Lzh Mu Bi Vb Pd 1Asking for Milk
Pāli / Sanskrit:Khīraviññāpana
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Khīraviññāpana Sutta (Asking for Milk)
Background
The Khīraviññāpana Sutta is one of the Pātimokkha training sections belonging to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. This text is found in the Bhikkhu Vibhaṅga, the detailed explanation of the rules for bhikkhus, specifically among the Pārājika rules or the regulations concerning skills for communal Saṅgha life.
The discourse was recorded in the context of the Buddha’s lifetime, when bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs needed specific guidance on how to conduct themselves in daily situations. This discourse records a small but important detail: asking for or receiving milk, an essential food for monastic health, yet one that also carries risks of violating rules concerning mental attitude and respect for the precepts.
Main Content
The Khīraviññāpana Sutta addresses a humane issue bhikkhus may encounter in the life of practice. When a bhikkhu needs milk for health or medical reasons, how should he ask in a way that accords with the spirit of the precepts?
The Buddha taught that a bhikkhu may ask for milk, but the way of asking must follow basic principles. One must not ask excessively, pressure, or seize by force. The request must arise from genuine need, not from greed or desire for taste. Moreover, the bhikkhu must maintain mindfulness of the Dhamma even in the smallest actions, such as asking for a bowl of milk.
This discourse also clarifies that the precepts are not mechanical, arbitrary rules. Instead, they are guidance so that monastics may live mindfully, respect others, and not deprive others of their property or rights. Behind every rule are compassion and deep understanding of suffering.
Practical Meaning
The Khīraviññāpana Sutta teaches us a profound lesson about the role of mindfulness and respect in every aspect of life.
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