Upp Pc 35Accepting Two or Three Bowls Full

Explanation of the Dvittipattapūrapaṭiggahaṇa Sutta (Upp Pc 35)

Background

This text is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Training Rules, the Pātimokkha, of the Sangha. The Vinaya Piṭaka is the collection of regulations governing the life of practice of monks and bhikkhunīs, established by the Buddha to protect the Sangha and support the practice of the holy life.

In the context of Theravāda Buddhism, accepting food from laypeople is an important part of daily life. However, not every manner of accepting food is lawful according to the Vinaya. This text refers to a specific situation concerning the acceptance of rice or dry food in a certain quantity, which bhikkhunīs must observe.

The training rules (pācittiya, offenses requiring confession) in the Pātimokkha were taught by the Buddha to educate the mind and maintain the discipline of the Sangha. These rules are not absolute prohibitions, but principles that help monastics cultivate self-control, abandon greed, and nurture humility.

Main Content

This text stipulates that a bhikkhunī should not accept more than two or three full bowls of food, especially rice or dry food, in succession. If someone offers more than this amount, the bhikkhunī should refuse or instruct that person to provide it to other bhikkhunīs or leave it for later.

This rule arises from the principle of non-greed (aloba) and humility in the holy life. The Buddha taught that those gone forth should not store up too much food or accept it without restraint. This is intended to:

First, preserve a mind free from craving and from accumulating possessions beyond what is necessary. Second, create the opportunity for other bhikkhunīs also to receive food, reflecting the spirit of sharing within the Sangha community. Third, educate laypeople in the proper way of offering food, avoiding the creation of unwholesome states (akusala).