Lzh Mu Bi Pm Pc 167What is Scented
Pāli / Sanskrit:Vāsitaka
Save your scripture progress
Create a free account to save scriptures, track progress, and continue your daily learning path.
Commentary on the Vāsitaka Sutta (What Is Scented)
Background
The Vāsitaka Sutta is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, specifically within the regulations of the Pātimokkha (the Code of Monastic Discipline). This is not a discourse in the sense of teaching the Four Noble Truths or central doctrines, but rather a disciplinary rule concerning the use of fragrant substances and scented materials by bhikkhus within the Saṅgha.
The context giving rise to this regulation belongs to the early period of the Saṅgha, when the Buddha and his disciples were still living together. Practical matters of communal religious life required regulation in order to maintain discipline, proper conduct, and the dignity befitting followers of the Path. The use of fragrant substances — whether scented oils, incense, or other aromatic materials — was regarded as a matter with potential implications for sensual indulgence, concern for outward appearance, and desire.
Principal Content
The rule concerning "what is scented" (vāsita) in the Pātimokkha addresses the principle that a bhikkhu should not use or accumulate scented substances such as perfumed oils, fragrances, incense, or other aromatic products, except in cases permitted for medical or basic hygienic reasons. This regulation arises from the principle of "having few wishes, being content with little" (appicchatā) and the avoidance of "delight in enjoyment" (bhoga-rasa), which the Buddha counseled for bhikkhus.
The Vinaya teaches that a bhikkhu should live simply, making use only of what is necessary to maintain health and to continue the practice. Fragrant substances, though they may bring bodily comfort, are subtle hindrances to a pure and composed mind. They stimulate the sense faculties and are bound up with attachment and desire, drawing the mind away from its goal of liberation.
🌏 The Buddhist canon is vast — some sūtras (such as comparative Vinaya across schools, or untranslated Tibetan-canon texts) have to this day NEVER been translated into Vietnamese or English by anyone, scholars included. Rather than leave it blank, Inti AI offers a FAITHFUL summary grounded in the tradition — from the sūtra's title, origin and essence — so you can still reach this rare part of the treasury. Whenever an original translation exists, the app shows the original first.
Translations belong to the translator/source credited above. The bilingual compilation, presentation, and AI translations compiled by Inti are © Inti Foundation. Please attribute when quoting; do not bulk-copy or use commercially without permission.