San Sarv Bu Pm Tf 11 Np 7Accepting Too Many Robes

Tatuttari Sutta: An Explanation of Accepting Too Many Robes

Background

The Tatuttari Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Theravāda Canon and is one of the Pātimokkha Nuns’ Rules. The background of the teaching is connected with the management of property and requisites in the community of monks and nuns. The Buddha saw that some nuns had accumulated too many robes (cīvara), exceeding actual need, which was contrary to the Buddhist principles of humility, non-greed, and a simple way of life.

The robe is not merely a garment, but also a symbol of the life of practice, indicating separation from worldly material desires. Accumulating too many robes reflects a state of greed (lobha), obstructing spiritual development. Therefore, the Buddha established this rule to regulate conduct, helping bhikkhunīs maintain a diligent mind through sincere action and freedom from attachment.

Main Content

The Tatuttari rule states that nuns may not accept or accumulate more than three sets of robes (tatuttari, meaning “beyond three”). Accordingly, each nun should possess only three basic sets of robes, corresponding to the three seasons in the Buddhist year or serving three different purposes in the life of practice. If a nun accepts more than this number, she commits a significant fault requiring public confession before the Sangha.

The teaching details specific cases: when someone wishes to offer robes to a nun, she may accept them only if the total number does not exceed three sets. If she already possesses three sets and receives more, she must refuse them or transfer them to someone else. This rule also applies to situations in which robes are lost, repaired, or replaced. The spirit of the rule is to maintain balance between actual needs and a simple way of life, avoiding disorder in possession.