Lzh Mu Bu Vb Pc 37Eating at the Wrong Time
Pāli / Sanskrit:Vikālabhojana
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Discourse on Eating at an Improper Time
Vikālabhojana
Background
The Vikālabhojana discourse (Eating at an improper time) belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, the collection of texts that regulate in detail the rules of practice within the Buddhist Sangha. The Vinaya Piṭaka records the regulations set forth by the Buddha to maintain discipline and purity in the community of monks and nuns.
The regulation concerning the time for eating is one of the important contents of the Pātimokkha rule, the basic discipline for those gone forth. In the Theravāda Buddhadharma tradition, observing the proper time for eating is regarded as an effective means for practicing restraint of the indriya, the sense faculties, training the mind, and developing meditation. This rule is not merely administrative discipline, but is directed toward a profound spiritual purpose.
Main Content
According to the Pātimokkha, monks and nuns may not eat food such as rice, porridge, or staple nourishment at an improper time, specifically after noon and before dawn the following day. The official time for eating extends from sunrise until noon (madhyāhnā), also called “bhojana-kāla,” the time for eating.
This regulation applies to solid foods, those regarded as staple nourishment. However, drinks such as water, medicinal tea, and certain liquid foods are permitted at other times, provided they are not considered “nourishment.”
Violation of this rule — eating staple nourishment at an improper time — is classified as Pācittiya, an offense requiring confession and review. The degree of offense depends on intentionality and various factors detailed in the Vinaya Piṭaka.
The Buddha laid down this rule for many practical and spiritual reasons. First, it helps monks and nuns maintain restraint and discipline in daily life. Second, eating a single meal in the morning is beneficial for health, limits illness, and best preserves energy for practice.
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