San Lo Bi Vb Pc 68Robe Size
Pāli / Sanskrit:Sugatacīvara
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Sugatacīvara Sutta – The Proper Robe
Background
The Sugatacīvara Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, specifically within the Pātimokkha, the 227-rule code of conduct for bhikkhus. This part is called Pācittiya (Paccayavagga), the lighter offenses requiring confession.
The history of the Vinaya records that during the Buddha’s lifetime, he and the bhikkhus lived according to principles of training and study. When problems arose in the monastic community, the Buddha would teach and establish suitable rules. The Sugatacīvara Sutta arose from a specific situation concerning the sewing and use of robes (cīvara) by bhikkhus.
The robe is not ordinary clothing, but a symbol of going forth and of reverence for the Dharma and Sangha. Each bhikkhu must wear three robes: the inner robe, the upper robe (uttarāsaṅga), and the outer robe (saṅghāṭī). The rules concerning the size, sewing, and use of the robe all carry deep meaning regarding moderation and freedom from ambition in a holy and pure way of life.
Main Content
This sutta concerns an offense related to making a robe beyond the standard size. According to the Buddha’s rule, when making a robe, a bhikkhu must follow certain dimensions so as not to fall away in practice and not to be ostentatious. If a bhikkhu deliberately makes a robe whose size exceeds the prescribed standard, such as one too wide or too long, without proper reason, this is considered a Pācittiya offense.
A Pācittiya offense is not a grave offense like Pārājika or Saṅghādisesa, but it still requires the bhikkhu to confess before another bhikkhu and make amends. Committing this offense does not lead to expulsion from the Sangha or suspension, but it is an expression of lack of proper disposition or disrespect for the rules of the Sangha established by the Buddha.
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