Lzh Mg Bu Pm Pc 64Hiding Robes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Cīvaraapanidhāna
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The Scripture on Hiding Robes (Cīvaraapanidhāna)
Background
The Scripture on Hiding Robes belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically within the Pātimokkha — the foundational code of discipline governing the conduct of bhikkhus and bhikkhunis. The Pātimokkha forms the basis of practice in the Theravāda tradition and is recited every fortnight (each half of the lunar month) within the monastic community, as a reaffirmation of the commitment to uphold virtue and discipline.
The Scripture on Hiding Robes pertains in particular to the Pācittiya rules — those offenses requiring confession. The matter of "hiding robes" — concealing or secreting away one's monastic robe — relates directly to honesty and transparency within the monastic community. In this context, the monastic robe is not merely a garment, but a symbol of renunciation and of the commitment to a life of simplicity and adherence to the Vinaya.
Main Content
This scripture prescribes that if a bhikkhu intentionally hides, conceals, or secrets away his robe — for whatever psychological reason, whether out of fear of losing it, fear of theft, or any other motive — such an action constitutes a violation of the rules. Specifically, it is a Pācittiya offense, requiring the offender to confess before the Saṅgha or before other bhikkhus.
The deeper reason underlying this rule is not the robe itself, but what the act reflects about the practitioner's state of mind. The hiding of one's robe subtly indicates a lack of trust, selfishness, or concealment — mental qualities contrary to the spirit of Buddhist practice. Within the Saṅgha, all things should be transparent, and all actions should be carried out with mindfulness and in the witness of the community. To hide one's monastic robe is an act of obscuration, contradicting the Buddha-Dharma — wherein "no darkness, no concealment" (na tiṇṇa, na aṇ-ṭhakāra) stands as a principle of clarity and openness.
Practical Significance
This scripture teaches bhikkhus that virtuous discipline lies not only in outward action, but also in the mind. The concealment of one's robe is a manifestation of greed, fear, or a lack of trust in the Saṅgha.
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