Lzh Sarv Bu Pm Np 7Accepting Too Many Robes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Tatuttari
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The Tatuttari Sutta — Vietnamese Explanation
Background
The Tatuttari Sutta (Pāli: Tatuttari, meaning "beyond three robes") lies in the Vinaya Pitaka of the Theravada Buddhist tradition, specifically in the Pātimokkha Nuns’ Rules, the disciplinary rules for female monastics (bhikkhunis). This text appears in the context of the Buddha establishing rules for the management of robe property among the female Sangha, in order to counter greed and maintain simplicity in the life of study and practice.
At that time, some female monastics had accumulated too many garments, more than were necessary for seasonal changes or weather conditions. This action conflicted with the Noble Path, where property is regarded as an obstacle to liberation of mind. Therefore, the Buddha established this rule to educate the female Sangha in sufficiency (mattaññutā) and to prevent desire (lobha).
Main Content
The Tatuttari Sutta states that a female monastic should not keep more than three sets of robes. If she exceeds this number, she violates a Pācittiya rule, a subtle offense requiring confession and repentance. This rule developed from specific cases witnessed by the Buddha, when some female monastics allowed the mind to become attached to ownership and accumulation.
The structure of the rule is very clear: three robes are the maximum permitted. If a female monastic receives a fourth robe, she must give it to another sister or to the Sangha, or formally relinquish ownership. This rule is not unreasonable severity, but an educational mechanism helping female monastics recognize that owning material goods is dangerous for a mind resolved on going forth.
The notable point is that the Buddha did not absolutely forbid the possession of clothing; he allowed three sets, which is practical and follows the principle of the discipline: neither too harsh nor too lax. This is the middle way (majjhimā patipada).
Practical Meaning
The Tatuttari Sutta teaches us the importance of restraining desire even in the smallest things.
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