Patimokkhathe

Patimokkhathe is a term from the Pali canon of Theravada Buddhism that refers to the set of ethical precepts and monastic rules that govern the conduct of bhikkhus and bhikkhunis, fully ordained Buddhist monks and nuns. The word itself is a compound of "Pati" meaning "against" or "towards" and "mokkha" meaning "liberation" or "freedom." Thus, Patimokkhathe can be understood as the rules that lead to liberation.

These rules are not seen as commandments, but as guidelines for cultivating a mind free from defilements and for creating an environment conducive to spiritual practice. The Patimokkhathe is recited by the monastic community twice a month, during the full and new moon days. This recitation serves as a reminder of the rules and an opportunity for confession and purification of any breaches.

The specific number and nature of the rules vary between the bhikkhus' Patimokkhathe (which has 227 rules according to the Mahavihara tradition) and the bhikkhunis' Patimokkhathe (which has 311 rules). The rules cover a wide range of behaviors, including prohibitions against killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, and false speech, as well as more specific regulations concerning food, clothing, and social interactions within the monastic community. Adherence to the Patimokkhathe is considered fundamental to the monastic way of life in Theravada Buddhism.