Xct Mu Bi Pc 143Monastery Robes

SUTRA ON MONASTERY ROBES

Āvasathacīvara - Vinaya Piṭaka

Background

In the Theravāda tradition of the Buddha Dharma, the Vinaya Piṭaka records the rules of conduct for monks and nuns, the renunciant community following the teaching of the Buddha Gotama. The Āvasathacīvara (Monastery Robes) is a part of the Pātimokkha, or basic regulations concerning monastic attire.

During the Buddha’s lifetime, bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs were encouraged to use robes: simple garments sewn from gathered rags or old cloth. This not only reflected the spirit of austerity, but also symbolized renunciation of the world and the refusal to pursue outward beauty. However, when bhikkhus were criticized by others for dressing too oddly or improperly, the Buddha permitted the use of monastery robes, a standard form of clothing suitable for monastic life in a monastery.

Main Content

This text stipulates that bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs living in a monastery (āvasatha) should use standard robes sewn in the customary manner. These robes are regarded as part of the common property of the monastic community, not the private property of an individual. The main purpose is to ensure uniformity and dignity, and to avoid falling into differences in clothing, which could diminish merit or create distinctions within the monastic community.

This rule is also connected with the spirit of nissaranīyatā, complete renunciation. By receiving robes provided by the monastery, bhikkhus need not be anxious about clothing and can concentrate entirely on practice. It is a form of material support that allows monastics to focus on the spiritual aim of attainment and liberation from saṃsāra.

In addition, the text reflects the principle of samatānta, equality within the community. Whether one is a founder, an elder, or newly gone forth, all wear the same robes, signifying that in the monastery there is no difference in status based on clothing.