Lzh Dg Bi Vb Sk 18Well-Covered
Pāli / Sanskrit:Suppaṭicchanna
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Suppaṭicchanna Sutta (Well Covered)
Background
The Suppaṭicchanna Sutta (Pāli: Suppa-ṭicchanna, provisionally translated “well covered” or “properly concealed”) is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically among the rules concerning offenses related to the clothing of Bhikkhus and Bhikkhunīs. This work belongs to the Pātimokkha and the detailed minor disciplinary sections, where the Buddha laid down precepts to maintain order in the Sangha.
The background for this sutta concerns monks who did not observe the proper way of dressing in public places. The Buddha saw that some monks wore clothing that did not cover them modestly, leading to undignified appearances and affecting the reputation of the Teaching. Therefore, he laid down a rule concerning proper dress to reflect the modest way of life of those gone forth.
Main Content
The Suppaṭicchanna Sutta prescribes that Bhikkhus, when going into public areas such as villages, markets, or places with many people, must wear their robes and clothing so that they are properly covered, especially the body from the shoulders to the knees. The key point of this rule is the concept of “well covered” (suppaṭicchanna), meaning adequately and appropriately covered.
The rule is not merely a matter of aesthetics, but reflects respect for oneself, for the community, and for the Teaching. When a monk or bhikkhunī wears robes immodestly, this may cause laypeople to become doubtful or even misunderstand the purpose of the renunciant life.
This rule also identifies specific situations in which clothing must be worn properly: when visiting relatives’ homes, when practicing the Dharma in monasteries, or when meeting people of high social position. If one violates it, the monk must acknowledge a Dukkaṭa offense (a minor fault requiring correction), or, depending on the degree, may be subject to other penalties within Sangha discipline.
Practical Meaning
The deeper meaning of the Suppaṭicchanna Sutta goes beyond the outward matter of wearing robes.
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