San Lo Bi Pn 24Boil-Concealing

Boil-Concealing Discourse — San Lo Bi Pn 24

Background

This discourse is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, specifically in the section of related rules. Its content revolves around actions that violate the Vinaya within the community of bhikkhus, the early monastics of primitive Buddhism.

The background arose when members of the Sangha suffered wounds or illnesses, specifically boils (gaṇḍa, boils, ulcers, or swellings) appearing on the body. These monks sought to conceal their illness by subtle means in order to avoid observing the rules about seeking permission or receiving appropriate treatment as prescribed in the Vinaya Piṭaka. This discourse records the way monks violated the rule by concealing illness, thereby establishing a specific rule concerning the nature of the offense and its disciplinary penalty.

Main Content

According to the principle of the Vinaya, when members of the Sangha have an illness, they need to declare it clearly to the community or to the monks in charge in order to follow the rules of treatment and not violate regulations related to medicine, food, or activities of practice. However, some monks used subtle means to hide their illness, perhaps by appearing outwardly normal, covering the wound with clothing, or refusing to report it to other monks.

This discourse identifies the act of “concealing a boil” (gaṇḍa-praticchādana) as a specific offense. It is not among the gravest offenses (Pārājika or Saṁghādisesa), but among lighter offenses (Pācittiya or Dukkaṭa) connected with dishonesty and deception within the Sangha community. This conduct violates basic principles: clarity, respect for the community, and compliance with necessary medical regulations.

Practical Meaning

The profound meaning of this discourse lies in its emphasis on the necessity of truthfulness (saccakiriyā) within the community of practice.