Lzh Mi Bi Vb Pc 87Giving Robes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Cīvaradāna
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THE SCRIPTURE ON OFFERING ROBES (Cīvaradāna)
Background
Cīvaradāna is a disciplinary rule belonging to the Pātimokkha, the comprehensive code of the Sangha in the Vinaya Piṭaka of Theravāda Buddhism. This scripture is found in the Pācittiya section, the class of faults requiring confession and correction for monastics who have unintentionally committed an offense.
According to the Pāli tradition, the Buddha set forth regulations on how to receive and use robes in order to teach disciples non-greed, moderation in material support, and respect for the good intentions of donors. Robes (cīvara) are not only essential requisites for life, but also symbols of the kindness and faith of the community that gives with devotion. Therefore, the manner of receiving them must follow clear ethical principles and must not be arbitrary or driven by personal benefit.
Main Content
The Cīvaradāna rule stipulates the situations in which monastics may accept robes from donors and the cases they should avoid so as not to make light of the donors’ compassion. This scripture especially emphasizes that when donors voluntarily offer robes with a pure mind, monastics should receive them formally and appropriately, without refusing rudely or injuring their intention.
However, the scripture also warns monastics that they should not create improper suggestive conditions in order to receive robes, or intentionally hint that others should make offerings to them. Such conduct is regarded as abusing the generosity of the community and thereby creates a Pācittiya offense, a fault that the monastic must confess before the Sangha.
The essential point is balance in two directions: respecting the hearts of those who give without letting them be exploited, and maintaining an independent mind that does not depend on material benefits. That is how the Buddha taught monastics to live with purity and humility.
Practical Meaning
The Cīvaradāna scripture teaches us that giving and receiving offerings are both acts carrying ethical responsibility.
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