Bi Pc 3737. Wandering within the country

Bi Pc 37 Commentary — Wandering Within the Country

Background

Bi Pc 37 belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically to the Bhikkhunī Pātimokkha (the code of discipline for nuns). This is the code of rules established by the Buddha to protect the monastic community, and in particular the nuns, under the still-dangerous and difficult living conditions of ancient India.

This rule arose from a practical reality: nuns, especially when going on alms rounds or visiting other places, frequently encountered desolate and dangerous territories where there were bandits or ill-intentioned persons who would take advantage of them. Theravāda Buddhism has always held in high regard the physical safety, peace of mind, and honor of the bhikkhunīs, and therefore established the necessary restrictions to protect them from situations that could cause harm.

Observing the rule is not merely out of fear, but is a means of cultivating mindfulness (sati) and self-discipline — the essential elements of Theravāda Buddhist practice.

Main Content

Bi Pc 37 stipulates: A nun should not wander alone through dangerous regions within her own country without a group of travelers (antoraṭṭha) accompanying her. Should such an action occur, the nun must confess the offense (pācittiya).

The term "antoraṭṭha" (dangerous interior territory) refers to areas within the country that are considered unsafe — places where there are bandits, persons with malicious intent, or where protection from local authorities is lacking. A "group of travelers" (saparivāra) need not necessarily consist of other monastics; it may be upstanding lay persons traveling the same road, providing safety for the nun.

The offense of "pācittiya" is a category of offense that must be confessed (pāpuṇissati — one that will accrue as a debt if not confessed), lighter than a pārājika (an offense entailing expulsion), yet requiring genuine contrition through confession before the monastic community.