Lzh Sarv Bu Pm Np 6Asking an Unrelated Person for Robes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Aññātakaviññatti
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The Discourse on Asking for a Robe from an Unrelated Person
Background
Aññātakaviññatti, asking for a robe from an unrelated person, is a rule in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravada Buddhist tradition, found in the Pātimokkha, the basic code for bhikkhus. This content arose from specific situations in the early monastic community, when bhikkhus needed clothing but did not have relatives or spiritual friends who could directly support them.
According to Buddhist history, in the early period bhikkhus lived entirely dependent on the support of the community of friends (kalyāṇamitta) and faithful people. However, such people were not always willing or available. Therefore, the Buddha established flexible regulations so that bhikkhus could request clothing from people who were not relatives, but had to observe certain principles concerning the manner of asking, the time, and the conditions.
Main Content
The Aññātakaviññatti Sutta states that when a bhikkhu needs clothing and has no relatives who can provide it, he is permitted to ask for a robe from an unrelated person (aññātaka), but he must do so according to the procedure appointed by the Buddha.
First, the bhikkhu must have a legitimate reason, such as an old robe being torn, damaged, or insufficient. He must not ask for a robe out of desire or in order to store up more than he actually needs. This reflects the principle of contentment (santuṭṭhi) in the bhikkhu’s life, possessing only what is necessary for practice.
Second, the manner of asking must be discreet and proper. The bhikkhu must not ask publicly or cause trouble for others, but should find a suitable opportunity and speak politely. This is intended to protect the dignity of both the giver and the requester, avoiding misunderstanding or abuse.
Third, the person asked should be someone who has had some contact or relationship with the bhikkhu, though not a "relative" in the traditional definition. This ensures that the request is not entirely groundless or an unwelcome surprise.
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