Lzh Mg Bi Pm Np 19Heavy Cloaks
Pāli / Sanskrit:Garupāvuraṇa
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The Sutta on Heavy Cloaks (Garupāvuraṇa)
Background
The Sutta on Heavy Cloaks is found within the Pātimokkha — the fundamental code of discipline for bhikkhus in the Vinaya of the Theravāda tradition. It is one of the detailed regulations concerning the garments of monastics, reflecting the Buddha's careful attention to practice as expressed through even the smallest of actions.
In its historical context, bhikkhus during the time of the Buddha were permitted to use various types of cloth for making robes (cīvara). However, the Buddha set forth specific guidelines to prevent comparison, envy, or tendencies toward luxury within the monastic community. This sutta concerns heavy and precious fabrics that the Buddha discouraged bhikkhus from using, with the aim of maintaining a spirit of humility and genuine practice.
Main Content
The Garupāvuraṇa establishes that bhikkhus should not use garments made from heavy, coarse, or precious cloth as an outer robe (uttarāsaṅga). The types of cloth that are prohibited include those of high quality, with a lustrous appearance, or fabrics imported from other regions at great expense.
The reason the Buddha set forth this rule was to uphold the fundamental principles of monastic dress. The robes of bhikkhus must be simple, easily replaceable, and neither attract undue attention nor create distinctions within the community. If monastics were to accumulate expensive fabrics or wear elaborate garments, there would easily arise feelings of veneration toward such things, a longing for possession, and a loss of the spirit of renunciation that belongs to the monastic path.
This sutta also reflects the principle that the purpose of clothing is solely to cover the body and protect it from the elements, and not to adorn oneself or display one's status. A bhikkhu who is truly practicing will not concern himself with the quality of cloth, but will focus instead on maintaining purity of mind.
Practical Significance
The Sutta on Heavy Cloaks is not merely a rule concerning material things, but is also a profound teaching on detachment from sensual desire.
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