Lzh Sarv Bi Vb Pc 134Group Robes

Sutta on Group Robes (Gaṇacīvara Pācittiya)

Background

The Sutta on Group Robes is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically the Pācittiya section, rules concerning minor offenses requiring confession. It is part of the Vibhaṅga, the division explaining each rule in detail within the monastic discipline.

This sutta arose from specific situations related to the sharing of robes among bhikkhus. In monastic life at vihāras, the matter of sharing simple requisites, such as robes and personal garments, often caused disputes or unfairness. The Buddha, recognizing this, established clear principles for managing and sharing robes according to communal rules.

Gaṇacīvara means “robe of the group” or “robe distributed by group.” It is not a personal robe, but common property of the Sangha. This rule instructs bhikkhus to follow strict regulations when using or sharing this kind of robe.

Main Content

According to the Pāli Canon tradition, this rule states that when bhikkhus prepare to distribute group robes to the community, they must follow the exact procedure prescribed by the Buddha. If a bhikkhu takes or uses a group robe on his own without permission from the community (Sangha), or does not follow the public process of sharing, he commits a Pācittiya offense.

Specifically, the Buddha taught that robes given to the group must be managed by the entire Sangha. If a bhikkhu or a small group arbitrarily decides to divide these robes without informing the whole Sangha, or if they try to take advantage of the situation for personal gain, that is a violation. This principle protects fairness and trust within the Sangha.

A Pācittiya offense in this case requires the offending bhikkhu to make confession before the Sangha, acknowledge the fault, and resolve not to repeat it. This is a form of self-awareness and correction lighter than grave offenses such as Pārājika or Saṅghādisesa.