Xct Mu Bu Vb Pc 25Sewing Robes

Sutta on the Method of Sewing Robes (Cīvarasibbana)

Background

This rule is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, in the Pācittiya section of the Pātimokkha — the fundamental code of training for bhikkhus. During the early period of Buddhism, when the Monastic Community was still small, the Blessed One established rules on the basis of specific circumstances in order to provide ethical guidance and to govern the affairs of monastic life.

The rule concerning the method of sewing robes (Cīvarasibbana) arose from practical situations encountered in the life of practice. When bhikkhus sew and mend their robes, if they are careless or fail to follow proper procedure, this may give rise to actions that lack diligence, to negligence, or even to a form of improper enjoyment. This rule therefore aims to maintain an attitude of careful attention, composure of mind, and respect toward the implements of the religious life.

Main Content

The rule of Cīvarasibbana stipulates that bhikkhus, when sewing robes, must follow proper methods and must not act in such a way as to cause distraction, or to turn the work into a source of unlawful pleasure.

Specifically, if a bhikkhu sews a robe with a mind of enjoyment — whether because of a feeling of comfort or for any reason other than a legitimate purpose (such as covering the body in order to remain in accordance with the Saṅgha's requirements) — he is considered to have committed a Pācittiya offense. This is an offense of a lighter nature than a Pārājika or Saṅghādisesa, yet it still requires confession and repentance before other bhikkhus.

This rule also implicitly teaches that the sewing and mending of robes is a part of the practice of the Path, and not a form of recreation or a waste of time. Each stitch should be made with clear awareness, careful attention, and respect toward one's implements of religious practice.