San Lo Bi Vb Pc 77Cīvara-pārihārika

Cīvara-pārihārika: Sutta on Offenses Related to Robes

Background

Cīvara-pārihārika is a Vinaya section in the Theravāda Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically among the regulations concerning Pācittiya, offenses arising from minor violations that require confession and acknowledgment. The word cīvara means cloth robe or garment, the most basic article of a monastic; pārihārika refers to offenses or violations of the rules related to the use, care, or exchange of robes.

This background arose in the Buddha’s time, when the Buddha and his disciples laid down subtle rules on how to handle robes in order to eliminate impure actions, prevent greed (lobha), envy, or misguided devotees from taking advantage. These rules ensure that bhikkhus do not become slaves to material things, do not accept too many garments out of desire, and always maintain humility in a simple life.

Main Content

Cīvara-pārihārika records specific situations in which a bhikkhu violates rules related to robes. For example, a monastic should not ask others to make robes that are too expensive, should not store cloth beyond need, or exchange clothing in a suggestive or greedy manner. These offenses, though not grave offenses such as Pārājika or Saṅghādisesa, still need to be publicly acknowledged before the Sangha or an individual.

The sutta also lays down the procedure: if a bhikkhu makes a robe from donated cloth, he must show proper gratitude and must not be overly acquisitive or elaborate. If he violates the rule, he must confess according to the Pācittiya rite, a form of confession that does not bring long-term suspension but requires public acknowledgment of the fault.

This approach reflects that the Theravāda Vinaya is not a harsh body of laws, but a framework of guidance for nurturing the mind. Each rule is intended to help monastics become aware of unmindful movements, thoughts containing craving, or arrogance.