Bi Sk 2929. Not receiving in the right proportions
Pāli / Sanskrit:Samasūpakapaṭiggahaṇa
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The Samasūpakapaṭiggahaṇa Sutta — On Not Receiving in the Right Proportions
Background
This text appears in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga (the Analysis of the Discipline for Nuns). The historical background records that the Buddha set forth regulations for monastics to observe after becoming aware of specific situations arising within the religious community. This text concerns the matter of how property is received—particularly food and offerings within the Sangha—with the aim of maintaining fairness and discipline in the monastic community.
The word samasūpaka means "in equal proportion" (sama = equal, ūpaka = proportion), while paṭiggahaṇa means "receiving, accepting." The title thus carries the meaning of not receiving offerings or food in the proper equal proportion, but rather with discrimination, partiality, or abuse.
Main Content
In the Vinaya Piṭaka, regulations concerning the receiving of property are regarded as a matter of great importance. The Samasūpakapaṭiggahaṇa aims to point out that when a bhikkhunī receives material support—whether food, robes, or implements for practice—she must do so in a fair and impartial manner.
Specifically, if a certain quantity of goods is designated for the Sangha, each member of the community should receive an equal share, rather than allowing some individuals or those with close personal connections to receive more. Failure to observe this principle is considered an offense, giving rise to injustice, eroding trust, and breaking the harmony of the Sangha.
This rule reflects a profound philosophy of Theravāda Buddhism: the Three Jewels—the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha—can flourish only when there is equality and justice. Every monastic member is equal within the Sangha; regardless of age or merit, each person is worthy of support in a fair manner. This is not a demand for rigid mechanical equality, but rather a spiritual principle of fairness and compassion.
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