Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Dh Sk 40Lifted Robe

The Scripture on the Lifted Upper Robe (Ukkhittaka)

Background

The Ukkhittaka scripture belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, especially the regulations concerning the robes (cīvara) of monks and nuns. In the time of the Buddha, wearing the upper robe (uttarāsaṅga) was an important part of the discipline and dignity of those gone forth. This scripture records a specific situation in which monks and nuns did not maintain dignity in the manner of wearing the upper robe and were instructed by the Buddha.

The upper robe mentioned here is not ordinary clothing, but the “uttarāsaṅga,” a woven cloth used as an outer garment to cover the shoulder, regarded as a symbol of dignity and discipline in the Sangha. Wearing it improperly or “lifting it up” in an unsuitable way is considered disrespectful toward the rules and toward the nature of the renunciant life.

Main Content

According to the regulations in the Vinaya Piṭaka, monks and nuns should wear the upper robe with dignity, properly covering the body. In this scripture, the Buddha witnesses monks and nuns “lifting up” or holding the upper robe loosely, not properly covering the body. This action is not merely a matter of hygiene or personal comfort, but also reflects a lack of care in practice.

The Buddha established a rule of training (sikkhāpada) that monks and nuns must wear the upper robe properly, with the upper garment covering the shoulders and chest in a fitting manner. If the upper robe is “lifted up” or left loose in an undignified way, this is considered a violation of the Pātimokkha. The violation is not a grave fault, but it shows disrespect toward the rules the Buddha established to protect the purity and discipline of the Sangha.

Practical Meaning

The Ukkhittaka scripture teaches us that outward dignity is an expression of inward purity of mind. The way we wear clothing, the way we preserve our robes, and the way we keep ourselves orderly are not merely matters of form.