Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Pc 89Lying on the Same Sheet
Pāli / Sanskrit:Ekattharaṇatuvaṭṭana
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An Explanation of the Ekattharaṇatuvaṭṭana Sutta (Lying on One Mat)
Background
The Ekattharaṇatuvaṭṭana Sutta appears in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, specifically in the Pāṭimokkha Saṃvara, the basic rules of monastic training for bhikkhus. This rule is recorded as a Pācittiya-level offense, a fault requiring acknowledgment and confession before the assembly.
The background of the rule is connected with the story of novice bhikkhus who acted in ways not in keeping with the spirit of study and practice. The Buddha, clearly understanding the difficulties involved in maintaining concentration and purity, laid down rules to protect the minds of practitioners and maintain the honor of the Sangha.
Main Content
The rule “Lying on one mat” explicitly forbids bhikkhus from lying on the same mat (raṇa, ekattharaṇa) with one another under certain conditions, specifically when there is no witness or suitable arrangement. Although outwardly the act may appear harmless, according to the Vinaya philosophy of early Buddhism it easily leads to suspicion or loss of confidence from outside.
This rule is not intended to forbid sincere relationships among bhikkhus, but to protect purity in both action and perception. It reflects the principle of “paññatta-sīla,” prescribed rules with a deep educational purpose, not only to limit behavior but also to train the mind in self-respect, discipline, and social skillfulness.
Violation of this rule requires the bhikkhu to confess before the assembly and undertake repentance (pabbajjaniya-kamma). This act of confession is not a punishment, but an opportunity to restore ethical character and trust.
Practical Meaning
The Ekattharaṇatuvaṭṭana Sutta is not merely a formal rule, but an expression of carefulness in consciousness (sampajañña).
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