Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Dh Np 24Asking for Money
Pāli / Sanskrit:Asking for money
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DISCOURSE ON ASKING FOR MONEY
Background
This discourse is recorded in the Vinaya Pitaka, specifically in the Patimokkha, the code of rules of the Buddhist Sangha. The Vinaya Pitaka is the collection of rules of practice established by the Buddha to protect the community of monks and nuns, build a pure place of practice, and manage the monastic community in an orderly way.
In the history of early Buddhism, the matter of how to use money and material goods was always a great challenge. Monastics maintained their livelihood by receiving alms, but at the same time needed to avoid conduct that could harm their spiritual life or their relationship with supporters. This discourse arose from specific situations in which monastics requested or asked for money from faithful people in an inappropriate way.
Main Content
The Discourse on Asking for Money clearly states that bhikkhus and bhikkhunis are not permitted to directly request or ask for cash from anyone, whether devotees or supporters of the Sangha. This act is considered a violation of the Patimokkha, the most basic rules of deep moral conduct.
The reason for this prohibition is profound: money is the object most likely to give rise to greed, ambition, and complex relationships between householders and the Sangha. When a bhikkhu asks directly for money, this can create the nature of a commercial transaction, something entirely unsuitable for the conduct and view of one gone forth. Those who provide material support to the Sangha should do so from compassion and faith, not because they are pressured or asked.
This discourse also emphasizes that bhikkhus should rely on lawful means to request necessary requisites such as robes, food, and lodging. If money is needed, they must proceed through indirect mechanisms, such as informing supporters or allowing them to provide voluntarily without being directly asked.
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