Toh 1-13Chapter 13: On Penitents
Pāli / Sanskrit:Pārivāsikavastu
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Sūtra on Ascetic Practitioners (Chapter 13: On Those Practicing Ascetic Discipline)
Context
This chapter appears in the Vinaya of the Northern Transmission canon, specifically in the Kangyur — the collection of official scriptures translated into Tibetan. The Pārivāsikavastu, or “the chapter on ascetic practitioners,” belongs to the Mūlasarvāstivāda Vinaya — one of the most important Vinaya collections of the Northern Mahāyāna tradition.
The historical context of this chapter is tied to the development of rules of practice within the monastic Sangha. It records the instructions of Buddha Śākyamuni for monks and nuns who must undergo a disciplinary retreat (pārivāsa), a form of repentance and retraining in discipline after violating certain precepts. This chapter is an expression of the compassion and wisdom of the Buddhadharma, allowing those who have erred the opportunity to correct themselves, rather than being permanently excluded from the community.
Main Content
The Pārivāsikavastu revolves around the concept of “pārivāsa,” that is, a period of ascetic practice under the supervision of virtue. In the Northern Vinaya, there are two main kinds of pārivāsa: one for minor faults (pārājikas) and one for more serious faults. The offender must follow a series of strict restrictions concerning daily life, food and drink, residence, and interactions with fellow practitioners.
This chapter specifically prescribes that ascetic practitioners must live separately, may not take part in communal practice activities, and must be under close supervision by the Sangha. However, the important point is that they are still regarded as members of the Sangha, still have the right to uphold the Vinaya, and may strive to regain their original status. The specific content of this scripture has not yet been fully translated, but the general context shows that it is part of a comprehensive disciplinary institution, reflecting the Mahāyāna principle of universal salvation and the capacity of all sentient beings for transformation.
Practical Meaning
The meaning of the Pārivāsikavastu goes far beyond merely administrative rules.
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