San Mg Bu Pm Np 13Silk Blanket
Pāli / Sanskrit:Kosiya
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Explanation of the Silk Cloth Scripture (Kosiya)
Background
The Kosiya scripture (Silk Cloth) is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, specifically in the Bhikkhunī Pātimokkha, the discipline for bhikkhunīs, in the Nidāna section, the rules. These are detailed regulations on the way of life of bhikkhunīs in the Sangha community, recorded from the specific situations in which the Buddha taught.
The background of the scripture concerns the issue of material use, especially luxurious things, in the life of monks and nuns. In the Buddha’s time, the distinction between what was appropriate to the renunciant way of life and what ran counter to the spirit of practice was very clear. The Vinaya Piṭaka records concrete situations to help disciples understand the boundary between diligence and greed.
Main Content
The Kosiya scripture concerns the regulation on the use of silk cloth (kosiya), a luxurious fabric regarded as a symbol of extravagance in the Buddha’s time. According to the Vinaya tradition, bhikkhunīs are permitted to use basic requisites to cover the body, but should not use things that are overly sumptuous or luxurious.
This regulation arose from specific situations in which bhikkhunīs began using rare and precious silk cloths as coverings for the body or head. The Buddha, recognizing the violation of the spirit of practice, that is, giving rise to the intention to abandon unnecessary things, established a clear regulation concerning the kinds of cloth permitted for use.
According to the Pātimokkha, silk cloth (kosiya) is prohibited for use as requisites of practice. Instead, bhikkhunīs are encouraged to use coarse kinds of cloth such as cotton, hemp, or cloth supplied by faithful donors. This regulation is not unreasonable harshness, but an expression of balance between practical life and the ideal of practice.
Meaning for Practice
Beyond the formal legal aspect, the Kosiya scripture carries deep meaning regarding the psychology of practice. The prohibition on using soft, luxurious objects is meant to prevent the tendency to seek comfort and enjoyment in the renunciant life.
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