Ka Bu Pm Pc 67Hiding Robes

Cīvaraapanidhāna Sutta: On Hiding Robes

Background

The Cīvaraapanidhāna Sutta, “Hiding Robes,” is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha, the ethical code for bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs. This is not a doctrinal sutra, but a training rule (sikkhāpada) for regulating specific conduct in the monastic community.

The robe (cīvara) is not merely the ordinary clothing of one who has gone forth, but also bears deep spiritual meaning. It is a symbol of renunciation of the world and of the vow to uphold discipline. Therefore, the way one treats the robe directly reflects the attitude of practice of a bhikkhu. This sutta concerns a specific violation: hiding the robe for an improper purpose, such as avoiding responsibility or concealing another violation.

Main Content

In the context of the Vinaya Piṭaka, the rule on cīvara apanidhāna belongs to the Pācittiya category, offenses requiring public confession and correction. Specifically, if a bhikkhu deliberately hides, conceals, or separates himself from his robe with the intention of deceiving the Sangha or concealing a violation, this is regarded as an unwholesome act (asādhu).

This rule arises from a basic principle of the Vinaya: transparency and truthfulness in the community of practice. When a bhikkhu hides a robe, he violates honesty and weakens common trust within the Sangha. This rule reminds us that every action, even one that seems small at first glance, has the capacity to affect the harmony and purity of the community.

According to the Theravāda tradition, this violation is recorded not because of the possession or concealment of a material thing in itself, but because of the motive behind it: deceit and lack of responsibility. The rule emphasizes that monastics must live transparently, not allowing darkness to cover their actions.

Practical Meaning

For practitioners today, this sutta offers a lesson in truthfulness in every aspect of life.