Mpt Np 22An Almsbowl With Fewer Than Five Mends
Pāli / Sanskrit:Ūnapañcabandhana
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Ūnapañcabandhana Sutra: An Almsbowl Repaired in Fewer Than Five Places
Background
The Ūnapañcabandhana Sutra (ūna = deficient, less than; pañca = five; bandhana = binding or mending place) is found in the Bhikkhunī Pātimokkha, the chapter for bhikkhunīs in the Vinaya Piṭaka. It is one of the most detailed disciplinary texts concerning the regulation of clothing and especially the almsbowl, a basic implement in the life of a bhikkhu or bhikkhunī.
In the Theravāda tradition, the Buddha established practical rules not only for discipline but also to educate his disciples in thrift, responsibility toward communal Sangha property, and initiative in practice. The almsbowl is not a luxury item but a sacred implement serving a humble and focused way of life.
Main Content
The text prescribes that an almsbowl is considered usable when it has been repaired (bandhana) in fewer than five places. The expression “fewer than five places” means that the damaged areas of the bowl, such as cracks or broken edges, have been repaired by proper binding or adhesive, but the number of bindings does not exceed four.
If a bowl needs repair in five or more places, or if the repairs make the bowl no longer safe for receiving alms, then the bowl is considered not worth keeping. Instead, the bhikkhu must relinquish the old bowl and accept a new bowl from the Sangha or from a worthy donor.
This rule reflects a core principle of Buddhist discipline: the requisites of the Sangha must be maintained with standards of cleanliness, safety, and respect. This is not for refinement or luxury, but because it concerns the diligence in practice of each individual and of the Sangha as a whole.
Practical Meaning
The Ūnapañcabandhana Sutra teaches us a profound lesson about “knowing when to stop” (moderation) and “not clinging” (non-attachment).
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