Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Pc 23Eating at the Wrong Time
Pāli / Sanskrit:Vikālabhojana
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SCRIPTURE ON EATING AT THE WRONG TIME (VIKĀLABHOJANA)
Background
The Vikālabhojana scripture belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of Theravāda Buddhism, specifically within the Pātimokkha, the basic ethical rules that bhikkhus must observe. In the Theravāda tradition, the rule on eating at the wrong time, eating after midday until the following morning, is listed among the important regulations in the practice of discipline.
In the time of Buddha Śākyamuni, renunciant disciples were taught by him to maintain discipline in eating in order to support the mind in practice. This was not repression or meaningless austerity, but a means (upāya) to help practitioners focus the mind, lessen the pull of desires, and train the will. He saw that eating freely at all hours allowed cravings to develop strongly, especially cravings connected with food and material pleasure.
Main Content
The Vikālabhojana rule states that bhikkhus should not eat solid food, nourishing foods such as rice, bread, or staple foods, after the time of noon, that is, from midday, around 12 noon, until the next morning. However, light drinks such as orange juice, sugarcane juice, milk, honey mixed with water, or permitted substances such as medicine may still be used to maintain health.
The reason behind this rule does not lie in absolute prohibition, but focuses on the management of the mind. The Vinaya teaches that continuous eating not only slows down spiritual digestion, but also creates conditions for thoughts related to the wish for attractive food, corruption in seeking food, and loss of concentration in meditation. This rule also practically supports bodily health, allowing the digestive system sufficient rest.
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