Grammatical Analysis
Bhesajja: [nt.] Medicine; remedy. Derived from Sanskrit bhaiṣajya.
Orthodox Definition
Bhesajja refers specifically to the medicinal substances allowed for monks. While piṇḍapāta covers standard food consumed before noon, Bhesajja covers substances that can be consumed as medicine, often allowed outside the standard eating hours.
The Vinaya specifically identifies the Five Standard Medicines (pañca bhesajjāni):
- Sappi (Ghee)
- Navanīta (Fresh butter)
- Tela (Oil - sesame, mustard, etc.)
- Madhu (Honey)
- Phāṇita (Molasses / Sugar cane juice)
These five are considered highly nutritious but are classified as medicine rather than food. A monk is allowed to store these five medicines for a maximum of seven days. Other medicines allowed include various roots, astringent decoctions, leaves, fruits, and salts used to treat specific ailments, provided they do not serve as substantial food.
Textual References
- Vinaya: Mahāvagga (Bhesajjakkhandhaka) – The comprehensive chapter dealing with allowed medicines, medical procedures (like lancing boils or using steam baths), and the rules for storing them.
- Commentary: Samantapāsādikā – Detailed botanical and medical clarifications on how to prepare these remedies legally.