Lzh Mg Bi Pm Sk 51Slurping

Discourse on the Sound of Slurping Water (Surusurukāraka)

Background

In the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, the rules of discipline for the Sangha are recorded in detail in order to protect the spirit of practice and respect for the teaching. The Surusurukāraka discourse appears in the Pācittiya section (minor offenses) of the Bhikkhunī Pātimokkha, the monastic rule for bhikkhunīs.

The historical setting of this discourse is connected with communal life in the monasteries of the early Sangha. While the Buddha was still living, he often witnessed small acts that could distract others in meditation or disrupt the cultivation of other monastics. The discourse on the sound of slurping water is one of the regulations set forth by the Buddha or by the elders of the Sangha to preserve quiet, purity, and respect within the community of practice.

Main Content

The Surusurukāraka discourse prohibits bhikkhunīs from drinking water or other liquids while eating and drinking in a way that produces a loud sound (surū — a loud, bustling sound). This action is regarded as uncivilized and not in accord with the four foundations of mindfulness (smṛti-upasthāna) at the time of eating and drinking.

According to this rule, when drinking water or other beverages, a bhikkhunī must do so quietly and calmly, without making a hissing or strong slurping sound. This is not merely an outward matter of manners, but is also related to concentration and respect for the shared space of the Sangha.

Eating and drinking noisily is considered a Pācittiya, an offense requiring confession and public repentance before the Sangha, but not a grave offense such as Pārājika (defeats). This shows that the rule is not intended as severe punishment, but as education, correction of conduct, and a means to help bhikkhunīs develop full attentiveness (samprajanya).

Meaning for Practice

Beyond formal regulations, the Surusurukāraka discourse teaches mindfulness (sati) and purity of mind (cittasuddhī).