The Manual of the Bhikkhu

The book begins with a preface explaining that moral discipline is the foundation of all practices leading to nibbāna. It then introduces the origin of the Pātimokkha, explaining that rules were gradually established by the Buddha as faults arose within the monastic community. The main body organizes the 227 rules into eight categories: 4 pārājikas, 13 saṅghādisesas, 2 aniyatas, 30 nissaggiya pācittiyas, 92 pācittiyas, 4 pāṭidesanīyas, 75 sekhiyas, and 7 adhikaraṇasamathas. The text also explains offences outside the Pātimokkha, methods for purifying faults, the recitation of the Pātimokkha, the bhikkhu’s belongings, the four requisites, offerings, the rains retreat, the nature of Vinaya, the identity and duties of a bhikkhu, the process of ordination and disrobing, and the thirteen dhutaṅgas.