San Sarv Bu Pm Tf 11 Sk 35Lifted Robe
Pāli / Sanskrit:Ukkhittaka
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Explanation of the Ukkhittaka Sutta (The Lifted Robe Sutta)
Background
The Ukkhittaka Sutta appears in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically among the rules governing the clothing of bhikkhus and bhikkhunis in the Buddhist Sangha. The Vinaya Piṭaka is a collection of precepts and guidelines for conduct established by the Buddha to maintain discipline and the spirit of practice in the religious community.
The word "Ukkhittaka" in Pāli means "lifted up" or "cut/held short." This sutta is directly related to the way the kāṣāya robe (civara) is worn by monastics, one of the basic elements of Sangha practice. The kāṣāya robe is not only clothing but also a symbol of shaving the head, leaving home, and committing oneself wholly to practice. The way the robe is worn has strict regulations to reflect humility, dignity, and respect for elders.
Main Content
The Ukkhittaka Sutta refers to the situation in which a bhikkhu or bhikkhuni lifts the kāṣāya robe too high or does not wear it properly, causing the body to be exposed in a way inappropriate to religious discipline. The Buddha taught that the way of wearing the robe must follow certain standards in order to protect one’s own dignity and maintain the respected image of the Sangha.
Specifically, the kāṣāya robe should be worn so as to cover the body properly, reflecting the spirit of modesty encouraged by Buddhism. Lifting the robe too high is considered an unmindful or careless act, which may affect one’s own attitude in practice and affect the community. These regulations are not unreasonable restrictions, but practical instructions helping monastics always maintain mindfulness and alertness in every action, even in matters that seem small.
Practical Meaning
In the context of modern practice, the Ukkhittaka Sutta teaches us that attention to small details is very important.
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