Bi Pc 136136. Scaring a nun
Pāli / Sanskrit:Bhiṁsāpana
A nun who frightens another nun must confess the offense.
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Kinh Bhiṁsāpana - Frightening a Bhikkhunī
Background
The Bhiṁsāpana is part of the Pātimokkha — the fundamental code of discipline for the community of bhikkhunīs in the Theravāda tradition. This code is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, which constitutes the most foundational part of the Buddha's Teaching concerning ethical conduct and the governance of the community.
This rule addresses actions that have the potential to cause psychological harm to other nuns. In the context of a community living together, harmony and mutual respect are essential elements for maintaining an environment conducive to study and spiritual practice. Any action intended or resulting in causing another person fear, anxiety, or disturbance of mental peace is regarded as a violation of fundamental ethical principles.
This rule reflects the Buddha's philosophy that practice is not merely a matter of self-improvement, but also requires the cultivation of a harmonious environment and mutual care within the Sangha community.
Main Content
According to Pātimokkha rule number 136, if a bhikkhunī performs an action that frightens another bhikkhunī, she must acknowledge the offense (āpatti) and carry out an act of contrition (pabbājana) before the assembly. The act of "frightening" (bhiṁsāpana) may take many forms: sudden or unexpected gestures, startling sounds in the vicinity, or actions intended to cause alarm, leaving another person frightened or mentally unsettled.
The crucial point is that the intention (cetanā) or outcome of the action must be clearly established as having caused fear in the other nun. These are not unintentional acts but rather behaviors that are subject to conscious control. This distinction is essential in the Vinaya Piṭaka — for the Buddha's Teaching consistently emphasizes the role of mind and intention in determining the nature of an action.
If the offense is confirmed, the bhikkhunī must perform the pabbājana ceremony — a form of public confession before the community, in which she acknowledges her wrongdoing and resolves not to repeat it.
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