Lzh Dg Bu Pm Sk 49On Plants
Pāli / Sanskrit:Hariteuccāra
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THE SUTTA ON PLANTS (Hariteuccāra)
An Explanation According to the Theravāda Pāli Canon Tradition
Background
The Hariteuccāra Sutta, concerning green plants, is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Sutta Vibhaṅga section, where the rules of practice for the Buddhist Sangha are recorded in detail. This sutta arose from specific situations that occurred in the community of bhikkhus during the Buddha's lifetime, when disciples needed guidance on how to behave toward nature, especially plant life.
The historical context shows that some bhikkhus destroyed plants and grasses, harming living environments. Such conduct was contrary to the principle of compassion (mettā) and non-harming (ahiṃsā), which are foundations of the Buddha's path. Therefore, the Buddha established clear rules to protect the plant world, expressing the comprehensive ethics of the teaching.
Main Content
The Hariteuccāra Sutta states that bhikkhus should not cut, pull up, or damage plants and grasses without a valid reason. In particular, destroying living vegetation (hariteucca) is considered an act that infringes upon the code (sīla), because it reflects careless thought and lack of respect for life.
This rule is based on the recognition that plants and grasses, though not conscious, are still living things capable of growth and life. Respect for all forms of life is an expression of noble Buddhist ethics. A bhikkhu is permitted to cut grass only when necessary, for example, to clean a dwelling place or construct a place of practice, but must do so carefully, without waste or excessive harm.
The sutta also emphasizes the spirit behind the rule: a mind of safety, a mind free from greed (alobha), and a mind of compassion. When a bhikkhu practices according to this rule, he trains his own mind, reducing tendencies toward greed and arrogance, and thereby draws nearer to liberation.
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