Lzh Sarv Bu Pm Pc 27Sewing Robes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Cīvarasibbana
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EXPLANATION OF THE BRAHMIN DISCOURSE ON SEWING ROBES
Background
The rule concerning the sewing of robes (Cīvarasibbana) is recorded in the Patimokkha section of the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically among the Pācittiya rules. This text arose from specific circumstances in the Sangha community during the Buddha’s time, when bhikkhus encountered difficulties connected with the making and maintenance of robes.
The robe (civara) is not merely clothing, but an essential requisite for the life of practice of bhikkhus and bhikkhunis. Sewing robes, cutting cloth, and related tasks require skill, time, and effort. The Buddha established detailed rules to ensure that this activity would not become a means for desire, vanity, or negligence in practice, while also protecting the integrity of the Sangha.
Main Content
The rule on sewing robes chiefly addresses issues such as: women or those outside the religion should not be made to sew robes in one’s place; one should not be clever or deceitful in gathering materials; one should not abuse the labor of others; and one should follow certain standards concerning size, color, and quality.
Specifically, the text states that a bhikkhu should not request or urge others, especially those outside the religion, to sew robes for him in unnecessary situations. If a bhikkhu abuses authority or influence to compel others to do this work, he violates the spirit of the Pācittiya rules, offenses for which a bhikkhu must reproach himself and make correction.
The Buddha emphasized that bhikkhus should sew robes themselves or cooperate fairly with others in the Sangha. In addition, the rule also warns against wasting precious time on complicated sewing work, and encourages balancing care for requisites with concentration on the practice of samādhi and wisdom.
Practical Meaning
The discourse on sewing robes is not merely an administrative regulation, but also a means of practice for the Sangha.
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