Lzh Mu Bi Vb Np 10Excessive Prompting for Robe Funds
Pāli / Sanskrit:Rāja
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Rāja Sutta: On Excessive Entreaty for Robe Funds
Background
This text is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga, a part of the Pātimokkha. The disciplinary texts in this collection were laid down by the Blessed Buddha when monks and nuns had not yet fully understood the principles of communal life. In particular, the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga was established to regulate the conduct of nuns, ensuring diligence, purity, and harmony among monks and nuns.
The title "Rāja" means king or rule; in this context it refers to actions connected with entreating for material goods. This text arose from specific situations in which bhikkhunīs acted inappropriately by making excessive requests for money to buy robe-cloth.
Main Content
The text prescribes that bhikkhunīs may not entreat or urge devotees to provide excessive money for clothing or for preparing cloth. Specifically, repeating requests, using subtle means to psychologically influence the donor, or complaining when the amount of cloth received is not as desired are all regarded as violations.
The Blessed Buddha taught that the practice of "alms-going" (pindapāta - the dignified act of asking) is pure when performed with the right mind and without discrimination. However, when bhikkhunīs begin to have fixed desires or demands regarding the quality or quantity of cloth provided, that action becomes greed (lobha) and a lack of respect for the compassionate mind of those who give.
The text also emphasizes that bhikkhunīs should know how to be content with what is received. As the Buddha taught in the Middle Length Discourses (Majjhima Nikāya), a monastic should practice "Santuṭṭhi" (contentment), one of the essential qualities of a humble person.
Practical Meaning
The occasion for this text is not only related to nuns of early Buddhism but also has universal value for all monastics.
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