Lzh Mi Bu Pm Sk 13Lifted Robe

SUTTA ON A LIFTED ROBE (UKKHITTAKA)

Background

The Sutta on a Lifted Robe (Pāli: Ukkhittaka) belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically among the rules concerning the development of the Buddhist Sangha. The robe is a sacred symbol of bhikkhus, expressing the vow to abandon the entanglements of the world. This sutta was recorded to guide the community of monks and nuns in how to deal with faults related to garments or the casting aside of robes, one of the four basic requisites.

During the Buddha’s time at the monastery of Sāvatthī, bhikkhus sometimes forgot or intentionally cast aside their garments outside the dwelling area (vihāra). This action might arise from desire, defilement, or negligence, and needed instruction. Out of compassion for the Sangha, the Buddha established clear rules to help his disciples practice mindfulness.

Main Content

This sutta concerns the fact that a bhikkhu may not casually cast away (ukkhittaka) or forget his garment in unsuitable places. The robe is inseparable from monastic dress, for it provides bodily covering and maintains mindfulness (sati) regarding what is dignified, pure, and dry.

When a bhikkhu throws away his garment and does not retrieve it, or leaves it in damp, dirty places leading to damage, this is regarded as negligence in managing the communal or personal property of the Sangha. The Buddha taught that each bhikkhu must maintain his garment carefully and not allow it to be damaged, because this expresses respect for the noble Dharma.

The rule clearly states that bhikkhus must keep the garment in safe, dry places and inspect it regularly. If negligence leads to loss or damage, the bhikkhu should resolve to improve, or in serious cases, the Sangha should speak up to instruct him.