no pungent vegetables or alcohol allowed inside the temple
A Buddhist proverb warning against bringing worldly desires or impurities into a sacred space. Often used metaphorically to mean that one should not bring distractions or vices into a place of learning or discipline.
At the gate of the Zen temple stands a stone monument inscribed with 'No pungent vegetables or alcohol allowed inside the temple.'
A set phrase from Buddhist monastic rules. 葷 (くん) refers to strong-smelling vegetables like garlic and onions, and 酒 (しゅ) is alcohol, both considered to disturb meditation and discipline.