[872] Bhikkhus, even then it was displeasing to me that one, having sat down on a low seat, should recite a mantra to one seated on a high seat; how much more now — will it not be displeasing that one, having sat down on a low seat, should teach the Dhamma to one seated on a high seat? Bhikkhus, this does not conduce to the confidence of those without confidence, nor to the increase of confidence of those already confident … And thus, bhikkhus, you should recite this training rule (sikkhāpada):
"'I shall not, having sat down on a low seat, teach the Dhamma to one who is not sick who is seated on a high seat' — this training is to be observed."
The Dhamma should not be taught by one who has sat down on a low seat to one who is not sick who is seated on a high seat. Whatever bhikkhu, out of disrespect, having sat down on a low seat, teaches the Dhamma to one who is not sick who is seated on a high seat, commits an offence of wrong-doing (dukkaṭa).
There is no offence: if it is unintentional; if he is without mindfulness; if he does not know; if he is sick; in emergencies; if he is insane; if he is the first offender.
English translation from the Pali (Siam Raṭṭha edition) — under review, not for citation.