Lzh Sarv Bu Pm 2 Sk 86Low Seats

The Nīcāsana Scripture (Low Seats)

Context

The Nīcāsana scripture belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon in the Theravāda tradition, especially among the regulations on the conditions for using monastic goods. During the Buddha's lifetime, bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs needed to follow detailed rules regarding property and daily life. These regulations were not meant to create difficulty, but to train restraint, build a mind of equality, and remove distinctions based on material conditions.

The Nīcāsana scripture specifically discusses the use of low seats (nīcāsana), in contrast to luxurious high seats (ucchāsana). This is a small detail but has great meaning in Buddhism, showing the difference between the renunciant way of life and the cravings of the world. Even with a simple item such as a seat, the Buddha Dharma guides monastics in how to keep the mind from being governed by comfort and luxury.

Main Content

According to the Vinaya Piṭaka tradition, bhikkhus are permitted to use low, ordinary seats, undecorated and not made from precious materials. This is intended to educate a humble mind and restrain the limits of the renunciant life. High seats (ucchāsana) are regarded as symbols of arrogance and worldly pleasure, unsuitable to those who have gone forth to seek the Path.

This scripture is often connected with several other rules in the Vinaya Piṭaka, such as restrictions on the size and height of beds. Specifically, bhikkhus are not allowed to use beds or seats whose height exceeds a certain standard. If they use them, they violate a particular rule in the Pātimokkha, the 227 disciplinary rules for bhikkhus.

This reflects the philosophy that every object, however small, has the capacity to stir the human mind. When we come into contact with luxurious things, the mind easily gives rise to craving, comparison, and jealousy. Therefore, practicing with simple items is a way for monastics to continually train the mind in non-attachment.