Xct Mu Bi Pc 119Scents and Colors

Explanation of the Gandhavaṇṇaka Discourse (Scents and Colors)

Background

The Gandhavaṇṇaka discourse (Scents and Colors) is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, especially in the Pātimokkha section, or the collected rules of the Sangha. This discourse was recorded in the context of the Buddha and his disciples practicing in various regions, where questions relating to monastic requisites, especially objects with fragrance or color, were considered according to the spirit of the teaching of the Path.

In the Theravāda tradition, the Vinaya Piṭaka is not only a code of discipline, but also a direct expression of the Buddha’s deep understanding of human psychology, latent desires, and the pure practice needed to be liberated from these bonds. The matter of fragrance and color concerns unusual indulgences or latent desires that a monastic must avoid.

Main Content

The Gandhavaṇṇaka discourse deals with rules concerning the use of fragrant substances or specially colored items that monastics might use or adorn themselves with. In the spirit of the Vinaya Piṭaka, the Buddha restricted actions that could lead to attachment to aspects of greed or to the development of habits unsuitable for the life of practice.

Specifically, these regulations concern the fact that a monastic should not use perfumes, scented oils, or other adornments for the purpose of enhancing beauty or attracting attention. This is not because such things are bad in themselves, but because the motive for using them often arises from craving, liking, or desires connected with self-regard. Beauty (vaṇṇa) and fragrance (gandha) can both become conditions that stimulate latent desires.

The Vinaya Piṭaka makes clear that monastics should live simply, using only what is necessary to sustain life and practice the Dharma. Each rule in the Pātimokkha has a story, a concrete example in the lives of the disciples from which the Buddha gave instruction.