Lzh Sarv Bu Vb Pc 38Storing Food
Pāli / Sanskrit:Sannidhikāraka
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Sannidhikāraka Discourse: The Rule on Storing Food
Background
The Sannidhikāraka discourse, from sannidhikāra, meaning storage or accumulation, is one of the detailed rules in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, belonging to the Pātimokkha Saṃvara, the set of precepts. This discourse arose from specific situations in early monastic life, when bhikkhus depended on offerings from the people.
During the Buddha’s lifetime, bhikkhus lived according to the discipline of patience and each day went on almsround to obtain their single meal. However, some bhikkhus began storing food in their private rooms, keeping reserves for later days. This violated the spirit of daily almsround and created distinctions among bhikkhus, between those able to store food and those unable to do so. Seeing these consequences, the Buddha established rules concerning the storing of food.
Main Content
The Sannidhikāraka discourse states that bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs are not permitted to store food (annaṃ, bhojjanaṃ) in their private rooms beyond the prescribed time, usually one day and night or one night and day depending on the type of food. Foods are divided into different categories: hard food, soft food, and other foods.
This rule aims to prevent excessive accumulation and protect the spirit of loving-kindness (mettā) in the monastery. If a bhikkhu stores too much food, he may refuse to share with those who are sick or in need, or create pride around possession. The discourse allows legitimate exceptions: a sick bhikkhu may store food during illness, or when there is permission from the Sangha.
The offense under this rule is classified as Pācittiya, a light offense requiring confession. If a bhikkhu unintentionally stores food beyond the allowed time, he must confess the fault and repent before the Sangha or a teacher.
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