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Pāli / Sanskrit:Capucapukāraka
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The Discourse on Chewing and Biting (Capucapukāraka)
Background
The Discourse on Chewing and Biting is one of the rules of the Vinaya Piṭaka, belonging to the collection of regulations concerning the conduct of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs in the Theravāda Buddhist Order. The Vinaya Piṭaka was compiled after the Buddha’s entry into nirvana, under the supervision of the venerable elders at the Buddhist councils, in order to preserve discipline and harmony in the Sangha.
This discourse reflects real situations in early monastic life. The name “Chewing and Biting” (Capucapukāraka) refers to the act of chewing or biting materials, an issue that seems trivial but has deep implications concerning care, discipline, and respect for common property in the community of practice.
Main Content
The Discourse on Chewing and Biting sets forth prohibitions connected with chewing, biting, or damaging objects belonging to the Sangha without a proper reason. Specifically, bhikkhus are not to chew or bite things such as rope, cloth, cotton, or other materials arbitrarily, without permission or without a valid purpose in practice.
This rule arose from specific cases in which the Buddha’s disciples damaged common property through heedless or unreasonable actions. Uncontrolled chewing and biting not only destroys material things but also reflects lack of mindfulness (sati) and careless conduct. Therefore, the Buddha established this rule to guide bhikkhus in attentiveness, personal discipline, and responsibility toward communal property.
Violations are classified according to degree, from minor offenses (dukkaṭa) to more serious offenses, depending on the extent of damage caused and the intention of the offender. The discourse also sets forth exceptions, such as when materials are chewed for medical reasons or in order to make necessary implements for practice.
Practical Meaning
Although this discourse focuses on a seemingly small detail, it offers a profound lesson on carefulness and respect in practice.
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