San Lo Bi Vb Pc 113Atirekaprāmāṇikamañca

The Atirekaprāmāṇikamañca Scripture

The Rule on Excessive Measure and the Bed

Context

The Atirekaprāmāṇikamañca scripture (Pāli) is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Parivāra, the Vinaya appendix, in the section of detailed regulations concerning violations related to property and requisites in the monastic community. The term "Atirekaprāmāṇika" means "exceeding the standard measure" or "beyond the prescribed limit," and is often applied to objects that are permitted for use but must not exceed certain standards.

In the context of the Vinaya Piṭaka, the disciplinary scriptures concerning possessions aim to maintain discipline and fairness within the monastic community. Theravāda Buddhism values simplicity, freedom from material ambition, and fairness among members of the community. Therefore, regulations concerning maximum dimensions for requisites such as beds, chairs, clothing, and so forth are expressions of these principles.

This scripture specifically addresses cases of violation related to a bed (mañca) or objects whose dimensions exceed the prescribed standard. In the Buddha's time, items that were too large or too luxurious were regarded as expressions of greed and burden-bearing, contrary to the spirit of going forth.

Main Content

This scripture stipulates that a monk or nun may not possess or use beds whose dimensions exceed the standards established by the Buddha. According to the Vinaya, a standard bed has a length of approximately eight Pāli cubits (atthahattha), corresponding to about four meters or less, and an appropriate width.

If a monk or nun possesses a bed exceeding this measure, it is regarded as a breach of the rule, requiring adjustment or relinquishment. The violation may entail certain penalties within the community, including confession or admonition, depending on the degree and intention.

This regulation does not apply only to beds, but also extends to other objects such as tables, chairs, or other personal items. The purpose is to ensure that monastics do not fall into luxury, and to maintain fairness in the distribution of the monastery's shared resources.