Lzh Mu Bi Pm Pd 6Asking for Molasses

The Sutta on Asking for Molasses (Phāṇitaviññāpana)

Background

The Sutta on Asking for Molasses belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition and is recorded in the Pāli Canon. The regulations concerning food and drink in the Bhikkhu discipline are not merely simple restrictions, but deeply reflect the Buddha’s philosophy of practice: the balance between minimally nourishing the body and the goal of liberation, and compassion that does not allow devas or people to be exploited.

In the Buddha’s time, molasses (phāṇita) was a rare food, often used as medicine or as a sweet drink that restored strength. The story of bhikkhus asking for molasses reflects a common situation in the early monastic community, when monks wished to use special foods for reasons of health or practice.

Main Content

In this regulation, the Buddha allows bhikkhus to ask for molasses, but under clear conditions. Molasses is regarded as a medicinal support (bhesajja), usable when necessary for health, not because of craving or a need for luxury.

However, the manner of asking must also follow a certain principle. Bhikkhus may not actively demand of laypeople: “Bring me molasses.” Instead, if asked, they may answer plainly that molasses is good for health, allowing the layperson to decide for himself or herself whether to offer it. This approach protects the trust of the community, because it avoids any suspicion that bhikkhus are taking advantage of the faith and generosity of laypeople.

The regulation also clearly distinguishes between accepting a voluntarily offered gift and actively “stimulating” generosity. This is a subtle expression of Buddhist ethics, preserving what is good in interactions between the Sangha and the community of supporters.

Practical Meaning

The Sutta on Asking for Molasses teaches that steadfastness in the discipline is not mechanical rigidity or inflexibility.