Lzh Sarv Bu Pm Pc 15Leaving Bedding Outside

The Seyyasanthārana Sutta (Leaving Bedding Outside)

Background

This text belongs to the Vinaya Pitaka in the Theravada tradition, specifically the Bhikkhunī Pātimokkha, among the rules concerning the daily life of bhikkhunīs. It concerns the management of the Sangha’s common property, especially essential items such as mats and bedding.

In the early days of Buddhism, the Buddha and his disciples lived dependent upon the offerings of laypeople. Living requisites such as mats, blankets, and pillows were offered to the Sangha by the fourth assembly, upāsakas and upāsikās. To avoid waste, loss, or discord within the monastic community, the Buddha established specific rules about how to preserve and use these properties. The Seyyasanthārana Sutta addresses the issue of leaving bedding outside the prescribed places.

Main Content

The basic rule of this text instructs that bhikkhunīs should not leave sleeping requisites such as mats, blankets, and pillows outside the permitted living areas, especially overnight. This is for many practical reasons: reducing loss, avoiding dishonest situations, protecting common property from weather, and maintaining discipline in the Sangha.

If there is a legitimate reason, such as wanting to expose them to sunlight for cleansing or to dry them after rain, bhikkhunīs are permitted to leave bedding outside for a short time, provided there is an intention to supervise it and not forget it. However, when the sun sets or night falls, these things must be brought inside the permitted living place or entrusted to someone responsible for protecting them.

This also reflects the principle of fewness of wishes (Appicchatā) in Buddhism: living simply, without greed, knowing contentment with what is necessary. Careful management of communal property is a way of showing respect for the offerings of lay supporters who place their trust in the Sangha.