Bi Pc 99. Disposing of waste on plants
Pāli / Sanskrit:Harituccārachaḍḍana
A nun who disposes of feces, urine, or rubbish on cultivated plants must confess the offense.
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Harituccārachaḍḍana - The Pacittiya Rule on Discarding Waste onto Plants
Background
This text is recorded in the Bhikkhunī Pātimokkha (the code of rules), the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. It reflects a set of disciplinary rules established specifically for Bhikkhunīs (nuns), female renunciants who have gone forth under the Dhamma of the Blessed One Gotama.
The historical context of this rule is connected to the Buddha's establishment of training rules based on actual situations arising within the monastic community of monks and nuns. The Bhikkhunīs lived together in vihāras (monasteries) and were required to observe rules aimed at maintaining cleanliness, showing respect toward householders and landowners, and cultivating mental discipline. This rule addresses matters of hygiene and respect for the property of others, particularly cultivated plants of economic value.
The term "Harituccāra" (action upon green plants) refers to plants cultivated for agricultural purposes or for the livelihood of householders. The rule teaches the responsibility of nuns in protecting such property.
Main Content
According to the Bhikkhunī Pātimokkha, if a Bhikkhunī discards excrement, urine, or other waste matter directly onto cultivated plants—such as vegetables, fruit trees, or rice crops belonging to laypeople—such an action is regarded as a Pācittiya offence, a transgression requiring confession (pāpitiyya) before the Saṅgha or before other nuns.
There are several reasons underlying this rule. First, it is a matter of respect for the livelihood of householders. Bhikkhunīs depend upon the offerings of the laity; any action that damages the produce of others constitutes a violation of basic ethical principles. Second, it reflects the principle of non-harm (ahiṃsā) within the Dhamma—one must refrain from causing damage to the property and livelihoods of others. Third, from the standpoint of hygiene, the discarding of excrement or urine onto cultivated plants may contaminate food and spread disease.
This rule encompasses the discarding of refuse, litter, and other waste matter as well. It embodies the spirit of Sīla.
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