Xct Mu Bi Pm Pc 145Having Someone Else Wash Clothes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Having someone else wash clothes
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The Sutta on Having Someone Else Wash the Buddhist Robe (Xct Mu Bi Pm Pc 145)
Background
This sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddha-Dharma, specifically to the Pātimokkha section, the things to be avoided. In the Buddha’s time, bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs had to observe rules concerning livelihood, bodily discipline, property, and the mind. These regulations were not without cause, but arose from actual situations in the monastic community.
The sutta presents a case concerning the use of a robe (uttarāsaṅga), an important part of monastic clothing. At that time, bhikkhus had to wash their own robes or entrust them to someone reliable. This was not merely a matter of hygiene, but expressed the principle of self-reliance, not depending excessively on others, and maintaining the dignity of self-control in managing personal requisites.
Main Content
According to the Vinaya Piṭaka, if a bhikkhu or bhikkhunī allows someone else, who is not a nurse or a legitimate close associate, to wash robes without a valid reason, this is considered an act unsuitable to the holy discipline (Pātimokkha). Specifically, this action may violate principles concerning unnecessary dependence or the misuse of the labor of those who remain.
The rule clearly states that a bhikkhu may entrust the washing of robes to the community’s robe steward, or to someone with a special relationship, such as a long-term supporter of the monastery. However, casually entrusting the task to anyone without consideration reflects a mind attached to gain and comfort, and a lack of careful practice.
The deeper reason for this rule is to teach bhikkhus humility, self-reliance in practice, and respect for the labor of others. The Buddha-Dharma does not encourage laziness or placing unnecessary burdens on those newly gone for refuge.
Practical Meaning
This sutta teaches that a practitioner must balance autonomy with the reasonable request for support. It is not always necessary to do everything oneself, but one should not abuse the kindness of others for one’s own comfort.
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