Lzh Mg Bi Pm Np 2Staying Apart From Robes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Udosita
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Commentary on the Udosita Sutta
Staying Apart From One's Robes
Background
The Udosita Sutta is part of the Vinaya Pitaka in the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, specifically belonging to the Bhikkhu Pātimokkha (the code of discipline for monks). These are detailed regulations concerning daily life within the monastic community, reflecting the Buddha's careful governance of the contemplative life.
In the early days, the Buddhist Sangha grew rapidly, with thousands of monks coming from many different social backgrounds. Problems arose from misunderstandings, lack of respect, and poor stewardship of communal requisites. The Udosita Sutta emerged from the need for specific guidelines to maintain discipline, fairness, and mutual respect within the monastic community.
This sutta relates directly to one of the three essential robes of a monk: the outer robe (uttarāsaṅga), the inner robe (antara-vāsaka), and the cloak (sabaya). Each robe has its own distinct function and is subject to specific regulations concerning its use, care, and proper regard.
Main Content
The Udosita addresses the matter of leaving one's robes apart — particularly when a monk departs from his dwelling or in certain specific circumstances. The principal rule is this: a monk should not leave his robes behind (that is, leave them in one place while he himself goes elsewhere) when departing from the communal residential area of the monastery or when engaging in contemplative activities.
The reasoning behind this regulation is to avoid situations that might give rise to suspicion, loss, or disrespect toward the property of the Sangha. Robes are not merely clothing; they are also a symbol of the going-forth (出家 — the renunciation of household life) and the recognised standing of a monk. To leave them behind is to open the door to difficulties: others may be misled, requisites may be lost or interfered with, and such situations violate the spirit of Buddhist discipline.
This sutta furthermore embodies the spirit of individual responsible stewardship.
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