Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Pd 6Asking for Fish
Pāli / Sanskrit:Macchaviññāpana
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Explanation of the “Macchaviññāpana” Sutra (Asking for Fish)
Background
The “Macchaviññāpana” Sutra (Asking for Fish) is one of the detailed rules in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. It is part of the Pātimokkha, the basic code of discipline that bhikkhus must carefully observe. This sutra is preserved in ancient Sanskrit translations and in Vinaya texts transmitted through Eastern traditions.
The background of the sutra concerns events in the life of the Buddha Śākyamuni while he was leading the Sangha in the city of Sāvatthī. These events led the Blessed Buddha to state rules about the proper conduct of bhikkhus, in order to maintain discipline in the Sangha and guide disciples in ethical practice.
Main Content
This sutra refers to a specific situation involving bhikkhus asking laypeople for fish. However, the expression “asking for fish” (macchaviññāpana) here does not simply refer to requesting a kind of food, but points to a deeper issue: violation of the spirit of practice and discipline.
According to the principles of the Vinaya Piṭaka, bhikkhus are not to actively request or ask for articles beyond what is necessary for minimal living, such as robes, alms bowl, drinking water, and lodging. Asking for fish, or for any kind of food not voluntarily offered by laypeople, is considered a violation of the Pātimokkha.
The sutra records that some bhikkhus, because of desire or ignorance, asked people for fish. This created an unfavorable image of the Sangha and caused difficulties in the management of discipline. When the Blessed Buddha learned of the matter, he proclaimed a rule (Pācittiya) forbidding this action, and prescribed that any bhikkhu who violated it must undergo recitation or disciplinary action (pabbājanīya kamma), a disciplinary measure within the Sangha.
Practical Meaning
The “Macchaviññāpana” Sutra carries profound meaning concerning the restraint of ambition and desire.
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