Xct Mu Bu Vb Sk 59Not prefer one grain
Pāli / Sanskrit:Not prefer one grain
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Commentary on the Discourse “Not Discriminating Among Kinds of Grain”
Background
This discourse is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Sutta Vibhaṅga belonging to the Bhikkhunī Pātimokkha, the code of discipline for bhikkhunīs. These are detailed regulations of Theravāda Buddhism, recorded in the form of specific incidents that arose within the Sangha.
The background of the discourse concerns rice, grain, and the way different kinds of food are distinguished in the monastery. In early Buddhism, bhikkhunīs had to follow strict rules concerning food, not only regarding quantity but also quality and preparation. This rule arose from the need to maintain simplicity, avoid greed, and manage communal property fairly.
Main Content
The discourse “Not Discriminating Among Kinds of Grain” teaches that bhikkhunīs should not distinguish or prefer one kind of grain or food over another. If the monastic community receives various kinds of provisions, each nun must accept whatever is distributed, without showing dislike or requesting a special kind.
The central point of this rule is the principle of samatā, equality and non-discrimination. When a bhikkhunī shows preference for one kind of food over another, this violates the spirit of the Dharma because it reflects greed (lobha) and attachment (upādāna). This is not a fault of misusing food, but a fault in mental attitude, an approach to food unsuited to the renunciant life.
The rule states that if a bhikkhunī disparages or rejects a kind of grain or food that has been equally provided for all, this is a violation. Instead, the proper conduct is to receive all food that has been distributed with an even mind, gratitude, and without discrimination.
Practical Meaning
This discourse teaches a profound lesson about sukha pabbajitā, the practitioner who has gone forth for the purpose of liberation, not in search of comfort or the satisfaction of desires.
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