Lzh Mi Bu Pm Sk 88Low Seats
Pāli / Sanskrit:Nīcāsana
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Explanation of the Nīcāsana Discourse (The Discourse on Low Seats)
Background
The Nīcāsana discourse belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, the most basic collection of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. In this context, the Vinaya Piṭaka is a collection of rules for practice and governance of the Saṅgha that the Buddha established in order to protect the long-term flourishing of the Dharma.
The Nīcāsana discourse arose from a specific situation in the development of the monastic community. Some bhikkhus initially used high, elaborately decorated seats in order to display status or seek comfort. This action was contrary to the spirit of simplicity and non-craving that the Buddha always encouraged. Therefore, the Buddha gave instruction on using low seats (nīcāsana) as a means of cultivating humility and reducing ambition.
Main Content
The Nīcāsana discourse reminds bhikkhus that using simple low seats is not a punishment, but a practical form of training. A low seat (nīcāsana) symbolizes humbling oneself, abandoning pride and conceit. This is a basic expression of Buddhism: transformation from the nature of greed, hatred, and delusion toward liberation.
According to the Vinaya Piṭaka, rules concerning seats are part of the regulations related to “daily conduct” (ārādhana). The purpose is not to cause discomfort, but to train the mind not to cling to comfort or discomfort. When bhikkhus accept sitting on a low seat, they are cultivating concentration (samādhi) and wisdom (paññā) through restraining unconscious bodily desires.
This discourse is also related to the principle of harmony in the community. When all members practice according to the same simple standard, distinctions of wealth and poverty, high and low, are removed, creating an environment favorable to genuine spiritual practice.
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