Lzh Sarv Bu Pm 2 Np 15A Sitting-Blanket

EXPLANATION OF THE SITTING-MAT SUTTA (NISĪDANASANTHATA)

Background

The Sitting-Mat Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, specifically the Bhikkhu Pātimokkha, the principal discipline for bhikkhus. This is a minor training rule (khuddasikkhāpada) among the ethical regulations, relating to the daily conduct of those gone forth. The name "Nisīdanasanthata" is translated as "sitting mat" or "sitting pad," an essential article in the retreat practice of bhikkhus.

The background for the arising of this sutta is that the Buddha and the Sangha observed violations or improper actions related to the use of sitting mats, pieces of cloth or padding used for seated meditation, practice, or study activities. This rule reflects discipline in the life of practice and at the same time protects harmony within the Sangha.

Main Content

The sutta regulates the proper use, management, and handling of a sitting mat. Bhikkhus are required to respect the common property of the Sangha and not to be careless or wasteful with these requisites. A sitting mat is not personal property but property of the Sangha, and therefore its use must follow these principles:

First, the sitting mat must be used for legitimate purposes of practice: seated meditation (samādhi), Dharma practice, or study of the scriptures. Those gone forth must not use it for bodily comfort in a careless way or in a manner inappropriate to the spirit of modesty.

Second, bhikkhus must take careful care of the sitting mat, not allowing it to become dirty, torn, or damaged. Protecting common requisites is an expression of respect for the Sangha and of prudent care.

Third, the sutta lays down specific actions that should not be done, such as leaving a sitting mat outdoors for too long so that it becomes damp and moldy, or placing it in unsuitable places where animals may gnaw it.