Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Dh Pc 132Monastery Robes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Āvasathacīvara
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THE DISCOURSE ON MONASTERY ROBES (Āvasathacīvara)
Background
This discourse is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Early Buddhist tradition, specifically in the Pātimokkha rules, the disciplinary precepts for bhikkhu monks. The Vinaya Piṭaka is the body of scripture concerning monastic discipline, established by the Buddha Gotama to maintain harmony and purity in the Sangha (Saṃgha).
The regulations concerning robes (cīvara) arose from practical needs in the life of practice. Monastic robes are not merely external objects, but symbolize the spirit of going forth, humility, and spiritual training. The Discourse on Monastery Robes specifically addresses the issue of robes belonging to the monastery (āvasatha), the common structures of the monastery, or robes used in common by the community.
The background for this regulation was the need of teachers residing in monasteries for clear guidance on how to use, manage, and share communal property, especially essential items such as robes. This reflects the spirit of Early Buddhism: carelessness, greed, or disputes over material things are major obstacles to practice.
Main Content
The Discourse on Monastery Robes gives detailed regulations concerning robes regarded as property of the monastery (saṃghika), not belonging to any individual monastic. The prohibitions stated in this discourse are intended to prevent mistakes in the use or handling of communal property of the community of practice.
According to the Vinaya tradition, bhikkhus classify property as personal property (puggalika) and communal property (saṃghika). Monastery robes are considered communal property, and therefore their use must follow principles of fairness and purity. A monastic may not arbitrarily appropriate, conceal, or transfer monastery robes without permission from the community.
This discourse also refers to specific situations: when a bhikkhu is permitted to use monastery robes, how they should be cared for, and what actions will lead to disciplinary penalties.
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