Lzh Mu Bi Vb Sk 60Nāvarṇakārakaṁ paribhokṣyāma

Exposition of the Nāvarṇakārakaṁ Paribhokṣyāma Sutra

Background

The Nāvarṇakārakaṁ paribhokṣyāma Sutra belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka in the Theravāda tradition of the Buddha-Dharma, the part of the teaching that governs the communal life of the Sangha. The title of this sutra means, in a practical sense, "We shall use things with nine kinds of characteristics," or is related to the making and use of monastic implements in accordance with the Vinaya.

In the historical context, Śākyamuni Buddha (Gotama Buddha) established various rules for the Sangha in order to maintain discipline, harmony, and diligence in practice. The Vinaya Piṭaka records stories about how bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs must observe prohibitions, use common property, make implements, and live harmoniously with one another. This sutra specifically revolves around practical matters concerning monastic objects, especially how things are made, used, and managed according to Buddhist principles.

Main Content

The specific content of this sutra has not yet been fully translated in common materials, but based on the Vinaya context, the sutra speaks about issues related to the use of monastic articles that have certain characteristics (nāvarṇa, nine kinds of characteristics).

According to the Pāli tradition, objects used in the life of practice, such as robes, lodging, and daily implements, must follow certain rules. They must not be too luxurious, must not lead to exploitation or attachment. When an object is made or used, bhikkhus need to consider whether it is suitable to the Four Requisites (the four parikkhāra), the essentials for the life of one gone forth, including robes, food, lodging, and medicine for illness.

The sutra forbids actions of exploitation, trade, or accumulation of property. Bhikkhus need to maintain the spirit of renunciation (nekkhamma) and not allow worldly ambition to enter the life of practice.