Lzh Mu Kd 6The Five Tonics
Pāli / Sanskrit:Bhesajja
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The Scripture on the Five Tonics (Bhesajja)
Context
The Scripture on the Five Tonics is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, especially in the Mahāvagga (Great Rules), the section regulating provisions concerning medicine and health care in the Sangha. This is not a scripture on transcendent Dharma-nature, but practical guidance on how to use therapeutic means that Buddhists are permitted to employ.
The context of this scripture arises from practical need: monks and nuns in training need to maintain health in order to be capable of diligence in practice. Buddhism does not deny the value of bodily health; it is one of the conditions that effectively supports the work of liberation. Therefore this scripture records the Buddha’s instructions concerning lawful medicines (bhesajja), in order to help disciples maintain health reasonably without falling into attachment or abuse.
Main Content
The five kinds of tonics recognized by Buddhism as lawful for use include: ghee (clarified butter), butter, oil, honey, and cane sugar. These substances are regarded as nourishing agents that sustain the body and help monks and nuns recover when weakened.
The important point is that these medicines are permitted only in necessary cases, not for craving or pleasure. Regulations concerning the time of use are also clearly stated; for example, monks and nuns may use these “medicines” only within certain periods, to prevent eating them from becoming a habit or an expression of greed.
This scripture also prescribes that other monks and nuns should not urge or force their companions to eat these medicines. Each person decides on the basis of his or her actual health condition. This is the principle of respecting personal autonomy and wisdom.
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