Lzh Mi Bi Pm Pc 150Lying on the Same Sheet

Explanation of the Ekattharaṇatuvaṭṭana Discourse

Lying on the Same Mat

Background

This discourse is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha, the basic code that bhikkhus must undertake and observe. It is one of the rules of communal life arising from specific situations in the history of the founding of the Sangha, established by the Buddha Śākyamuni.

The Ekattharaṇatuvaṭṭana Discourse (Eka-attharaṇa-tuvaṭṭana) concerns the issue of bhikkhus sharing the same mat or covering cloth when sleeping or resting. This rule relates to the restraint of unwholesome mental states (akusala citta), especially sensual desire (lobha) and inappropriate feelings between bhikkhus. The Vinaya Piṭaka is not merely a set of prohibitions, but a set of educative measures intended to preserve purity, harmony, and mental focus in the monastic community.

Main Content

The core issue raised by the discourse is this: when two bhikkhus or more people lie on the same mat, this may lead to actions inappropriate to monastic discipline. Although not explicit, the main reason may be connected with the arousal of desires arising from bodily contact or excessive closeness.

The rule states that bhikkhus should not lie on the same mat (ekattharaṇa). The word "attharaṇa" means a mat, spread cloth, or bedding; "eka" means one. Thus the purpose of this rule is to separate individuals and create clear boundaries of personal space, thereby protecting the purity of each person.

If this rule is violated, the bhikkhu must confess the offense (āpatti) before the Sangha or before senior monastics, depending on the degree of the violation. The Vinaya Piṭaka regards self-aware confession and repentance as the main means of purifying the mind.

Practical Meaning

The Ekattharaṇatuvaṭṭana Discourse is not only a material rule, but also expresses a profound principle: respect for personal boundaries is the foundation of healthy communal life.