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[First Objective] [145] This text prohibits monks and nuns from traveling to and from hostile kingdoms, as frequent travel in such kingdoms may lead to officials perceiving them as thieves, spies, or conspirators, resulting in various forms of suffering like death or imprisonment. Therefore, a monk who travels to and from such "hostile kingdoms" not only violates the king's authority but also disregards the wisdom of the Jinas. Consequently, they become liable for the "Chaturmasik Anudghatik" atonement.
The "Niyuktikara Sutra" explains the terms "Gaman," "Pagaman," and "Gamana-gaman" by stating that if travel to such "hostile kingdoms" is necessary for specific reasons, one should first seek permission from the border guard ("Parakshak"). They should inform the guard about their purpose and request permission to enter the kingdom. If the guard denies permission, they should send a message to the city's chief merchant ("Nagar-Seth") seeking permission. If the merchant also denies permission, they should send a message to the commander-in-chief ("Senapati"). If the commander-in-chief denies permission, they should send a message to the minister. Finally, if the minister denies permission, they should send a message to the king, stating their reason for entering the kingdom and requesting permission. They should also request the king to instruct the border guards to allow their entry. The same procedure should be followed when leaving the kingdom.
The "Niyuktikara" has outlined specific reasons for travel to and from hostile kingdoms:
1. To initiate parents who are ready to take "Diksha" (renunciation).
2. To console those who are grieving.
3. For a monk who desires "Bhaktapan Pratyakhyan" (death by meditation) to seek guidance from their guru or "Geetarth."
4. For the treatment of a sick monk.
5. To pacify a monk who is angry.
6. To engage in scriptural debate ("Shastrarth") when invited by disputants.
7. To rescue an abducted "Pracharaya" (teacher).
In addition to these reasons, monks can travel to and from hostile kingdoms after obtaining permission if other similar circumstances arise.
The term "Sajj" in the sutra, which prohibits frequent travel, implies that repeated requests for permission may irritate or raise suspicion in the king or his officials. While occasional travel for essential purposes may be acceptable, frequent travel can be problematic. If multiple tasks need to be accomplished, one should carefully plan and complete them in a single trip. Ideally, it is best to avoid traveling to such kingdoms or their capitals altogether. This is the path of "Utsargamarga" (renunciation). If travel is unavoidable, it should not be frequent. This is the essence of the sutra.