Lzh Mu Bi Vb Pd 10Asking for Dried Meat

Explanation of the Discourse "Asking for Dried Meat"

Background

This discourse is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, specifically in the Pātimokkha Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga, the detailed rules for bhikkhunīs. These are rules concerning food-related actions that female monastics must observe in order to preserve diligent practice.

The background of its arising is that some bhikkhunīs asked laypeople or others outside the Saṅgha community for dried meat. The Buddha saw that this involved the issue of rules for eating and drinking in the Buddhist religious community. The Vinaya Piṭaka records specific regulations concerning legitimate conditions for receiving food, especially protein foods such as meat.

In the context of Theravāda Buddhism, the eating and drinking of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs must follow certain principles: they should not seek out valuable foods, should not trade, and should not ask for special kinds of food without a valid reason. Dried meat is a preserved food, often considered "rare" at that time.

Main Content

The discourse states that if a bhikkhunī herself asks for dried meat, or any food considered a "delicacy" or "special" item, from outsiders, and not because of illness or true necessity, this is conduct violating the rule, whether a pārājika or sikkhamānā offense depending on the degree.

This rule emphasizes that bhikkhunīs should accept ordinary food provided by laypeople, or food offered when the Saṅgha community is invited for a meal. If there is a special nutritional need, such as during illness, there must be verification by members of the Saṅgha or a clear reason.

The detailed analysis (vibhaṅga) explains exceptional cases, the distinction between "asking" and "receiving" when others give spontaneously, as well as rules about time, place, and who is permitted or not permitted to ask.