INTEGRATING THE KĀLIKA PRINCIPLES APPEARING IN THE VINAYA SCRIPTURES TO PROMOTE THE HEALTH OF BUDDHIST MONKS

Abstract

This thesis aims to (1) study the canonical principles in the Vinaya scriptures, (2) investigate the fundamental practices concerning monastic discipline according to the Vinaya scriptures, and (3) integrate canonical principles found in the Vinaya scriptures to promote the well-being of monks. This research adopts a qualitative approach, focusing on studying information from the Vinaya Pitaka and commentaries on the Vinaya Pitaka as its foundation. From the results of the study, it was found that Kālika refers to the determination of the time during which the monks can consume nutrient, which the Vinaya prescribes for the monks to receive nutrient. If a monk consumes food beyond the prescribed time for each type of Kālika food, they are considered to have violated the Vinaya Pitaka and are subject to disciplinary action. The severity of the disciplinary action depends on the nature of the offense and the monk's history of violations. Types of Kālika: There are four main types of Kālika, each with a designated timeframe for consumption: Yāvakālika: This refers to food that can be consumed from dawn to noon on the same day it is offered. Examples include rice, fish, meat, milk, fruits, and grains.Yāmakālika: This type of food can be consumed throughout the day and night after it is offered. Examples include specific types of fruit drinks and water-based beverages. Sattāhaka: This refers to food that can be kept and consumed within seven days of being offered. Examples include medicinal items like ghee, honey, and sugarcane juice. Yāvajīvika: This is the only category with no time limit. It refers to medicinal substances used for treating illnesses, including herbal remedies, animal oils, minerals, and even modern medicines. The main principles of nutrition, they must adhere to the types of each type of kalika and must be strictly practiced in accordance with the Buddhist precepts, adhering to the principles of purity of livelihood, right livelihood, Bhogena-mattanyutā, Dhatu-paccavekkhāṇa, and the four great principles. Monks can apply their knowledge and understanding of these Kālika principles to promote the health of monks, especially in eating food to cure, alleviate, and prevent disease.