Pgd Pm Bf13 Np 9Requesting Fine Robes From a Combined Robe Fund
Pāli / Sanskrit:Dutiyaupakkhata
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SUTTA ON REQUESTING AND IMMEDIATELY EXCHANGING ROBES FROM A COMMON FUND
Background
This text belongs to the Vinaya Pitaka of the early tradition, specifically within the Patimokkha, the detailed prohibitions and instructions for bhikkhus. This rule concerns the management of robes (civara) and the common property of the Sangha.
In the Buddha's time, bhikkhus often received robes from faithful laypeople or from a communal fund. Questions arose concerning how to handle robes when they were donated in a "combined" form, that is, when several people contributed money together to purchase robes of higher quality. This led to the establishment of clear rules. The rule was intended to prevent exclusive appropriation or misuse of communal property, while also protecting the simple spirit of monastic practice.
Main Content
The sutta states that when bhikkhus wish to request fine robes, or robes made of refined cloth, from a common fund of the Sangha (Dutiyaupakkhata), they must follow certain principles. A bhikkhu may not on his own seek a special robe for himself on personal grounds, but must have approval from the Sangha or from the appointed steward responsible for managing the fund.
In particular, this rule emphasizes that requesting a robe from the common fund must not be based on "personal preference" or on "a need different from that of the others." If a bhikkhu is ill or has special circumstances, a request for a better robe must be made transparently and fairly. The common fund exists to serve the whole Sangha, not to satisfy an individual's preferences.
This rule also implies that bhikkhus should know contentment (santutthi) with what is provided, rather than seeking ways to exploit the system for personal gain. The spirit of the Vinaya is to protect fairness, transparency, and integrity in the management of property.
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