San Lo Bu Pm Sk 35Licking the Bowl

EXPLANATION OF THE PATTANILLEHAKA DISCOURSE

(Discourse on Licking the Bowl)

Background

The Pattanillehaka discourse is a rule found in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, the Pāli Canon. This discourse belongs to the detailed regulations on discipline in eating (āhāra-parisuddhi) for monastics, reflecting the Buddha’s deep concern for every subtle detail in daily practice. The background of this discourse arose when the Buddha witnessed improper behavior by some disciples and from that laid down training rules suitable to the principles of the Dharma.

The Vinaya Piṭaka is not merely a set of dry prohibitions, but guidance for monastics to cultivate mindfulness, self-discipline, and true virtuous conduct. The Pattanillehaka discourse specifically addresses attitudes toward food and the alms bowl during meals, an important part of daily life in the monastic community.

Main Content

The Pattanillehaka discourse reminds monastics that they should not lick the bowl after finishing a meal (Patta nillehaka: patta means bowl, nillehaka means licking). This action may arise from greed for food or lack of mindfulness, and is considered conduct not in keeping with the virtue of a renunciant.

This regulation is not because leftover food is bad or should not be consumed, but because it reflects an unsuitable mental attitude. When a monastic licks the bowl in order to get every last bit, they may be nurturing greed (lobha), or showing a lack of respect for an object of practice. The bowl (patta) is not only a material tool but also a symbol of humility and self-discipline.

Furthermore, this action may affect how the outside community perceives monastics. If food donors see a monastic licking the bowl greedily, this may lessen their religious faith. Therefore, this regulation also protects the relationship between monastics and the lay community (upāsaka/upāsikā).