Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Dh Pc 88Lying on the Same Sheet

Exposition of the Ekattharaṇatuvaṭṭana Sutta

Lying on the Same Mat

Background

This sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka in the Pāli Canon, specifically the Pātimokkha Saṃvara, the prohibitions that bhikkhunīs must observe. The sutta was recorded in the context of the early community of monks and nuns under the Buddha, when women monastics did not yet have clearly defined rules of practice.

This event reflects an important stage in the history of practice: the Buddha and the senior disciples established specific rules to protect concentration, moral purity, and the respect accorded to the Sangha. The Ekattharaṇatuvaṭṭana Sutta concerns the issue of women monastics lying together on the same mat or bed, an action that could give rise to suspicion, loss of concentration, or violation of the principle of keeping the precepts.

Main Content

In the spirit of the Theravāda Vinaya, this sutta stipulates that women monastics should not lie together on the same mat or bed. This rule is given not because of an implied accusation, but to protect three important things:

First, the protection of concentration (samādhi): when one lives in purity and respects personal space, the mind is calmer and more easily focused on meditation and Dharma practice. Second, the avoidance of suspicion from the outside community. A community of practice needs to be regarded as pure and decorous, so that the Buddha-Dharma may spread and be trusted. Third, the protection of each individual’s self-mastery. Separate space helps women monastics maintain a pure mind, undisturbed by slander or suspicion.

This prohibition does not imply immoral conduct, but is a preventive measure, a protective barrier for the concentration of practice. It reflects the Buddha’s profound understanding of human psychology and the conditions necessary for successful practice.