San Sarv Bi Pm Tf 3215 Np 16Haste-Cloth
Pāli / Sanskrit:Accekacīvara
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The Accekacīvara Sutta (Haste-Cloth) — Exposition
Background
The Accekacīvara Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, in the Pātimokkha, the code of self-restraint that all bhikkhus must observe. Specifically, this sutta is rule 16 in the group of lighter offenses (Nisaggiya Pācittiya), wrongful actions that are not offenses of defeat but require confession and the forfeiture of the offending item.
This picture arises from the earliest period of the Sangha, when the Buddha and his disciples were still alive. These regulations were established not to punish or humiliate, but to educate the mind and preserve discipline in the monastic community.
Main Content
Accekacīvara means “haste-cloth” or “robe made quickly,” referring to robes sewn or made without following the proper traditional method. This rule forbids bhikkhus from preparing or arranging robe-cloth hastily without urgent need, or without following the regulations on the use of woven cloth by the Sangha.
This rule specifically states that if a bhikkhu receives cloth to make a robe, but has not yet met a direct need or has not been permitted by the Sangha to complete this matter, the action is inappropriate. He must confess this action and hand the robe over to the Sangha, and only then may keep it if there is genuine need.
This rule reflects a basic principle of Theravāda Buddhism: a bhikkhu should possess only what is necessary for the life of practice. Unfounded accumulation or excessive preparation is considered a sign of greed (lobha) and non-monastic behavior.
Practical Meaning
The Accekacīvara Sutta teaches us that practice is not about accumulation or preparing “just in case.” The mind of a bhikkhu should always be directed toward present need, not anxiety about the future or latent greed.
This has profound meaning for the monastic community today.
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