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The Concept of Pañcasila in Indian Thought
out of some other reason, as for example to avoid the punisko ment, (and in this way he indulges in falsehood). Thus the violation of this precept carries with it other vices also and therefore its violation is considered to be the greatest offence. Its account is so detailed because it is the most shameful offence out of all the offences caused by the violation of the five precepts, and it is directly against the spirit of asceticism.
The discussion of this topic is informative in many ways; such as one gets the knowledge of the prevalent sex habits of the people of those days; one also comes to know about the cautiousness of the compilers of the Vinaya regarding these habits and breach of the precept of celibacy; and one also learns of the results of the forced celibacy which found outlet through improper channels and which might have been much greater in number if normal freedom had been allowed to them. But to a general reader still it contains a tinge of obscenity and vulgarity at many places. However, it is clear that the Vinaya is clear and distinct on every possible transgression. “Almost all the cases in the Pātimokkha code about celibacy and its violation are drawn up with a view to having a recorded decision on every possible occurrence. They are interesting mainly as evidence of legal acumen and are of value for the history of law.". For the study of law it is extremely necessary to go into all the minutest details, but for the present purpose it is not needed to go into all those details, though in brief everything is to be mentioned.
At the outset pārājika_the most rigorous offence committed by the monk in connection with the precept of celibacyis to be discussed. The monk, as is told, totally abstains from indulging in any major or minor sexual act with human beings as well as beasts. In the category of pāräjika come all such offences of extreme type committed by a monk against
1. E.R.E., vol. 3, p. 271. 2. यो पन भिक्खु मैथुनं धम्म पटिसेवेय्य पाराजिको होति असंवासो ति ।
- Pārājika, p. 26.
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