San Mu Bu Pm GBM 3 Sk 60Nāvarṇakārakaṁ paribhokṣyāma

Exposition of the Nāvarṇakārakaṁ Paribhokṣyāma Sutta

Background

The Nāvarṇakārakaṁ paribhokṣyāma Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, the foundation of the Buddhadharma in the Early Buddhist tradition. The Vinaya Piṭaka records the ethical and disciplinary rules established by the Buddha for the monastic community (Sangha) in order to maintain purity and harmony within the community.

The title of this sutta conveys the meaning of “nine kinds (or classifications) of use” (nāvarṇa = nine; kāra = forming; paribhokṣyāma = shall use/consume). It is part of the detailed regulations concerning how monastics may use the self-sufficient daily requisites, especially the items necessary for the renunciant life.

The historical context of these rules arose when monks encountered specific situations in practice, and the Buddha taught step by step to prevent errors or misuse. From there the rules were systematized, becoming the foundation of the Vinaya Piṭaka.

Main Content

The Nāvarṇakārakaṁ paribhokṣyāma Sutta concerns classifications and principles in the use of necessary items by monastics. Although the specific content of this sutta has not been fully translated, based on the context of the Vinaya Piṭaka it may refer to restrictions and ethical standards surrounding the use of property, food, or other items.

In the Early tradition, the Buddhadharma emphasizes “wise conduct” (ājīvaka)—a simple way of living without waste. The items a monk is permitted to possess are wisely limited: three robes (tìparisā), an eating bowl (patta), a small bed, and basic hygiene items. Anything beyond these essential needs is regarded as attachment to material things, contrary to the spirit of renunciation.