Lzh Mg Bi Pm Pc 82Supporting Oneself With Worldly Arts

Sutta on Supporting Oneself With Worldly Arts

An Exposition from the Traditional Theravāda Vinaya Piṭaka

Background

This sutta is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically within the Pātimokkha section for bhikkhus (the monastic rules for monks). It forms an important part of the Saṃgha-sīla (the discipline of the Sangha), clearly defining what conduct is and is not permissible for those who have gone forth into the renunciant life within the Theravāda Buddhist community.

The context giving rise to this sutta consists of questions that arose in the course of the bhikkhus' practice: Once a person has gone forth into the homeless life, may they use worldly skills to support themselves? Where is the boundary between sustaining oneself through legitimate means and pursuing worldly gain and renown? The Buddha set forth specific regulations to provide clear guidance on this matter, helping the bhikkhus to remain focused on the ultimate purpose of going forth—liberation from suffering.

Principal Content

The sutta stipulates that bhikkhus (monks) are not permitted to employ traditional worldly occupations as a means of livelihood. These include: feigning grief or weeping in order to arouse the compassion of others, uttering false or flowery speech in order to obtain provisions, or making use of techniques such as calculation, astrology, interpretation of dreams, divination regarding caves, treating illness through worldly methods, or performing unusual rites and ceremonies.

In particular, the Buddha's teaching does not allow bhikkhus to support themselves by such means as geomancy, drawing up almanacs, instructing others in matters of food and drink, military affairs, or any form of trade and commerce. Such activities are regarded as ticchanavutti—crooked, indirect ways of living for the sake of personal gain.

Instead, bhikkhus are encouraged to live by means of the fourfold requisites (provided according to the offerings of faithful lay followers), or through rightful tasks such as sweeping the premises, tending the garden, or performing services for the monastic community without any intention of personal gain.

Practical Significance

This sutta reflects a profound principle: going forth into the renunciant life is not undertaken as a means of finding a "convenient" livelihood or of pursuing deceptive methods of support.