Overview
A Theravāda bhikkhu lives a life of absolute material simplicity, relying entirely on the generosity of the lay community. The Buddha allowed monastics to accept and use only four basic categories of material goods, and they must constantly reflect on the proper purpose of these items to prevent attachment.
The List
- Cīvara - Robes: Used not for beautification, but purely to ward off cold, heat, insects, and to cover the private parts out of modesty.
- Piṇḍapāta - Almsfood: Eaten not for amusement, intoxication, or physical bulk, but purely for the endurance of the body, to keep it alive, and to support the holy life.
- Senāsana - Lodging / Shelter: Used not for luxury, but purely to ward off the dangers of weather (sun, rain, wind) and to provide a secluded place for meditation.
- Gilānappaccayabhesajjaparikkhāra - Medicines for the sick: Used purely to cure bodily pains and diseases that have arisen, and to maintain health for the purpose of spiritual practice.
Textual References
- Canonical: Sabbāsava Sutta (MN 2) – The Buddha instructs monks to reflect deeply on these four requisites as a method for abandoning the taints (āsavas) connected to use.