Xct Mu Bu Vb Sk 40Receiving Respectfully

THE DISCOURSE ON RECEIVING RESPECTFULLY (SAKKACCAPAṬIGGAHAṆA)

Context

Sakkaccapaṭiggahaṇa — from sakkacca (mindful, careful) and paṭiggahaṇa (receiving) — is one of the regulations in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Sukkavibhaṅga, the separate rules of the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga. This rule concerns the proper and respectful way in which bhikkhunīs receive offerings from laymen and laywomen.

In the context of the Theravāda Vinaya Piṭaka, “receiving respectfully” is not merely a physical act, but also reflects ethics and the spirit of practice. The regulations in the Vinaya Piṭaka were developed to protect the community of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs, maintain the purity of the Sangha, and build the confidence of the people. This rule is especially concerned with how bhikkhunīs practice mindfulness in daily interactions with outsiders.

Main Content

The rule of sakkaccapaṭiggahaṇa states that when a bhikkhunī receives daily requisites, food, or any form of offering from laypeople, she must do so carefully, mindfully, and respectfully. This means:

First, the bhikkhunī must not receive prohibited items or things inappropriate to her path. She needs to examine whether what is offered is proper and in accordance with the rule.

Second, the receiving must be done with a grateful mind and without abusing the generosity of donors. This reflects the basic principle of humility and non-greed in Buddhist practice.

Third, the manner of receiving also expresses respect toward the donor. A careful and solemn act of receiving helps encourage the spirit of giving and builds a trusting relationship between the Sangha and the community of those who offer from faith.