San Mu Bu Pm GBM 3 Sk 17Lifted Robe
Pāli / Sanskrit:Ukkhittaka
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THE UKKHITTAKA DISCOURSE
Background
The Ukkhittaka discourse is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, the code of practice established by Shakyamuni Buddha for the Sangha. In the texts of the Vinaya Piṭaka, regulations concerning robes (cīvara) occupy an important place, because the robe is not only a covering for the body but also a symbol of discipline and respect in the life of one gone forth.
This discourse was spoken in the context of the Buddha witnessing monastics who did not follow the proper standards for wearing the robe. The “lifting of the robe,” that is, putting on or pulling the robe over the shoulder loosely or improperly, was considered an action showing lack of respect and lack of serious cultivation. The Buddha saw that this would lead to the decline of discipline in the Sangha, and therefore established specific rules concerning how to wear the robe.
Main Content
In this discourse, the Buddha points out that monastics who lift the robe, leaving it loose or putting it on improperly, violate a basic principle of cultivation. This action is not merely a matter of clothing, but reflects an attitude of indifference, arrogance, or laziness in practice.
The Buddha established a rule (pātimokkha) that monastics must wear the robe properly. The robe must be drawn up and cover the shoulder in an appropriate manner, respecting both form and spirit. Those who violate this rule are disciplined according to the degree of the violation, from admonition (tisaraṇa), to a penalty requiring confession (pabbajjanīya), and in serious cases even expulsion from the Sangha.
The discourse emphasizes that the way of wearing the robe is an external form reflecting inward cultivation. If a person gone forth cannot observe these simple rules, how can he practice more difficult matters? Therefore, maintaining discipline in every small detail is the foundation for progress on the path to liberation.
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