Lzh Sarv Bi Vb Np 1The Robe-Making Season
Pāli / Sanskrit:Kathina
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Kathina Sutra: The Robe-Seeking Season
Background
Kathina (Pāli: कथिन) is one of the most important ceremonies in the Theravāda practice tradition. This sutra belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically the Pañcasikkhāpadakanda section, and records the regulations concerning the robe-seeking season, a special period in the monastic year of the Sangha.
The basis of Kathina originated in the early days of the Order. During the rainy-season retreat (vassa), bhikkhus needed to remain in one place to practice the Dharma and not travel from place to place. After the vassa ended, the community would need new robes for the coming cold season. To support practitioners while also educating lay devotees in compassion and active service to the Sangha, the Buddha established this robe-making season.
Kathina is not only an administrative event, but also an expression of mutual support between the community of the faithful and those who have gone forth. It is an occasion for laypeople to have their merit acknowledged and to express reverence for the Three Jewels.
Main Content
The Kathina Sutra stipulates that after the rainy-season retreat (vassa) ends, the Sangha announces the Kathina event, usually on the full-moon day of the ninth month (Pavāraṇā). During this period, devotees are encouraged to offer robes, cloth, and necessary requisites for practitioners to prepare for the cold season.
The basic rule of Kathina requires: (1) the offered items must be given during the appointed time; (2) the Sangha must formally announce the acceptance and distribution of these offerings; (3) after the Kathina season ends (usually one month after Pavāraṇā), the special benefits related to possessing new robes come to an end.
These benefits include: a bhikkhu is permitted to possess robes beyond the usual limit (from three robes to five robes); is permitted to store robes from one place to another without asking permission; is permitted to travel without fear of violating the rule concerning distance; and is exempt from the usual penalties prescribed when altering old robes.
Kathina also emphasizes the importance of collective effort in the community of practice.
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