Lzh Sarv Bu Pm 2 Np 10Excessive Prompting for Robe Funds

Explanation of the Sutta: Excessive Prompting in Asking for Funds for an Inner Robe (Rāja)

Background

In the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, the Vinaya Piṭaka is the collection of rules of practice established by the Buddha to protect harmony in the community of monks and nuns. This sutta belongs to the Bhikkhunī Pātimokkha, the basic rules for female monastics.

The sutta "Excessive Prompting in Asking for Funds for an Inner Robe" (Rāja) was taught by the Buddha in the context of bhikkhunīs abusing the practice of seeking support from laypeople in order to have private funds for purchasing an inner robe. Instead of accepting what was offered, they actively urged, hinted, or encouraged lay patrons to offer for these needs. This action violated the principle of pure alms-seeking, purity in asking.

Main Content

The rule in the sutta states that if a nun excessively urges (atipaṭhaṇa), hints, or encourages a donor to ask for money or requisites for the purchase of an inner robe, she commits one of the serious training offenses (Pācittiya) in the Vinaya Piṭaka. Specifically, this conduct is considered "excess in prompting" (atireka paṭhaṇa).

The subtle distinction here is between: (1) accepting what is voluntarily offered, and (2) actively suggesting, urging, or encouraging. The Buddha did not forbid bhikkhunīs from having an inner robe, which is a legitimate need, but he forbade a manner of asking that exceeds dignified restraint, through suggestive speech or encouraging action.

This sutta reflects the principle: "A disciple should be modest in asking, never actively suggesting or urging others to give, even when the need is legitimate." Violation of this rule requires correction (pācittiya), a form of confession and renewed practice.

Practical Meaning

This sutta teaches us two important lessons. First, the rules of the Vinaya Piṭaka are not absolute prohibitions against material needs, but guidance on proper attitude and conduct.