Bi Pc 1717. Putting out bedding without permission
Pāli / Sanskrit:Anāpucchāsantharaṇa
A nun who spreads out bedding in a house and then sits or lies down without asking the owners for permission must confess the offense.
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Commentary on Bhikkhunī Pācittiya 17: Spreading Bedding Without Permission
Background
This text is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically the Bhikkhunī Pātimokkha — the code of discipline for female monastics in the Theravāda tradition. The Vinaya Piṭaka is a collection of ethical rules established by the Buddha to govern the monastic community, with the aim of protecting harmony and preventing actions that cause harm or undermine the confidence of supporters.
In its historical context, bhikkhunīs typically lived in dependence upon the support of laypeople. They were given shelter, provided with food, and made use of the belongings in the homes of faithful householders. Therefore, respecting the private property of the owners of those homes was a basic expression of gratitude and the maintenance of wholesome conduct. Bhikkhunī Pācittiya 17 reflects this subtle ethical principle.
Main Content
The text sets forth a specific situation: a bhikkhunī spreads a bed or mattress (santharaṇa) in a householder's home and then sits or lies upon it without asking the owner's permission. This action is considered a minor offence, belonging to the category of Pācittiya, requiring the bhikkhunī to confess the transgression.
The important distinction here lies in intention and respect. If the bhikkhunī asks permission beforehand or has received tacit consent, the act of spreading the bedding is entirely permissible. However, making use of another person's property without their agreement is a disregarding of their rights of ownership — an act of disrespect, even if it does not constitute outright theft.
This distinction demonstrates the comprehensiveness of the Buddhist Vinaya. It is not only seriously harmful actions that are prohibited; even attitudes that show a lack of regard are considered faults requiring correction. This is the foundation of the culture of high ethical discipline within the community of monks and nuns.
Practical Significance
Bhikkhunī Pācittiya 17 teaches that a monastic who truly upholds the precepts does not merely avoid harmful actions, but also attends carefully to the subtle details of conduct.
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