Upp Np 12Pure Black Blanket
Pāli / Sanskrit:Suddhakāla
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The Sutta on the Pure Black Blanket
Context
The “Pure Black Blanket” Sutta (Suddhakāla) is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Nissaggiya Pācittiya section, the offenses requiring relinquishment and confession. This part of the Vinaya Piṭaka was established to guide the domestic and monastic life of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs, setting out in detail actions to avoid, requisites that may be possessed, and ways of handling violations.
Suddhakāla means “pure time” or “pure blanket,” and concerns the possession of fabrics, blankets, and clothing in the Sangha. This is not a major doctrinal discourse but a specific rule of discipline, intended to protect the spirit of humility and reduce desire among bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs.
The background to this rule derives from occasions when the Buddha witnessed his disciples acting unwholesomely with regard to material things, especially by accumulating and using luxurious blankets. Rather than merely rebuking them, the Buddha guided the Sangha in establishing specific rules for self-restraint.
Main Content
The regulation concerning the “pure black blanket” revolves around the use of blankets, especially those of a dark color, either black or dark. Bhikkhus are allowed to possess blankets necessary for sleeping and keeping warm, but blankets that are too luxurious, brightly colored, or woven from rare materials are prohibited.
Suddhakāla states that the blanket used must be “clean” according to the Sangha’s standard, not because black is aesthetically superior, but because it does not attract attention and does not arouse desire or rivalry within the Sangha. A black or dark-colored blanket is regarded as the humblest choice, and therefore should be encouraged.
If a bhikkhu possesses a blanket that does not accord with this standard, he must relinquish it or transfer it to those who are not bhikkhus.
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