San Mg Bu Pm Pc 28Giving Robes

Exposition of the Cīvaradāna Sutta (Giving Robes)

Background

The Cīvaradāna Sutta (Giving Robes) is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha of the Sangha, among the rules concerning the robes of bhikkhus. The context of this sutta arose from specific situations in the early community of practice, when matters related to the acquisition, sharing, and use of robes among members of the Sangha needed to be given legal form.

The Buddha Shakyamuni established detailed rules on how to give robes (cīvara) properly, in order to maintain morality in the community of monks and nuns, avoid disputes, and cultivate a spirit of joy and purity in communal practice. Robes are not only a daily necessity but also a symbol of humility, Dharma practice, and communal connection.

Main Content

The Cīvaradāna Sutta sets forth the lawful ways to give robes to bhikkhus, bhikkhunīs, or those about to go forth. When a practitioner wishes to give robes, they must follow several basic principles: first, there must be an intention of compassion, not calculation or personal gain; second, the gift must be given to one worthy to receive it, namely those who maintain the discipline and have wholesome minds; third, the manner of giving must be open and transparent, not secretive or a cause of conflict in the community.

The text also makes clear how robes are to be shared fairly, so that all members of the Sangha may benefit from the generosity (dāna) of the donor. In particular, when someone offers a set of robes to the entire Sangha, the donor accumulates great merit because the benefit spreads widely. The sutta emphasizes that the act of giving not only helps those who receive it, but also provides an opportunity to cultivate compassion, happiness, and faith in the donor.

Practical Meaning

The deep meaning of the Cīvaradāna Sutta lies in nurturing the virtue of joy through sharing and unconditional compassion.