Lzh Mi Bi Pm Sk 71Not Get Food by Stretching Arm
Pāli / Sanskrit:Not get food by stretching arm
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An Explanation of the Discourse “Not Begging for Food by Stretching Out the Arm”
Background
This discourse appears in the Vinaya Piṭaka, the sacred collection of Theravāda Buddhism that prescribes rules of conduct for monks and nuns. The Vinaya Piṭaka is not a set of rigid edicts, but wise guidance that helps monks and nuns practice purity, protect the Sangha, and support those who study the Dharma.
In the Buddha’s time, bhikkhus depended on the food of others in order to live. According to an ancient tradition, providing food was a noble form of giving. However, in order to regulate this relationship ethically, clear rules were needed. This discourse concerns a specific action: begging for food by stretching out the hand to receive it. Such actions are regarded as violating the spirit of humility and self-restraint that the Buddha wanted bhikkhus to maintain.
The Vinaya Piṭaka records incidents in which bhikkhus committed offenses, and the Buddha laid down rules to prevent unworthy actions. Each rule reflects a profound understanding of human nature and of how to maintain the integrity of the fourfold Buddhist assembly: bhikkhus, bhikkhunīs, laymen, and laywomen.
Main Content
This discourse forbids bhikkhus from begging for food by stretching out the hand. Although this action may appear simple outwardly, it contains profound ethical issues. First, it is regarded as greed: the wish to receive food with an active, grasping attitude rather than waiting for others to offer it voluntarily. Second, it undermines respect in the lay community, because bhikkhus are practitioners who should embody purity and humility.
The proper way to receive alms is to go on almsround with the bowl, silently and sincerely. A bhikkhu accepts whatever food the donor voluntarily places in the bowl, without any sign of selection or specific desire.
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