Xct Mu Bi Pm Sk 44Not prefer one taste

Explanation of the Sutta: Not Preferring One Taste

Background

The text “Not Preferring One Taste” (Not prefer one taste) is part of the Vinaya Piṭaka in the Theravāda tradition of the Buddha-Dharma. The Vinaya Piṭaka records the regulations, customs, and training of the minds of those who have gone forth in the Buddhist Sangha, in order to protect the religious mind and the purity of the monastic community.

This text has been transmitted in the context of ascetic practice and non-attachment in early Buddhist monasteries. The Buddha established these rules so that his students would avoid unnecessary sensual pleasures, thereby nurturing a pure mind and firm concentration.

Main Content

The specific content of this text has not yet been fully translated in the present material. However, based on the general context of the Vinaya Piṭaka, the rule “not preferring one taste” (rasa) is directed toward training a spirit of non-discrimination and freedom from personal preference in eating and enjoying food.

This is part of the practice of indriya-saṃvara, restraint of the sense faculties. Monks and bhikkhunīs are encouraged not to pay attention to choosing the taste of food, whether delicious or ordinary, because this liking and disliking is the root of greed (lobha) and sensual craving (kāma-taṇhā).

When a monastic no longer “prefers” any particular taste, the mind is not stimulated by minor distinctions, and that person draws nearer to balance and immovability (upekkhā). This rule also aims to avoid unnecessary disputes within the monastic community, where if certain persons favor particular flavors, unfairness in the distribution of food may result.

Practical Meaning

The principle of “not preferring one taste” is not only a rule of behavioral discipline, but also a profound training of the mind. It reflects the core of Theravāda Buddhism: breaking the chains of craving and enjoyment.