Lzh Mi Bi Vb Pc 53Bathing
Pāli / Sanskrit:Nahāna
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The Bathing Sutta (Nahāna)
Background
The Bathing Sutta is a part of the Vinaya Piṭaka, belonging to the Pācittiya collection, rules of practice that are lighter in nature within the overall discipline of the Sangha. This is not a discourse on awakening or meditation, but a practical regulation concerning the daily life of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs.
The background for the appearance of this discourse concerns bodily hygiene in the monastery. The Buddha, with compassionate and profound concern, set forth detailed guidance on bathing in order to balance care for bodily health, not tormenting oneself like other ascetics, with avoiding attachment to sensual desire. This rule is built on the foundation of the Four Noble Truths, understanding suffering while not needing to destroy oneself.
Main Content
The Bathing rule chiefly regulates situations related to bhikkhus' use of water, as well as cases related to excessive fastidiousness or indulgence in recreation in this activity. The discourse does not completely prohibit bathing, which is a legitimate bodily need, but it admonishes against actions that treat bathing as recreation, such as bathing for too long, or bathing connected with display or self-adornment.
The detailed points in the rule include considerations about an appropriate time for bathing, ways of bathing that do not trouble others, and especially avoiding actions that show signs of sensual desire or pride. If a bhikkhu bathes with attitudes such as delight in pleasure, rejoicing in his own beauty or health, that would be a Pācittiya offense, requiring confession before the Sangha.
Practical Meaning
The deeper meaning of this rule lies in the lesson of balance in practice. Theravāda Buddhism does not advocate extreme asceticism, nor does it accept unrestrained pleasure. Bathing is a practical act, maintaining hygiene and protecting health, but the way it is performed must be imbued with mindfulness (sati).
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