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## Third Uddeshak
1. If a Bhikkhu desires to hold a Gan (group) i.e. to be a leader, and he is devoid of Sutra-knowledge and other qualifications, then it is not permissible for him to hold a Gan. If the Bhikkhu is endowed with Sutra-knowledge and other qualifications, then it is permissible for him to hold a Gan.
2. If a qualified Bhikkhu desires to hold a Gan, then it is not permissible for him to hold a Gan without seeking permission from the Theras (elders). If the Theras grant permission, then it is permissible to hold a Gan. If the Theras do not grant permission, then it is not permissible to hold a Gan.
If someone holds a Gan without seeking permission from the Theras, then due to this violation of the code of conduct, he becomes liable for Diksha-Chhed (excommunication) or Tap-Prayaschitt (penance). However, those Sarmic Sadhus (devout monks) who live under his leadership are not liable for Diksha-Chhed or Tap-Prayaschitt.
**Explanation:**
Holding a Gan happens in two ways:
1. Leading a group of Sadhus or observing Chaturmas (four-month rainy season retreat) with them. This is the first type of holding a Gan. Such a Bhikkhu is called a Gan-dhar, Gan-pramukh, Sanghatak-pramukh, Mukhiya, or leader. In the commentary, he is also called "Spardhak-pati".
2. Being the head of a group of Sadhus, i.e., holding the position of Acharya (teacher) etc. This is called Acharya, Upadhyaya, Gan-dhar, Gachch-adhipati, Gani, etc.
The meaning is that those who hold a position and those who lead are called "Gan-dhar". The two Sutras presented here refer to the first type of Gan-dhar, because they mention seeking permission from the Theras to hold a Gan and the liability for penance for holding a Gan without permission. This rule is not applicable to those who hold the position of Acharya. The position of Acharya is given by the Theras of the Gan or by the permission of the current Acharya, or by the Sadhus, Sadhvis, and the four-fold Sangha of the Gachch. However, no one can take the position on their own.