Lzh Mi Bi Vb Sk 10Na vikīrṇaṁ prāvariṣyāma

EXPOSITION: NA VIKĪRṆAṀ PRĀVARIṢYĀMA

The Injunction Not to Leave Robes Scattered

Background

The Na vikīrṇaṁ prāvariṣyāma discourse belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, the Pāli Canon, and is a rule in the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga, the detailed explanation of discipline for nuns. This discourse was issued when the Buddha Śākyamuni became aware of an incident concerning how bhikkhunīs handled their robes.

In the Theravāda monastic context, the robe is not merely clothing, but a symbol of discipline, self-restraint, and mindfulness. The way a robe is handled contains the intention of practice. When a nun leaves robes scattered, dirty, or piled up improperly, this reflects carelessness of mind and a lack of mindfulness (sati). Therefore, the Buddha set forth a specific injunction to train discipline in even the smallest details.

Main Content

The discourse stipulates that nuns must not leave robes scattered on the ground, especially in dirty or cramped places. The statement “Na vikīrṇaṁ prāvariṣyāma” means “robes are not to be left scattered,” that is, spread about disorderly. This is an action prohibited in specific cases.

A nun must perform several steps before wearing or putting away a robe: (1) wash the hands; (2) find a clean, dry, airy place; (3) fold the robe carefully, fold by fold; (4) place the robe on a raised place, or hold it in the hand or drape it respectfully over the shoulder. Each of these actions is an opportunity to cultivate mindfulness: the Buddha taught that even small matters require full attention.

This regulation is not only a matter of hygiene, but also concerns respect for oneself and for the object of practice. When a nun handles the robe in an orderly way, she nourishes the spirit of discipline and distinction from the lifestyle of laypeople, who often leave belongings disorderly and without order.

Practical Meaning

This regulation is a teaching on aṇu sikkhā, training in small details.