Lzh Mi Bu Pm Sk 23Na cāṁsapracālakā pravekṣyāma
Pāli / Sanskrit:Na cāṁsapracālakā pravekṣyāma
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Explanation of the Na cāṁsapracālakā pravekṣyāma Sutta
Background
The Na cāṁsapracālakā pravekṣyāma Sutta is part of the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. The Vinaya Piṭaka is the collection of rules of virtue and discipline set forth by the Buddha Gotama to regulate the communal life of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs.
The title of this sutta means “We shall not scatter powder or sprinkle dust to incite” (Na cāṁsa = no powder; pracālakā = scattering, inciting; pravekṣyāma = we shall). This sutta concerns actions unsuitable to the nature of a bhikkhu or bhikkhunī, especially actions intended to seek attention, create display, or make oneself stand out before the public.
In the historical context, as the Sangha developed, the Buddha and the elders had to build rules to preserve the purity and dignity of the religious community. Such regulations aimed to protect practitioners from temptations related to fame, wealth, and social status.
Main Content
This sutta prohibits actions deliberately intended to make oneself prominent in order to attract attention or receive reverence from others. Specifically, a bhikkhu must not sprinkle powder, white dust, or similar materials on his robe in order to create an impression or make himself appear different and more conspicuous than others.
This action is regarded as a type of violation connected with seeking improper respect (garaha-ṭṭhāniya). The core purpose is to remove any motivation arising from selfhood, personal ambition, or the desire for praise.
According to the Vinaya Piṭaka, such actions are not only outward formal violations but also reflect an impure state of mind. They show craving beyond material things, the craving to be recognized and respected, which the Buddha taught to be a root of suffering.
Practical Meaning
The Na cāṁsapracālakā pravekṣyāma Sutta teaches us the importance of humility (maddava) and not making a show of oneself.
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