Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Np 24Asking for Money
Pāli / Sanskrit:Asking for money
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THE DISCOURSE ON ASKING FOR MONEY
Explanation According to the Traditional Pāli Vinaya Piṭaka
Background
This passage is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha, the code of training for bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs. The Vinaya Piṭaka is not a set of philosophical teachings, but practical instructions issued by the Buddha to maintain discipline and purity in the monastery community.
In the context of early Buddhism, the issue of asking for money was a significant concern. Bhikkhus depended on offerings from worldly people in order to live. However, the Buddha saw that directly asking for money by speech could lead to conduct inconsistent with ethics: enticement, deception, or actions that cause trust in the Sangha to be lost. Therefore, he established a clear rule on this matter.
Main Content
According to the Vinaya Piṭaka, a bhikkhu is not permitted to directly ask laypeople for money or silver, for any reason. This is one of the basic rules of life intended to maintain purity (śīla) and spiritual independence.
The reason the Buddha issued this rule is profound. Money is bound up with ambition, greed, and worldly desires. If those gone forth directly ask for money, they will be drawn into complex relationships with patients or donors, easily leading to embezzlement, disputes, or dishonest actions. Instead, the Buddha encouraged those gone forth to depend on voluntary offerings from the lay community.
This rule also reflects a basic principle: a bhikkhu should concentrate on practicing the Dharma, not worrying about material livelihood. If there is a heart that seeks the Buddha-Dharma, worldly people will naturally offer support. This is a test of faith and of relinquishing worldly desires.
Practical Meaning
This discourse teaches us an important lesson about purity in action and intention.
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