Lzh Mg Bi Pm Pc 29Hiding Robes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Cīvaraapanidhāna
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COMMENTARY ON THE CĪVARA-APANIDHĀNA
On the Hiding of Robes
Background
This text appears in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically within the Pātimokkha—the fundamental rules of training for bhikkhus. This is not a text of lofty doctrinal philosophy, but rather a code of monastic discipline, reflecting directly the historical events that arose within the Sangha community during the time of the Buddha.
According to the Theravāda tradition, in the early period of Buddhism, when the monastic community had just been established, violations occurred relating to the use and management of robes (cīvara). These practical matters led the Buddha to promulgate specific regulations. The rule known as "Hiding Robes" (Cīvara-apanidhāna) is one of the rules pertaining to the act of concealing robes by bhikkhus.
Main Content
Within the context of the Vinaya Piṭaka, this prohibition centers on the hiding of robes for inappropriate purposes. The robe (cīvara) is one of the three essential requisites (tisso cīvarā) that a bhikkhu is permitted to possess: the outer robe (uttarāsaṅga), the inner robe (antara-vāsaka), and the under-garment (antaravāsaka). These belongings are not meant to be accumulated or concealed, but to be used in the service of the practice.
The hiding of robes is considered a transgression because it reflects a mind of greed and a lack of honesty. When a bhikkhu conceals robes—whatever the reason may be—this reveals attachment to possessions, one of the great obstacles on the path of practice. The Buddha taught that requisites are allocated to serve genuine needs, not to be hoarded or guarded.
This text, like the other rules of the Vinaya, is founded upon the principle that if an action leads to division within the community, gives rise to distrust, or encourages unwholesome habits, it must be prohibited. The hiding of robes violates all of these principles; it undermines transparency and internal discipline.
Practical Significance
For those who practice according to the Theravāda tradition, this text carries a meaning far deeper than mere compliance with an administrative regulation.
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