San Lo Bu Pm Sk 65On Plants

DISCOURSE ON PLANTS (Hariteuccara)

Background

The discourse "On Plants" (Hariteuccara) is recorded in the Vinaya Pitaka of the Theravada tradition, in order to regulate in detail the actions of bhikkhus and bhikkhunis in the course of studying and practicing the Buddha-Dharma. The Vinaya Pitaka is not merely a set of rules, but an expression of the compassionate wisdom of the Buddha, guiding the Sangha to preserve concentration and avoid harming others.

This context arose when bhikkhus engaged in actions involving plants, grass, trees, and leaves, causing disputes and misunderstandings in the community. The Buddha, seeing the situation, gave specific guidance on how to treat plants, in order to protect the spiritual purity of practitioners and respect natural life.

Main Content

This discourse states that bhikkhus and bhikkhunis must avoid intentionally damaging, cutting, or destroying plants carelessly. In particular, pulling up grasses and plants without a legitimate reason is strictly prohibited. The Vinaya Pitaka distinguishes between actions done with harmful intention, with the intention to destroy, and accidental actions, such as stepping on plants while walking. Intentional acts are regarded as violations of the Patimokkha, the basic virtue of a bhikkhu.

However, the discourse also recognizes exceptions, for example cutting grass to serve an essential need of a sacred place, or applying oil to the body in a way that may affect delicate leaves. These exceptions are clearly defined to avoid excessive rigidity, instead encouraging the application of wisdom (panna) in each specific circumstance.

This legal basis is deeply rooted in the principle of non-killing (ahiṃsa), one of the most fundamental precepts of Buddhism. This shows that Theravada Buddhism values all forms of life, not only beings with clear consciousness but even minimal existences such as plants.