Lzh Mu Bi Vb Np 21Wearing 5 Robes Every Fortnight
Pāli / Sanskrit:Wearing 5 robes every fortnight
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Explanation of the Sutta: Wearing Five Cloaks Every Fortnight
Background
This text belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka in the Early Buddhist tradition, specifically the section prescribing the clothing of bhikkhus. The Vinaya Piṭaka is the collection dedicated to regulating the life of the Saṅgha, especially those who have gone forth in the Saṅgha of Buddha Śākyamuni.
In the Buddha’s time, bhikkhus were permitted to own only the most necessary things: the Dharma robes, the three principal robes, an almsbowl, and a few other items. The regulation concerning clothing reflects a basic principle of Buddhist practice: the ability to relinquish desires for appearance, social status, and outward adornment. Simple clothing is not only a symbol of going forth, but also a direct instrument of practice that helps reduce the mind of craving (lobha).
Main Content
The rule "Wearing five cloaks every fortnight" (Pancasatikā — the five permitted kinds of robes) is found in the Nissaggiya Pācittiya Vatta section, that is, offenses requiring relinquishment of the object. The specific content of this text has not been fully translated, but according to the general context of the Vinaya Piṭaka, this rule is related to how many kinds of robes a bhikkhu should wear, how they should be worn, and according to what cycle.
Specifically, each fortnight is a period in the Buddhist calendar associated with the ceremonies of reciting the Pātimokkha, the list of rules publicly proclaimed. The rule prescribing the wearing of "five robes" every fortnight means that a bhikkhu should change, wash, and maintain his clothing regularly. This both ensures cleanliness and limits excessive fastidiousness.
This rule also reflects the principle of "not being overly exacting" in Early Buddhist practice. Clothing is considered one of the "four requisites" (cattāro paccaya): robes, food, lodging, and medicine. Robes should not be overly fine, but they must be sufficient to cover the body and protect health.
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