Lzh Mi Bu Pm Pc 88Itch Bandage
Pāli / Sanskrit:Kaṇḍuppaṭicchādi
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EXPLANATION OF THE KAṆḌUPPAṬICCHĀDI SUTTA
(Rule on Cloth for Covering an Itch)
Background
Kaṇḍuppaṭicchādi is one of the practices recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically within the Pāṭimokkha, the voluntary code for monks and nuns. This sutta concerns the rule on the use of a wrapping cloth or bandage to cover an itchy area of skin, one of the basic material needs of those gone forth.
The historical background of this sutta arose during the Buddha’s lifetime. Renunciant disciples needed strict rules on the use of articles in order to avoid comparison, greed, or violation of the spirit of generosity. The Kaṇḍuppaṭicchādi Sutta aims to balance allowing monks and nuns to care for bodily health, as a part of self-care, with maintaining simplicity and not being overly concerned about appearance.
Main Content
Kaṇḍuppaṭicchādi states that when a monk or nun has an itchy or irritated area of skin, they may use a piece of cloth to wrap or cover it. However, this use must not be overly bright, decorative, or conspicuous. The cloth permitted should be simple and serve only a medical purpose, not beautification or the display of personal status.
This sutta also clearly states that one must not abuse this permission to possess too much cloth or to use costly fabrics. Soiled or simple bandages and cloths are encouraged rather than pieces of cloth with striking colors. The purpose is healing, not adornment.
This rule also includes guidance on how to care for the cloth after use, ensuring that it is kept clean and does not become property that gives rise to greed. If the cloth is no longer needed, it should be returned to the monastic community, the Saṅgha, or reused for other purposes.
Practical Meaning
The Kaṇḍuppaṭicchādi Sutta is not only a material rule, but also reflects a profound principle in Theravāda Buddhism.
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