The Development of Pāna from the Buddhist Era to the Present Day

Abstract

This article explores the development of "Pana" (a type of permissible drink for Buddhist monks) in Buddhism from the time of the Buddha to the present day. The objectives are to study the principles and concepts of Pana in Buddhist scriptures and to examine its development over time. The study reveals that during the Buddha's era, Pana, made from fruits, leaves, or flowers, was permitted for the monastic community as a drink to quench thirst and alleviate hunger during the off-mealtime. This was governed by various principles and restrictions related to the monastic discipline (Vinaya), such as the types of ingredients, preparation methods, and consumption. Over time, Pana has undergone changes and developments in response to societal contexts, technology, and the diversity of contemporary beverages. Some modern drinks can be considered permissible Pana, while others are more challenging to categorize. Understanding the original principles of Pana is crucial for evaluating present-day beverages. This article suggests further study of Pana from historical and scientific perspectives to enhance societal awareness of its true benefits.