Lzh Mg Bi Pm Pc 15Leaving Bedding Outside

The Sutta on Leaving Bedding Outside (Seyyasanthārana)

Background

This text is recorded in the Pāli Vinaya tradition, specifically within the Bhikkhunī Pāṭimokkha (the code of monastic discipline for nuns). It is one of the detailed regulations governing the daily conduct of bhikkhunīs within the Saṅgha community during the time of the Blessed One. The Pāli title "Seyyasanthārana" means "leaving bedding or spread coverings outside" or "leaving sleeping requisites outdoors."

Within the context of the Early Vinaya, regulations such as this one are not without purpose; rather, they reflect careful stewardship of communal property, as well as both individual and collective discipline. They arise from specific situations that the Buddha observed and addressed in order to maintain harmony within the Saṅgha.

Main Content

The Seyyasanthārana lays down that a bhikkhunī should not leave items related to beds, bedding, spreads, or other sleeping requisites outside her dwelling (the bhikkhunī's personal cell) for an extended period without proper care or protection. Such conduct is regarded as an act of carelessness that may lead to damage or loss of property belonging to the monastery or the community.

Specifically, if a bhikkhunī leaves such items outdoors, exposed to rain and wind, or without protection, resulting in damage or loss, this constitutes a breach of discipline. This regulation also continues the tradition established for bhikkhus in the Bhikkhu Pāṭimokkha, with appropriate modifications.

The Early Vinaya clearly specifies the penalties or remedial actions required — in this case, it is a Pācittiya offense, a minor transgression requiring confession before another bhikkhunī. This demonstrates the importance that the early tradition placed upon discipline with regard to communal property.

Practical Significance

The Seyyasanthārana teaches that discipline concerns not only matters of higher morality, but also the small and seemingly minor affairs of daily life.