San Mu Bu Pm GBM 3 Sk 44Na anāgate khādanīyabhojanīye pātram upanāmayiṣyāma

Exposition of the Na anāgate khādanīyabhojanīye pātram upanāmayiṣyāma Sutta

Background

This passage appears in the Vinaya Piṭaka, the collection of training rules and regulations governing the actions of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs according to the Early tradition. The Vinaya Piṭaka is not only a set of prohibitions, but a system of training that helps monastics strengthen discipline, focus the mind, and develop wisdom.

This sutta reflects specific situations in monastic life, when the Buddha and his disciples encountered practical issues concerning the use of requisites, especially objects related to eating and drinking. The historical context shows that these rules arose from specific events: when a bhikkhu transgressed or caused controversy, the Buddha established the corresponding instruction.

Main Content

The text “Na anāgate khādanīyabhojanīye pātram upanāmayiṣyāma” may be understood as: “One must not put forth the bowl for food to be eaten in the future,” or “One must not set out the bowl to contain food for later.” This is a rule related to the practice of eating and the management of the Sangha’s daily implements.

In the monastic context, “khādanīya-bhojanīya” (food to be chewed and swallowed) refers to main foods, distinct from other light foods. This rule relates to the principle of not storing surplus food and not accumulating too many possessions, helping monastics maintain humility and diligence in training.

This also reflects the Buddhist principle of self-mastery and non-attachment to material things. When a bhikkhu knows that he may not set aside his bowl to eat later, he learns to eat just enough, without greed and without wasting food—matters very important in the practice of reducing craving and developing compassion for others.

Practical Meaning

Although this rule was originally directed toward bhikkhus in monasteries, it contains profound lessons for all who study and practice.