Lzh Sarv Bu Vb Np 17Getting a Nun to Wash Wool
Pāli / Sanskrit:Eḷakalomadhovāpana
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Eḷakalomadhovāpana Sutta — Having a Nun Wash Wool
Background
This text is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga (Analysis of the Rules for Nuns), where the pācittiya offenses for monastics are prescribed. The Vinaya Piṭaka consists of the teachings on communal discipline established by the Buddha in order to maintain purity of conduct in the Sangha.
This case arose from a specific situation in the Buddha’s time. Some nuns were assigned ordinary daily labor, such as washing garments and caring for monastery requisites, tasks necessary for maintaining the life of one gone forth (pabbajitā). However, when female renunciants were asked or compelled to perform tasks that were too burdensome or unsuitable to monastic custom, this could lead to discouragement or loss of focus in practicing the true Dharma.
The Eḷakalomadhovāpana Sutta concerns asking a nun to wash wool (eḷakalomadhova), a rather heavy task requiring considerable strength and time. This is a typical example of circumstances requiring balance and wisdom in handling requests for labor within the Sangha.
Main Content
In the spirit of the Vinaya Piṭaka, asking a nun to do heavy manual labor without due consideration is regarded as an offense, a violation of the balance between spiritual practice and practical responsibility. This is especially important because the purpose of going forth is so that monastics may have the time and mental space to:
Practice meditation (bhāvanā), cultivate wisdom (paññā), and develop virtue (sīla).
Participate in communal work serving the Sangha, but not be overburdened in a way that affects personal practice.
The text prescribes that assigning heavy tasks such as washing wool to nuns must be based on willingness (icchahattha, one’s own consent) and proper consideration. If a nun is asked to perform work beyond her capacity, or if the burden is not minimized, this is an infringement upon her rights and upon the stability of the place of practice.
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