Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Dh Pc 44Bathing
Pāli / Sanskrit:Nahāna
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The Discourse on Bathing (Nahāna Sutta)
Background
The Discourse on Bathing belongs to the Vinaya Pitaka, specifically among the Pātimokkha rules of the Sangha. These are regulations related to the daily practice of monks, nuns, and laypeople, intended to protect purity of body and mind and harmonious communal living in the Sangha.
In the time when the Buddha was still living, the matter of bodily hygiene, especially bathing, was not only a daily habit but also related to issues of communal discipline. The Vinaya Pitaka records that the Blessed Buddha established detailed regulations on how to bathe in order to avoid unnecessary incidents, protect health, and maintain respect within the Sangha. These regulations reflect the practical reality that spiritual practice must be combined with reasonable care for the body.
Main Content
This discourse sets forth prohibitions concerning bathing by bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs. Specifically, monastics must not bathe with laypeople or in inappropriate circumstances, especially in the presence of women or men who are not relatives. These regulations were established to avoid suspicion or unwholesome vulgarity.
The Blessed Buddha also prescribed suitable times for bathing, places to avoid, and matters requiring caution when bathing. For example, one should not bathe at dangerous times and should not allow others to bathe together in a way inconsistent with the nature of practice. These regulations include the use of clean water, choosing safe locations, and avoiding careless or negligent actions.
In addition, the discourse reminds us that bathing must be carried out mindfully, without wasting natural resources, and always remembering that the body is a means for practice, not an object of pleasure. Carefulness in every action, gradual and unhurried, is a quality to be cultivated.
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