Lzh Mu Bu Vb Pc 68Transferring to Another
Pāli / Sanskrit:Vikappana
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VIKAPPANA SUTTA: TRANSFERRING WHAT IS UNSUITABLE
Background
The Vikappana Sutta (Pāli: Vikappana) is an important part of the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, belonging to the collection of rules concerning prohibited matters (Pācittiya). In the context of early Buddhism, as the Sangha community developed, bhikkhus needed to observe regulations concerning possessions, especially objects unsuitable for a celibate and pure way of life.
Gotama Buddha instructed his disciples on how to deal with possessions inappropriate for the monastic community. This sutta concerns the principle of “transferring” (vikappana), a method that helps bhikkhus resolve the matter of possessions they should not retain while still observing pure ethical conduct. This is not merely a formal rule, but also an expression of the ideal of letting go and not clinging to worldly possessions.
Main Content
The principle of transfer (vikappana) in the Vinaya Piṭaka is intended to deal with material things that bhikkhus should not keep. According to the rule, a bhikkhu is not permitted to retain objects unsuitable for the renunciant life, such as money, ornaments, overly refined clothing, or ordinary implements of lay people.
When a bhikkhu receives such objects, whether by chance or for some other purpose, the Vinaya prescribes that he must “transfer” them to suitable persons or other communities. This may be done by giving them to another monk, to a Buddhist family, or to other worthy persons.
The process of transfer is not merely a physical act, but must also be carried out with a pure intention, without any purpose of possession or exploitation. The bhikkhu must clearly disclose the object, not conceal it, and verify the transfer before witnesses. This ensures transparency and conformity with the legal discipline of the Sangha.
The ideal behind this rule is to help bhikkhus abide in purity and not be tempted by material benefits.
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