Lzh Mi Bu Vb Sk 10Na vikīrṇaṁ prāvariṣyāma

Explanation of the Na vikīrṇaṁ prāvariṣyāma Discourse

Background

The Na vikīrṇaṁ prāvariṣyāma Discourse, in Pali or Sanskrit, is a rule of training belonging to the Vinaya Piṭaka in the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. The Vinaya Piṭaka is the canonical collection on discipline and ethical principles that bhikkhus and bhikkhunis must observe.

The title of this discourse, translated as “One must not let clothing become scattered,” is directly related to the management and protection of monastic requisites, especially the Buddhist robe (cīvara). This is not a trivial rule, but an expression of the spirit of non-greed (appicchatā) and carefulness in using the shared property of the Sangha community.

In the historical context, these regulations were set forth by the Blessed Buddha after witnessing specific cases of disciples failing to manage requisites properly, leading to waste or destruction of Sangha property. These rules on preserving requisites reflect the ethical foundation of Theravāda Buddhism: self-awareness, responsibility, and the use of what is sufficient.

Main Content

This discourse revolves around the principle that bhikkhus must not leave bright, fine robes or monastic clothing in open places, outdoors, without protection. The phrase “na vikīrṇaṁ prāvariṣyāma” (not to let them be scattered) indicates that letting robes be exposed to sun, rain, and wind through carelessness is not permitted.

This regulation is intended not only to protect the material quality of the robes, but also carries a deeper meaning concerning the character of each member of the Sangha community. When a bhikkhu does not carefully preserve shared property, that reflects a lack of heedfulness (appamāda) in practice. Conversely, caring well for requisites is the sign of a monastic with a high degree of respect and responsibility.