Lzh Mu Bi Pm Pc 145Durbalāya kaṭhina

Commentary on Durbalāya Kaṭhina

From the Vinaya Piṭaka — Theravāda Tradition

Background

Durbalāya kaṭhina is a rule in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, concerning the provision of robes (kaṭhina) to bhikkhus in special circumstances. The term “durbalā” means those who are weak, sick, or in difficulty, while “kaṭhina” refers to the formal offering of robes according to the rites of the Sangha, the community of bhikkhus.

This scripture is recorded in sections related to monastic law, especially exceptional cases concerning the distribution and use of robes. The Pātimokkha section, the basic code of discipline, clearly sets forth prohibitions and permissions concerning property, robes, and their distribution to bhikkhus. This regulation arose from the need to protect weak bhikkhus, especially those who were ill or facing difficult conditions, so as to ensure that they had sufficient warm robes to maintain their health and continue practicing.

Main Content

Durbalāya kaṭhina states that in cases where there are bhikkhus who are weak, ill, or in difficult circumstances, the Sangha has the authority to provide robes in the form of kaṭhina, a formal robe offering, without having to follow all normal restrictions. This allows flexibility in the Vinaya, the discipline, in order to serve the real needs of the monastic community.

Specifically, this regulation is understood as a compassionate exception. When a weak bhikkhu needs warm clothing or better protection in order to preserve his health, the Sangha may act beyond ordinary restrictions without violating the spirit of the discipline. This is a typical example of how the Buddha-Dharma balances adherence to rules with practical compassion (karuṇā).