Xct Mu Bi Sk 65Licking the Hands

Explanation of the Hatthanillehaka Discourse (Licking the Hands)

Context

The Hatthanillehaka discourse appears in the Vinaya Pitaka, in the Pātimokkha section of the Theravāda tradition of the Buddha Dharma. This is a collection of disciplinary rules (Sīla) intended to protect the ethical conduct of bhikkhus, bhikkhunīs, and those participating in practice within the Sangha community.

According to the historical context, this discourse is recorded in relation to a specific situation that occurred during the lifetime of the Buddha Gotama (Gautama). Some bhikkhus behaved without solemnity in their dealings with others, especially by licking the hand or touching another person’s body impolitely. This action, though it may seem minor, reflects a lack of respect and mindfulness (Sati), and may offend others, thereby affecting harmony in the Sangha and negatively affecting the image of Buddhism.

Main Content

The Hatthanillehaka discourse states that bhikkhus should not lick their own hands or the hands of others, nor should they engage in impolite actions involving the body. This is not a major offense leading to Pārājika (immediate defeat), but a Dukkata, a minor fault requiring confession and correction.

The reason for this prohibition lies in the basic principle of the Vinaya Pitaka: protecting the discipline of the Sangha and maintaining respect for oneself and others. Licking the hands may be regarded as:

First, an expression of loss of bodily control (Kāya). According to Theravāda Buddhism, monastics must always be aware of their actions, speech, and thoughts through Satipatthāna, the foundations of mindfulness.

Second, this action may cause discomfort or laughter among those nearby, diminishing the dignity of the monastic and the work of practice.

Third, this is an educational means for training mental self-discipline, helping monastics develop Sīla (morality) and Samādhi (concentration).