Lzh Sarv Bi Vb Sk 58Receiving Respectfully
Pāli / Sanskrit:Sakkaccapaṭiggahaṇa
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Sakkaccapaṭiggahaṇa Sutta (Receiving Respectfully)
Background
The Sakkaccapaṭiggahaṇa Sutta is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, in the Vibhaṅga of the disciplinary texts for bhikkhunīs. This sutta concerns an ethical rule related to the manner of receiving requisites, especially food, clothing, and other necessities in the life of practice.
During the Buddha’s lifetime, the bhikkhunī community lived by alms and by receiving offerings from laypeople. This manner of receiving was not arbitrary, but had to follow principles of respect (sakkacca), careful attention (appamāda), and ethics. This rule helps protect the purity of bhikkhunīs and avoid actions that could be misunderstood or give rise to impropriety.
Main Content
Sakkaccapaṭiggahaṇa means “receiving respectfully” or “receiving with careful attention.” This sutta states that when bhikkhunīs receive anything from devotees, they must do so with a dignified, courteous attitude and full attention.
Specifically, a bhikkhunī must not receive carelessly or heedlessly. When receiving food, clothing, or other items, she needs to know clearly the origin of the item, its purpose of use, and whether it is in accord with the bhikkhunī’s discipline. If an offered item is unsuitable or unnecessary for practice, the bhikkhunī has the responsibility to decline it politely.
This principle also concerns the maintenance of purity and simplicity in the relationship between bhikkhunīs and the lay community. By receiving offerings respectfully, bhikkhunīs show respect, an understanding of the value of what is offered, and concentration on the goal of cultivating the Path (Dhamma).
Practical Meaning
Sakkaccapaṭiggahaṇa is not only a rule of outward conduct, but also reflects a profound spiritual state.
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