Lzh Sarv Upali 14Questions on Medicines

Sūtra of Questions on Medicines (Bhesajjapucchā)

Background

The Bhesajjapucchā Sūtra belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, an essential part of the Theravāda Pāli Canon. The sūtra is recorded in the setting of the Buddha leading the Sangha at Jetavana, Anāthapiṇḍika’s grove. The account begins when bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs ask questions about the use of medicines in meditation practice and in the life of the monastery.

The Vinaya Piṭaka is not merely a dry set of disciplinary rules, but also profound practical guidance on how to maintain body, mind, and ethics within the monastic community. The Bhesajjapucchā Sūtra is especially important because it reflects the Buddha’s attitude toward physical health as a supporting condition for spiritual practice.

Main Content

In this sūtra, the bhikkhus ask questions about four kinds of medicine (bhesajja) that the Buddha permitted for use: rice and broth (odana), gruel or meat broth (yagu), butter (navanīta), and oil (taila). The questions focus on specific situations: when they may be used, under what conditions, and whether such use violates the rules of monastic discipline.

The Buddha does not oppose caring for the health of the body. Instead, he gives detailed guidance on how medicines may be used lawfully and without harm. This attitude reflects the principle of the “middle way” (majjhimāpaṭipadā), avoiding the extremes of self-mortification and materialism. Maintaining health is regarded as necessary so that the path of practice may continue.

The sūtra also refers to rules concerning the storage, preparation, and use of medicines so that there is neither waste nor disregard for discipline. These instructions are not rigid calculation, but guidance filled with compassion, allowing bhikkhus to protect their health while still maintaining the ethical principles of the Sangha community.