Lzh Dg Bi Pm Pc 151What is Scented
Pāli / Sanskrit:Vāsitaka
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Exposition of the Vāsitaka Sutta (Sutta on What Is Scented)
Background
The Vāsitaka Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka in the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, specifically in the Pātimokkha, the code of precepts, the subtle rules regulating the life of practice of bhikkhus. It is not a sutta teaching lofty spiritual doctrine, but a practical regulation helping the Sangha maintain purity and harmony in the community of study and practice.
The background of this sutta concerns the use of fragrances, a matter that may seem trifling but has deep significance in Buddhist discipline. Bhikkhus need to know the boundary between lawful care of the body and indulgence in sensory pleasure. This sutta is precisely an answer to the basic question: "What is considered scented that a bhikkhu may use, and what is prohibited?"
Main Content
The Vāsitaka Sutta determines that permitted fragrant substances are those a bhikkhu may apply to the body for treatment or hygiene, such as scented oil used to treat skin disease. However, the sutta does not permit the use of fragrances for the sake of pleasant sensation or to make oneself appear more attractive, for this is contrary to the spirit of modesty (hiri) and moral dread (ottappa).
The sutta clearly distinguishes between vāsita (what is scented), fragrant liquids or oils still regarded as medicinal materials, and other forms of contact with fragrances that are prohibited. For example, applying perfumes or scented oils merely for appearance violates the Pātimokkha rules.
The core principle here is this: a bhikkhu may use what is necessary for health and bodily hygiene, but must not allow that use to become a means of beautifying himself or stimulating the senses. This is a way of practicing the Noble Eightfold Path (Ariyo Aṭṭhaṅgiko Maggo) in the aspect of samyak-ājīva, right and wholesome livelihood.
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