Lzh Mi Bi Vb Pc 161Wearing Tight Clothes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Wearing tight clothes
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Explanation of the Sutra on Wearing Tight Clothes
Background
The sutra on wearing tight clothes is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha, the regular declaration of the rules for bhikkhus. This sutra arose from events in the Sangha community while the Buddha was still living, when the Buddha's disciples had not yet fully understood the spirit of practice and the conduct appropriate to the status of a monk.
According to the Theravada tradition, the regulations in the Vinaya Pitaka are not arbitrary prohibitions, but guidelines arising from deep understanding of human nature and the way of training to eliminate defilements (kilesa). The purpose of rules on clothing is to help bhikkhus maintain purity, self-control, and remembrance of the purpose of practice.
Main Content
The rule on wearing tight clothes warns bhikkhus not to wear garments that are too tight and inappropriate for the status of a monastic. This is classified among the lighter offenses (Pācittiya), but still requires confession and correction.
The reason behind this rule is connected with the practice of mindfulness and contemplation of the body (kāyānupassanā). When clothing is tight, it draws excessive attention to bodily form and creates an opportunity for sensual desire (lobha) to arise. In addition, tight clothing may create an inappropriate impression on those around, give rise to unwholesome thoughts, and diminish faith in the Sangha community.
This rule also reflects a general principle in the Vinaya Pitaka: bhikkhus should wear robes, or the traditional three-piece robe (cīvara), in a way that is comfortable, pure, and appropriate to their status. Clothing should provide proper covering without drawing unnecessary attention.
Practical Meaning
In a modern context, although this rule was designed for those who have gone forth, it contains deep lessons for all practitioners. The way we choose clothing is not trivial; it is an expression of self-mastery and awareness of its effect on the mind.
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