Lzh Mi Bi Vb Np 13The Five Tonics
Pāli / Sanskrit:Bhesajja
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THE SUTTA ON HEALING ENERGY (Bhesajja)
Background
The Sutta on Healing Energy (Bhesajja) is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, specifically in the section for women, the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga. This sutta is rooted in the historical context of the Buddha Gotama and the first female disciples.
According to the records of the Pāli Canon, this sutta arose from a specific event when some nuns encountered health difficulties. The Buddha, with boundless compassion, instructed the Sangha on how to use medicines and nourishing substances to heal illness. This reflects the Buddha’s deep concern not only for spiritual liberation, but also for the physical health of his disciples, because a healthy body is a foundation for practicing the Dharma.
The name "Healing Energy" (Bhesajja, from bhesaj-, "to heal") in the spirit of the Buddhadharma does not simply refer to physical medicines, but also carries a symbolic meaning concerning the means that help beings escape suffering.
Main Content
This sutta regulates five kinds of "medicine" or "healing factors" that the Buddha permitted nuns to use to maintain health during practice. These "medicines" include:
First are powders, nourishing substances approved to sustain the body. Second are special foods with healing properties prepared according to specific instructions. Third are waters, oils, or liquids used to regulate and balance the body. Fourth are salt and minerals used to protect health. Fifth is honey, regarded as a precious nourishing substance that supports recovery.
However, the Buddha also gave strict rules about how these "medicines" are to be used. They are permitted only when truly necessary, not to satisfy desire or greed.
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