Lzh Mi Bu Vb Pc 88Itch Bandage

The Kaṇḍuppaṭicchādi Discourse — An Explanation of the Rule on Itch Bandages

Background

The Kaṇḍuppaṭicchādi discourse belongs to the Pātimokkha Sutta of the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pācittiya section, the ethical rules concerning minor violations that require confession. This text was spoken by the Buddha in the context of regulating the communal life of the Sangha, in order to maintain discipline and cleanliness within the monastic community.

The original Pali title “Kaṇḍuppaṭicchādi” is translated literally as “covering the itch” (kaṇḍu = itch; paṭicchādi = covering, wrapping). This discourse reflects the practical situation of bhikkhus and bhikkhunis living under simple conditions in monasteries of early Buddhism, where skin diseases and itching were common troubles.

Main Content

This rule states that monastics are permitted to use a piece of cloth or a bandage to cover an itchy area of skin while carrying out communal activities such as walking meditation, reciting scriptures, or attending communal ceremonies. However, this use must be carried out appropriately and must not be abused.

Specifically, the Dharma allows monastics suffering from skin disease or itching to use a bandage to cover affected areas, but the necessary conditions are:

First, the use must have a legitimate medical purpose, not be for concealment or for making oneself appear unusual.

Second, it must not be abused or used beyond what is necessary, thereby forming an unnecessary habit.

Third, it must comply with the framework of the Sangha’s common rules of living and must not distract the mind in practice.

If a monastic exceeds this limit, for example by using a bandage deliberately, abusively, or in violation of the spirit of the rule, then they incur a pācittiya fault, requiring confession directly before the Sangha or before another bhikkhu.