Sūkara-maddava in the Perspective of Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism

Abstract

This research article aims to examine the meaning and characteristics of sukaramaddava as depicted in the texts of Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism. A document-based research approach was employed, drawing from the Tipitaka and related academic works. The findings indicate that, from the perspectives of both Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism, sukaramaddava carries four primary meanings: (1) pork, (2) bamboo shoots or mushrooms, (3) cooked rice prepared with pañcakkhosa (five delicacies), and (4) a longevity elixir. Both schools share the view that sukaramaddava possesses medicinal properties as a longevity elixir that Cunda purposefully prepared for the Buddha and his attendant monks, using a special medicinal formula specifically for the Buddha in hopes of alleviating his illness. However, the two traditions have some differing perspectives. The Theravada tradition holds that the elixir was prepared using pork that passed through a chemical process called rasayana, whereas the Mahayana tradition maintains that the elixir contained herbal ingredients that bear a name that is a homonym with the word pork.