Lzh Mg Bi Pm Np 23The Five Tonics
Pāli / Sanskrit:Bhesajja
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The Sutta on the Five Medicines (Bhesajja Sutta)
Background
The Bhesajja Sutta appears in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically within the regulations concerning medicine and healthcare for the Buddhist Sangha. This Vinaya was recorded to guide monks and nuns in proper conduct, particularly regarding the care of one's health and the use of medicines in the course of spiritual practice.
In its historical context, the Buddha witnessed monastics falling ill without receiving adequate care. He therefore established regulations to ensure that monastics could maintain their physical health, a necessary condition for diligent practice. The Sutta on the Five Medicines reflects a balance between accepting minimal material needs and the Buddhist principle of non-attachment to material things.
Main Content
According to the Vinaya tradition, the Five Medicines (Pañca-bhesajja) are enumerated as lawful means for sustaining the health of monastics:
Ghee (Sappi) — An animal fat derived from clarified butter, regarded as a warming medicine that helps balance the humors of the body. This ghee is nourishing in nature and suitable for monastics who are weak or ill.
Oil (Taila) — Vegetable oil, used for massage and the treatment of conditions related to the skin and joints, typically applied externally.
Honey (Madhu) — Honey, a sweet medicine that balances energy, particularly beneficial for those whose strength has diminished following illness.
Sugar (Khanda) — Sugar or molasses, considered a medicine that provides rapid energy and supports those who are debilitated.
Fish Broth (Macchasūpa) — Fish broth, recognized as a valuable source of protein and nourishment for the restoration of health.
These regulations were established by the Buddha not so that monastics would develop craving for these medicines, but so as to provide the conditions necessary for them to maintain basic health and thus continue their practice of the Path.
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