Confession 119

Origin Story

The Buddha was staying in Sāvatthī. At that time, a bhikkhunī went together with other women to visit a park with a pond. While the women were eating and drinking by the waterside, the bhikkhunī went to look at old cottages. Then some young men emerged from a grove, and molested the bhikkhunī.

The bhikkhunī told Mahāpajāpatī. … Those who have already heard it should listen again:

Final Ruling

If a bhikkhunī visits a park, a grove, or ancient ruins in her own country, it’s a pācittiya.”

Explanation

“A bhikkhunī” is as explained above. “In her own country” means in her king’s realm. “A park” means a mango orchard, … an atimuttaka orchard. “A grove” means all kinds of tree groves. “Ancient ruins” means empty buildings. If she goes to visit these, it’s a pācittiya. “Pācittiya” is as explained above. If a bhikkhunī is on the way to see a park, a grove, or ruins, she breaks a minor vinaya rule. When she has arrived, it’s a pācittiya. If women supporters invite her to go together, there’s no offense. If a bhikkhu goes to visit ruins, a park, or a grove for enjoyment, he breaks a minor vinaya rule. This is what the World-honored One said.