Lzh Mi Bi Vb Pc 153Scents and Colors

The Gandhavaṇṇaka Sutta: Scents and Colors

Background

The Gandhavaṇṇaka Sutta, “Scents and Colors,” is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, the oldest component of the Pāli Canon, which includes the rules of discipline established by the Buddha for monks and nuns. This sutta appears in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga, the explanation of the bhikkhunī rules. Its appearance reflects the concern of the early community with practical matters in the life of practice.

The historical background of the sutta concerns rules on the use of fragrant substances and coloring agents in the community of bhikkhunīs. These regulations are not arbitrary prohibitions, but pātimokkha admonitions issued when specific cases arose, with the purpose of protecting the purity of training and respecting the principles of simplicity (pabbajjā).

Main Content

The Gandhavaṇṇaka Sutta concerns a specific disciplinary rule about bhikkhunīs using fragrant substances (gandha) and colors (vaṇṇa) to adorn or beautify themselves. According to the Theravāda Vinaya, bodily adornment with perfumes, essential oils, hair dye, or facial coloring is considered conduct contrary to the spirit of going forth.

The core reason is this: one who has gone forth has done so to transcend desires, preferences, and attractions related to the body. Using fragrances and cosmetics to beautify oneself can lead to the stimulation of sensual craving, dependence on pleasant sensations (sukha), or the arousing of pride. This is contrary to the Noble Path (Ariyamagga) that every bhikkhunī must cultivate.

This sutta lays down clear restrictions: bhikkhunīs should not use fresh perfumes, such as the scent of fresh flowers or precious woods; they should not dye their hair or paint the body with colors to increase beauty. Permitted exceptions are uses for medicine or regular cleanliness, such as washing the face or applying medicinal treatments.