San Mu Bu Pm GBM 3 Sk 78Na nadyāḥ pratisrotaḥ pātrodakaṁ grahīṣyāma
Pāli / Sanskrit:Na nadyāḥ pratisrotaḥ pātrodakaṁ grahīṣyāma
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Interpretation of the Na Nadyāḥ Pratisrotaḥ Discourse
Background
This discourse belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, one of the oldest bodies of literature recording the rules of conduct and training of the Sangha. The descriptive information shows that this is a regulation related to the management of communal property, specifically the use of water and daily requisites in the monastic community.
In the context of Theravāda Buddhism, the Vinaya Piṭaka is not merely a set of disciplinary rules, but also an expression of the Noble Eightfold Path, especially Right Action. The regulations in the Vinaya Piṭaka are built upon the principle of protecting monastics from harmful actions, maintaining purity, and establishing harmony in the community. This discourse specifically concerns the use of shared property, especially drinking water (pātrodaka) from rivers (nadyāḥ), whether downstream or against the current (pratisrotaḥ).
Main Content
The title "Na nadyāḥ pratisrotaḥ pātrodakaṁ grahīṣyāma" may be understood as: "We shall not take drinking water from rivers against the current." This is a practical regulation intended to protect communal property and maintain order in the management of shared resources.
In the ancient monastic context, rivers and shared water sources were property of the whole Sangha community. "Taking water against the current" may imply taking water in a manner contrary to common convention or failing to follow the established order. This regulation reflects the principle of what is beneficial (Karaniyatthaṁ): every action of a monastic should be carried out with awareness of interdependence and the common good of the Sangha body.
This discourse is a typical example of how the Vinaya Piṭaka governs everyday matters. It is not an absolute prohibition, but guidance for action intended to avoid conflict and maintain discipline. Observing such small regulations reflects an awareness of respect for communal property and for the other members of the community.
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