Bi Sk 1313. Being noisy
Pāli / Sanskrit:Appasadda
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The Discourse on Noisy Behavior (Appasadda)
Background
The Appasadda (Bi Sk 13) is drawn from the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, specifically from the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga (the section explaining the rules of discipline for female monastics). In the Theravāda tradition, the Vinaya Piṭaka consists not merely of rules of conduct, but of practical teachings on how monastics ought to live in order to cultivate harmony within the community of practitioners (saṅgha) and to uphold the image of Buddhism among the lay population.
This discourse was compiled on the basis of specific situations arising in early monastic life. The Buddha and his disciples, upon witnessing the inappropriate conduct of certain monastics, set forth clear guidelines in order to educate the community of monks and nuns regarding the importance of maintaining discipline and decorum (khandha).
Main Content
The Appasadda concerns the manner in which monastics ought to keep their conduct quiet and composed, avoiding unnecessary noise and clamor in monastic life. This is not an absolute prohibition on speech, but rather a reminder of the need for mindfulness, self-restraint, and sensitivity toward those around one, especially laypeople who have given rise to sincere faith.
In the spirit of the Vinaya Piṭaka, "noisy" behavior (appasadda — a lack of composure, a lack of consideration) is regarded as a manifestation of a mind not yet properly trained. A truly trained monastic should exercise control over body, speech, and mind (kāya, vāca, mano). Making loud sounds within the monastery, laughing boisterously, speaking carelessly, or allowing the body to produce unseemly noise is incompatible with the image of one who has gone forth from the household life.
The discourse emphasizes that this discipline is not a matter of harsh severity, but of respect — respect for the environment of practice, for others who are endeavoring to collect and calm their minds, and for the lay followers through whom faith in the Dharma is formed and sustained. A monastic who is noisy and lacking in dignified composure undermines the confidence of lay practitioners and distorts the image of one who has undertaken the holy life.
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