Mpt Sk 71Washing Water With Rice

Sasitthaka Sutta: Washing Water Containing Rice

Background

The Sasitthaka Sutta appears in the Pāli Canon, specifically in the Vinaya Piṭaka, in the Samantapāsādikā — the detailed commentary on the rules of training for the Sangha. This sutta concerns practical regulations in the daily life of bhikkhus in the early Buddhist community.

According to the Theravāda tradition, the rules in the Vinaya Piṭaka are not rigid prohibitions, but guidance that helps bhikkhus maintain purity of mind and avoid greed, hatred, and delusion — the three diseases of the mind. The Sasitthaka Sutta is especially connected with matters of hygiene, daily utensils, and the handling of shared property of the Sangha, matters that may seem minor but are very important in practice according to the Noble Eightfold Path.

Main Content

The word “Sasitthaka” (from Pāli sasi = rice, grain + itthaka = washing water or leftover water) refers to washing water mixed with grains of rice or small bits of rice. This sutta deals with the question: is washing water containing leftover rice considered food, and how may bhikkhus use it?

From the Vinaya perspective, washing water containing rice lies in the border area between “permitted rice” (valid food) and “permitted water” (valid drink). Theravāda Buddhism, especially in the monastic community, regulates clearly that this water is not considered a main meal and therefore cannot be used to “replace” a meal. However, if a bhikkhu is thirsty or physically weak, he may drink this water as a supporting beverage.

This rule arises from the principle that bhikkhus must not take additional nourishment outside the permitted time before noon. Rice-washing water, if it contains enough grains of rice, can provide energy, and therefore a clear distinction is needed to avoid violating the Pātimokkha.