Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Dh Pc 157Stingy With Families

Discourse on Stinginess Toward Families (Kulamaccharinī)

Background

Kulamaccharinī (stinginess toward families) is a regulation belonging to the Vinaya Piṭaka in the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. This discourse is recorded in the Vinaya, especially in the Pātimokkha section, the basic code that bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs must observe.

The appearance of this rule reflects the historical context in which the Sangha, the monastic community, was growing and needed clear standards. The Buddha formed these rules not as absolute regulations detached from circumstances, but from specific events that occurred in the monastic community. When a problem arose, he would establish a rule to guide the disciples to act in a skillful and reasonable way.

The rule on "stinginess toward families" is directly connected with the ethics of bhikkhus interacting with householders (upāsaka/upāsikā), those who materially support the Sangha. This is an important matter because the relationship between monastics and householders is a foundation of the community of practice.

Main Content

Kulamaccharinī refers to the conduct of a bhikkhu or bhikkhunī when they show a stingy, greedy, or compassionless attitude toward the families who support them. Specifically, this rule warns monastics that they should not:

Refuse reasonable help from families, especially when it concerns legitimate needs for food or robes. Such an act not only violates the spirit of loving-kindness (mettā), but also damages the relationship of trust between the Sangha and the outside community.

Store up articles beyond the needs of practice, especially property or money. This is considered an expression of greed (lobha), one of the three roots of suffering (akusala mūla).

Show aversion or lack of respect toward ordinary householders or those in more difficult circumstances. Monastics should cultivate compassion toward all beings without distinction of social status.