Lzh Sarv Bu Pm 2 Np 13A New Blanket Should Have Mixed Colors

Explanation of the Sutta: A New Blanket Should Have Many Colors

Background

This sutta is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha section of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. The Vinaya Piṭaka is the collection of rules that monastics (bhikkhus) must observe in order to maintain discipline in the Sangha. These rules are not arbitrary prohibitions, but were set forth with a specific purpose: to protect the excellence and purity of the fourfold assembly, monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen, to prevent criticism from those without faith, and to help practitioners cultivate virtue.

Rules concerning material things used every day, such as a blanket or robe (cīvara), require special attention. Theravāda Buddhism emphasizes that the basic requisites of monastics should not be overly luxurious or splendid; this reflects the principles of patience or moderation (khanti) and peace (santi) in daily life.

Main Content

The rule on the new blanket (dvebhāga) emphasizes that when a bhikkhu receives a new blanket, especially one newly woven from cloth fibers, that blanket should be dyed or combined with several colors rather than left in a bright white or overly fresh appearance.

The core reason for this rule is to protect quietness and prevent discord in the Sangha. A blanket that is too bright white or too vivid in color may:

First, attract attention and encourage heedlessness, contrary to the purpose of a bhikkhu’s practice. Theravāda Buddhism regards modesty and not drawing attention to oneself as important elements of Dharma practice.

Second, it may cause jealousy or distinction within the Sangha. If some bhikkhus have bright white blankets while others have faded blankets, this may create mental division.

Third, this rule reflects the principle of "modesty and moral shame," one of the foundations of Buddhist ethics.