Mi Kd 7Medicines
Pāli / Sanskrit:Bhesajja Khandhaka
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THE DISCOURSE ON MEDICINES (BHESAJJA KHANDHAKA)
An Explanation from the Traditional Theravāda Vinaya Piṭaka
Background
The Bhesajja Khandhaka (Section on Medicines) is an important chapter in the Mahāvagga of the Vinaya Piṭaka, recording the Buddha’s instructions on the use of medicines and the care of health within the community of monks and nuns. This is not a doctrinal sutta, but a set of practical rules helping monastics maintain their health so they may continue to practice and propagate the Dharma.
According to the Theravāda tradition, the Vinaya Piṭaka was established step by step as issues arose within the Sangha. The rules concerning medicines were set forth by the Buddha to protect the health of those gone forth, especially in circumstances where bhikkhus were hindered in their practice by illness or pain. This is an expression of the compassion and practical wisdom of the Buddha’s teaching.
Main Content
The Bhesajja Khandhaka prescribes four kinds of medicines (catubbhesajja) that may be used: ghee, oil, honey, and sugar or jaggery. These medicines are regarded as lawful means for treating illness and helping monastics maintain proper health.
This text also makes clear the principles governing the use of medicines: they are to be used only when necessary, for the purpose of healing illness, not out of greed or the pursuit of pleasure. Bhikkhus are permitted to prepare medicines, request assistance from laypeople, and consider carefully before using them.
In particular, the text establishes rules for caring for sick bhikkhus. The Sangha has the responsibility to support Dharma companions who are ill, providing nourishing food, medicines, and necessary care. This reflects the strong communal spirit in Theravāda Buddhist monasteries, where solidarity and mutual kindness are foundational.
Practical Meaning
The essence of the Bhesajja Khandhaka is to teach how to balance self-cultivation with the protection of health.
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