Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Pc 146Spinning Yarn
Pāli / Sanskrit:Suttakantana
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The Suttakantana Sutra: The Rule on Spinning Thread
Background
The Suttakantana Sutra (Sutta-kantana, translated as “spinning thread”) is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, in the section of regulations for the community of monks and nuns. This text appears in the context of the Buddha Śākyamuni living at Śrāvastī, where the Buddha often taught rules concerning the daily tasks of monastics.
According to the Theravāda Vinaya Piṭaka, this text is recounted when some monks and nuns did not follow the proper instructions in work involving spinning thread and sewing robes. This matter caused dispute within the monastic community, leading the Buddha to set forth clear regulations on how to carry out this work properly, in accordance with the spirit of practice.
It is noteworthy that the Vinaya Piṭaka not only sets out prohibitions, but also gives positive and mindful guidance on how to live. The Suttakantana text reflects the Buddha’s carefulness in protecting the integrity of the Sangha of monks and nuns.
Main Content
In Suttakantana, the Buddha gives guidance on specific rules when spinning thread to sew robes. This work is not an ordinary activity but an indispensable part of the monastic life of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs. The robe (uttarāsaṅga) represents the dignity of the Vinaya.
The text clearly states what should be avoided: one should not spin thread in unsuitable circumstances, should not misuse time for practice by becoming excessively absorbed in this work, and should not create conflict or discrimination in the community because of differences in methods of practice. In particular, the Buddha emphasizes that this practical activity must always be performed with mindfulness (sati) and collectedness (samādhi).
This rule also relates to the principle of communal property. Threads and materials used for weaving are common property of the Sangha; therefore they must be used fairly and responsibly. No one may appropriate them privately or misuse them.
Practical Meaning
At first glance, Suttakantana may seem to be a set of detailed rules about manual work.
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