Bu Sk 2929. Not receiving in the right proportions
Pāli / Sanskrit:Samasūpakapaṭiggahaṇa
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Commentary on the Samasūpakapaṭiggahaṇa
Background
The Samasūpakapaṭiggahaṇa ("Not Receiving in the Right Proportions") belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, the book of discipline governing the organization of the Theravāda Buddhist Sangha. In the Theravāda tradition, the Vinaya Piṭaka is not merely a collection of dry rules, but a set of practical guidelines arising from specific situations during the lifetime of the Buddha. Each rule was established in order to protect the spirit of the Dharma, maintain harmony within the Sangha, and help monks practice correctly.
This text centers on the matter of receiving goods, possessions, or acts of practice in a manner not in accordance with the proper proportion, standard, or suitability. The circumstances from which it arose may relate to monks receiving gifts or offerings from laypeople, or to ways of practice not in conformity with the principles taught by the Buddha. This rule ensures that the Sangha does not deviate from the right path of the Dharma, and that each of its members practices with appropriate diligence and self-awareness.
Main Content
The rule of "not receiving in the right proportions" (samasūpakapaṭiggahaṇa) cautions monks against accepting conditions, material goods, or teachings without careful deliberation. The word "samasūpaka" means "unequal" or "disproportionate," and "paṭiggahaṇa" means "receiving" or "accepting."
Specifically, this may relate to receiving property, gifts, or support from others in a manner not befitting the character of a monk (bhikkhu). A monk should live simply, free from greed, and accept only what is necessary for the pursuit of the holy life. If one accepts too much, or receives what is unnecessary, the spirit of the renunciant life is lost — that spirit of freedom, purity, and non-attachment.
This rule may also apply to the receiving of teachings or acts of practice that have not been properly verified.
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