and to the wider regulations for monks and nuns. Avoiding indecent speech is not for the sake of fear or punishment, but for cultivating loving-kindness, courtesy, and mutual respect.
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