San Bu Pm Qizil Np 6Asking an Unrelated Person for Robes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Aññātakaviññatti
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Aññātakaviññatti Sutta: Asking for a Cloak From an Unrelated Person
Background
The Aññātakaviññatti Sutta, concerning a request for a robe from an outside person, is a Vinaya text of the Pali Canon in the early tradition, belonging to the Vinaya system of the Buddhist Sangha. It is not a discourse (Sutta) but a normative Vinaya rule concerning how bhikkhus and bhikkhunis should conduct themselves when they need to ask for a cloak from people who are unknown or not directly related to them.
This context arises from the foundation of monastic practice among Buddhist renunciants, who have abandoned personal property and live dependent on voluntary offerings from laypeople. However, requesting must follow certain principles in order to avoid violating the principle of renunciation and greedlessness. The rule on requesting a cloak from persons outside one's circle of acquaintances is a way to maintain the spiritual independence and authenticity of the Sangha.
Main Content
The Aññātakaviññatti Sutta states that when a bhikkhu or bhikkhuni needs a cloak, they may make a request (viññatti), that is, notify or ask an unrelated person (aññātaka), meaning someone not belonging to the familiar community or not having a prior religious connection. The important point is that the manner of making this request must follow proper procedure and certain conditions.
According to the Vinaya tradition, a request for a cloak cannot be made arbitrarily or through overly obvious implication. Instead, the bhikkhu must communicate truthfully and with dignity, not relying on cunning or enticement. If the person offers voluntarily, that is good. If not, the bhikkhu should not coerce or press them.
The conditions for requesting a robe from an outside person include: there must be real necessity; the request must be made with dignity and truthfulness; and seductive or deceptive means must not be used. This rule is intended to preserve the honor of the Sangha and ensure that bhikkhus live in accordance with the spirit of renouncing material ambition.
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