Lzh Sarv Bi Vb Pc 88Lying on the Same Sheet
Pāli / Sanskrit:Ekattharaṇatuvaṭṭana
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Explanation of the Ekattharaṇatuvaṭṭana Discourse
Lying on the Same Mat
Background
The Ekattharaṇatuvaṭṭana discourse belongs to the Pācittiya section (minor offenses) in the Bhikkhu Vibhaṅga of the traditional Theravāda Vinaya Piṭaka. This is one of the regulations related to disciplined conduct expressed in the communal life of monastics, especially daily-life rules intended to maintain purity of body and mind.
The background of this discourse comes from specific situations that arose in the first monastic community. The Buddha, through observation and wisdom, established detailed regulations to protect the honor of the Sangha, avoiding suspicions or conduct that might damage the trust of the community. The rule about lying on the same mat is part of these regulations, reflecting special attention to relations among monastics within an ethical and religious context.
Main Content
The rule on lying on the same mat (Ekattharaṇatuvaṭṭana) concerns two monastics sharing the same mat or sleeping place under specific conditions. The discourse states that a monastic should not lie on the same mat with another monastic in certain circumstances, unless there are legitimate reasons such as illness, difficult conditions, or permission from the community.
The basic reason for this rule is to avoid unseemly appearances (aniruddha rūpa) that ordinary people may misunderstand or suspect. Buddhism always emphasizes the importance of protecting the honor of the Sangha, not only actual purity but also purity in the perception of others. This action is connected with the principle “do not create an appearance of misconduct” (na samphassati): monastics should not create conditions that easily lead to misunderstanding.
Permitted exceptions for lying on the same mat include medical cases, or situations with confirmation from trustworthy persons.
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