Lzh Dg Bi Pm Pc 93Not Nursing
Pāli / Sanskrit:Naupaṭṭhāpana
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THE SUTTA ON NOT NURSING (Naupaṭṭhāpana)
Explanation from the Traditional Pāli Vinaya Piṭaka
Background
The Sutta on Not Nursing (Naupaṭṭhāpana) is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha, the basic code of discipline of the early Buddhist Sangha. This text is especially related to matters of medicine, health care, and the responsibility of bhikkhus toward others in the Sangha community.
In the historical context, the Buddha issued regulations concerning care for the sick as a concrete expression of compassion (mettā). Bhikkhus who did not care for those who were ill or in difficulty were considered to violate the spirit of the Sangha, the monastic community that should be bound together by loving concern and mutual responsibility. This sutta arose from specific situations in early monastic life.
Main Content
The regulation in Naupaṭṭhāpana concerns the case of a bhikkhu or bhikkhunī neglecting to care for a fellow practitioner, especially one who is sick or vulnerable. This rule emphasizes that failing to care for those in need is an act contrary to the spirit of Buddhism. Care (paṭṭhāpana) includes not only providing food and medicine, but also attention, concern, and support in difficult times.
Specifically, if a bhikkhu refuses or neglects to care for the sick without a valid reason, this is regarded as an ethical offense (dukkuṭa). However, the rule also recognizes legitimate circumstances, such as when the caregiver is also seriously ill or unable to carry out the care. Buddhist discipline always balances strictness with compassion.
This regulation reflects a basic principle: in the Sangha, every member has responsibility toward the others. It is not a rule imposed from outside, but an expression of deep understanding of the interdependence of all beings (pratītyasamutpāda) and the nature of unconditional compassion.
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