佛制比丘六物圖 1.81

1.81

First, explaining the intention behind its prescription. The Mahāsāṃghika-vinaya states: "The bowl is a vessel for renunciants, not an implement for householders." The Sarvāstivāda-vinaya states: "The bowl is the insignia of the Buddhas as numerous as the sands of the Ganges; it must not be put to improper use." The Samantapāsādikā states: "The noble ones of the three vehicles all hold earthenware bowls and beg for food to support their lives, taking the four seas as their home; therefore, they are called bhikṣus." An ancient master said: "A bowl has no stand; it is not a vessel for royal courts."