Upp Pc 70Transferring to Another
Pāli / Sanskrit:Vikappana
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Exposition of the Vikappana Discourse (Transferring)
Background
The Vikappana discourse is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha section, the basic code for bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs. The Vinaya Piṭaka is not a collection of Dharma sermons like other scriptures, but the code of communal practice for the Sangha, the community of those gone forth according to the Buddha's teaching. In this context, Vikappana, transferring or assigning rights, is a rule concerning the management of property and the use of material things by bhikkhus.
This discourse reflects a basic principle of Theravāda Buddhism: those gone forth should not cling to or accumulate personal possessions. Instead, items are used communally in the Sangha or managed according to clear regulations. Transferring (vikappana) is a legal mechanism that protects this principle, ensuring that the use of property always remains within the framework of the Discipline.
Main Content
According to the Vinaya tradition, "transferring" is the formal act by which a monastic hands over or assigns the use of an item to another monastic or to the Sangha. This is not selling or giving in the worldly sense, but changing the right of use of property within the legal framework of the Sangha.
Transferring may occur in situations where a bhikkhu no longer needs an object, or wishes to change the way his property is used. The important point is that this act must be performed openly and with witnesses, not secretly or deceitfully. This transparency ensures that no one acts selfishly and that no disputes arise regarding ownership of property.
The rule on transferring also helps protect the Discipline concerning the prohibition against keeping too many possessions. A bhikkhu has the right to keep only the most necessary items: monastic robes, alms bowl, and basic living implements. Anything beyond essential need must be transferred to the Sangha or to another person.
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