Lzh Sarv Bu Pm Np 28Rainy-Season Robes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Vassikasāṭika
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Explanation of the Vassikasāṭika Sutta (Rainy-Season Robe)
Background
The Vassikasāṭika Sutta lies in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha Nissaggiya Pācittiya section, rules concerning requisites and property that monks and nuns must observe. The rainy season (vassa) is the period of concentrated practice for bhikkhus and bhikkhunis, when they remain in one place for the rains retreat, enduring the weather and staying away from crowded places. This is why Buddhism gives special regulations concerning the rain robe, a most necessary item for protecting the body from harsh weather.
This text records specific situations from the history of the early Sangha, when some members of the Sangha did not follow the regulations on managing property, leading Buddha Shakyamuni to establish rules in order to maintain purity and discipline in the community. This rule is especially important because it relates to stable residence and the merit of practice during the vassa season.
Main Content
The text states that bhikkhus and bhikkhunis must prepare rain robes before entering the season of practice, or within ten days after the season begins. This robe is called vassikasāṭika, meaning "a robe for the rainy season." The rule forbids monks and nuns from storing rain robes for too long after the season ends, or from accumulating more robes than they actually need.
If a monk or nun does not comply, such as keeping a rain robe too long or taking possession of another’s robe without permission, that act is considered nissaggiya pācittiya, an offense requiring forfeiture (nirgame) and confession (pācittiya). This expresses the view of early Buddhism: material property is only a means for practice, not the final goal.
This rule also reflects fairness and sharing within the Sangha. Bhikkhus and bhikkhunis live dependent upon the offerings of Buddhists. Therefore, they should not hoard excessively or seize what is unnecessary, because this violates the trust of the community and creates affliction for practitioners.
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