Bu Pd 11. The training rule on receiving a nun’s food
Pāli / Sanskrit:Paṭhamapāṭidesanīya
A monk who receives food from a nun must acknowledge the offense.
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Commentary on Paṭhamapāṭidesanīya
The Training Rule on Receiving Food from a Bhikkhunī
Background
The Paṭhamapāṭidesanīya is the first among the Pāṭidesanīya rules (Parivāra — the Supplementary Section of the Vinaya Piṭaka), belonging to the Theravāda tradition. In the early history of the Saṅgha, as Buddhism grew and the order of monastics was established, the need to clearly regulate the proper relationship between bhikkhus (monks) and bhikkhunīs (nuns) became apparent.
The act of receiving food from a bhikkhunī raised questions concerning purity in practice. This is not a matter of sexual ethics, but rather pertains to monastic discipline (Vinaya) and the maintenance of the community's trust. This teaching was given by the Buddha in order to protect the dignity of both the order of monks and the order of nuns, as well as the Dhamma itself.
Main Content
The specific rule set forth in the Paṭhamapāṭidesanīya stipulates: if a bhikkhu receives food directly from the hands of a bhikkhunī (rather than through other persons), he must acknowledge (paṭidesanīya — pattidesan) his offence before the Saṅgha or before another bhikkhu.
This is not regarded as a fundamental violation of the Pātimokkha, but rather a lighter training rule intended to prevent suspicion or scandal. The primary reason is to avoid situations in which overly familiar interaction between bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs might bring harm to the reputation of the Saṅgha, or be misunderstood by those outside the faith.
The Buddha taught that a bhikkhu must be careful in all his actions. The act of voluntarily acknowledging an offence (paṭidesanā) reflects an attitude of integrity and respect for the Vinaya. This is a mild form of pācittiya (confession requiring expiation), consistent with the principle that practice is not merely about outward action, but also about clarity of mind and self-awareness.
Practical Significance
The Paṭhamapāṭidesanīya is not an absolute prohibition, but rather a wise counsel.
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