San Lo Bi Vb Pc 71Borrowed Robes

Cīvarasaṅkamanīya Sutta (Borrowed Robes)

Background

This sutta belongs to the Khandhaka, the section of communal rules in the Vinaya, and shows the deep concern of the early Buddha-Dharma for propriety and truthfulness in the life of practice. The background arose when bhikkhus in the Sangha realized that the use of borrowed robes could create problems concerning ownership and rights, thereby affecting the purity of mind and community.

The Buddha, with his understanding of the nature of the human mind, formed detailed rules to protect discipline and the spirit of humility. This reflects a basic principle of the Vinaya: it is not intended to restrict freedom, but to nurture mindfulness (sati) and the spirit of renunciation (nekkhamma).

Main Content

Cīvarasaṅkamanīya concerns the rule on the use of borrowed robes (cīvara, robe) among bhikkhus. According to the Vinaya, when a bhikkhu wishes to borrow another bhikkhu’s robe, he must observe strict conditions. First, there must be clear consent from the owner of the robe. Second, the loan must have a definite time limit, not be indefinite. Third, the borrower is responsible for carefully preserving the robe and must not allow it to be damaged or lost.

This rule is also directed toward avoiding situations that create disputes or dissatisfaction in the community. If the borrower does not comply, or creates confusion about ownership, this is considered a Pācittiya offense, a minor fault requiring confession. The specific rule emphasizes that the articles of the Sangha must be handled with respect, because they have been gathered through the compassion of donors.

Practical Meaning

More deeply, Cīvarasaṅkamanīya is not only a material rule but also a lesson in mindfulness. The proper use of a borrowed robe is a symbol of non-attachment (anattā): the bhikkhu practices not venerating objects as though they were “mine.”