Bi Pc 5454. Eating more after refusing an offer
Pāli / Sanskrit:Pavārita
A nun who eats after finishing her meal must confess the offense.
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Commentary on the Pavārita Rule — Eating in Excess After Refusing
Background
The Pavārita rule is found in the Pātimokkha of the Bhikkhunī Piṭaka (the Nuns' Disciplinary Code), which constitutes the section of Vinaya governing the daily-life regulations of ordained Buddhist women. The Pātimokkha, known as the "Fundamental Rules" in the Theravāda tradition, comprises the essential precepts that guide monastics in practicing the Dhamma independently and in directing their minds fully toward cultivation.
This rule arises in the context of bhikkhunīs living in community and sharing meals together. In India during the time of the Buddha, meals were conducted according to a specific protocol: upon finishing a meal, a bhikkhunī would decline further food by declaring that she was satisfied — pavārita, meaning "having refused" or "having concluded." However, if, after making such a declaration, she proceeded to eat more, this was considered a breach of the monastic rules.
Main Content
The Pavārita rule stipulates that a bhikkhunī who, having completed her meal and declared herself satisfied (pavārita), nonetheless continues to eat any further food, must confess a transgression (Pācittiya). This is a lighter offense than a Pārājika (a defeat offense) or a Saṅghādisesa (an offense requiring formal resolution by the Sangha), yet it still requires acknowledgment of wrongdoing and confession before a witness.
This rule concerns not only eating but also reflects deeper principles of mental discipline and integrity in action. Pavārita is an act of declaration — a commitment made to oneself and to the monastic community. In declining food, a monastic is in fact training in resolve, honesty, and the ability to restrain desire. If, after refusing, one continues to eat, this reveals an unsettled mind, dishonesty in speech, and desire not yet brought under control.
Practical Significance
From the perspective of contemporary practice, the Pavārita rule teaches us about the importance of personal commitment and honesty.
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