Pārājika

The rules in this category are known in Pali as <i lang='pi' translate='no'>pārājika</i>. The exact meaning of the Pali word is disputed, but there is no doubt that it refers to expulsion from the monastic Sangha. There are eight such rules for the nuns, four of which are shared with the monks. Anyone who breaches any of these rules immediately loses her status as a nun. She is expelled from the Sangha and ineligible for re-ordination for the rest of her life. The <i lang='pi' translate='no'>pārājikas</i>, together with the next category of rules, the <i lang='pi' translate='no'>saṅghādisesas</i>, are collectively known as serious offenses, <i lang='pi' translate='no'>garukāpatti</i>. These rules are the most fundamental ones for the proper living of the monastic life.