Xct Mu Bi Pm Sk 76Na tate na prapāte na prāgbhāre pātraṁ sthāpayiṣyāma
Pāli / Sanskrit:Na tate na prapāte na prāgbhāre pātraṁ sthāpayiṣyāma
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Explanation of the Na Tate Na Prapāte Sutta
Background
This version of the sutta is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, reflecting rules on disciplinary practice in the early monastic community of the Buddha. The Vinaya Piṭaka is not merely a collection of prohibitions, but a set of instructions that help monks and nuns observe noble conduct, maintain spiritual cleanliness, and build a harmonious community. This sutta appears in the context of communal recitations (Saṅgīti) or disciplinary regulations set forth by the elders (Thera) to protect the integrity of the Dharma.
The Pāli/Sanskrit title “Na tate na prapāte na prāgbhāre pātraṁ sthāpayiṣyāma” (“we will not place the bowl lying down, bent low, or in a lowered position”) reflects concern for the handling of monastic requisites, especially the rice bowl (pātra), a symbol of the bodhisattva path and respect within the Dharma. This is one of the matters the Buddha especially emphasized in the development of wholesome habits.
Main Content
This sutta stipulates that monastics should not place their rice bowl in three disrespectful positions: first, a lying position (tate); second, a low, bent position (prapāte); and third, placing the bowl in a lowered, unworthy position (prāgbhāre). These actions are considered signs of disrespect, lack of right mindfulness, or carelessness in daily activity.
The rice bowl in Theravāda Buddhism is not merely an everyday object. It represents the application of compassion, non-greed, and purity in the way of life. The way we treat small objects reflects the degree of our mindfulness and care. When we place the bowl indifferently or heedlessly, we not only damage material things, but also create habits of thinking that lack right mindfulness.
The Vinaya Piṭaka emphasizes that these small actions, though they may appear ordinary, all contribute to the training of the mind.
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