Lzh Sarv Bu Pm Pc 37Eating at the Wrong Time

The Sutta on Eating at the Wrong Time (Vikālabhojana)

Background

This rule is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha of the bhikkhus (Bhikkhupātimokkha). The Vinaya Piṭaka is the collection of disciplinary rules established by the Buddha Gotama for the monastic community to maintain purity, discipline, and harmony in the Sangha.

The rule prohibiting eating at the wrong time (Vikālabhojana) is classed among the Pācittiya rules, offenses requiring confession. This rule reflects the Buddha’s wisdom in regulating the collective life of monastics, directing their minds toward meditation and awakening while avoiding tendencies of craving in eating.

According to the Theravāda tradition, the “proper time” (kāla) for eating a main meal is from sunrise until noon. From the afternoon onward is called the “wrong time” (vikāla), and bhikkhus should not eat staple foods during this period.

Main Content

This rule prescribes that bhikkhus who have received the discipline must observe the proper time for eating. If a bhikkhu intentionally eats rice, staple food, or substantial nourishment at the wrong time — not because of illness, special necessity, or medicinal purpose — that bhikkhu has committed a pācittiya offense.

However, the Vinaya Piṭaka also includes practical exceptions. If a bhikkhu is ill, or if there are special circumstances, such as travel or participation in important ceremonies, eating at the wrong time may be permitted. Certain kinds of drinks, such as fruit juices and nut drinks, are not prohibited during the vikāla period because they are not considered “staple food.”

This rule emphasizes self-restraint (sīla) in daily conduct and the personal responsibility of each bhikkhu toward the Dharma. The offense must be acknowledged and confessed before the Sangha.