San Sarv Bu Pm Finot Np 6Asking an Unrelated Person for Robes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Aññātakaviññatti
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Explanation of the Aññātakaviññatti Discourse (Asking an Unrelated Person for Robes)
Background
Aññātakaviññatti (Pāli: aññātaka = unrelated person; viññatti = request, asking) is an important part of the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition. This discourse is recorded in the regulations on how bhikkhus must ask for and receive loose robe cloth (cīvara), one of the five basic requisites (pañcakaraṇīya) of a renunciant.
The background of this rule arose from practical situations in the life of the early Sangha. When bhikkhus needed new robes but had no relatives or acquaintances among the fourfold community, the four groups of disciples consisting of bhikkhus, bhikkhunīs, upāsakas, and upāsikās, they had to know how to ask for robes from people who had no familiar relationship with them. This was a situation requiring upright conduct, without causing disturbance, and in accordance with certain ethical principles.
Main Content
According to the Vinaya Piṭaka tradition, when a bhikkhu needs to ask for robes from outsiders, people he does not know, the rule states that there must be an official “request” (viññatti). Specifically, a bhikkhu should not privately ask a stranger directly, but must use appropriate forms of asking.
The main content of the discourse concerns three points: First, clearly identifying who an “unrelated person” is in the context of the religious community. This person is not one’s mother, father, siblings, or blood relative. Second, the process of asking for robes must observe the principle of not provoking, not causing discomfort, and not using suggestive speech or informal bargaining. Third, the bhikkhu must have a humble attitude, understanding that receiving robes is due to the compassion of the donor, not a natural entitlement.
Related regulations also indicate that if the person refuses, the bhikkhu must accept this calmly. He must not press, repeat the request many times, or use methods that create psychological pressure.
Practical Meaning
The deeper meaning of Aññātakaviññatti does not stop at the technical regulation on how to ask for robes.
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