Xct Mu Bu Vb Pc 87Sitting Mats

Explanation of Nisīdana (The Sutta on Sitting Mats)

Background

Nisīdana, or “sitting mat,” is one of the training rules in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. This rule appears in the Pātimokkha, the discipline that bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs must observe. Specifically, it belongs to the Pācittiya section, a class of minor offenses requiring confession and restorative practice.

The Buddha established rules concerning the requisites of training, including the sitting mat, nisīdana, in order to preserve ethics and discipline in the Sangha. These regulations are not meaningless, but reflect careful attention to property, respect for objects provided by laypeople, and the training of a mind free from possessiveness.

Main Content

Nisīdana, the sitting mat, is an essential object in monastic life. It is used for sitting during meditation, study, and daily activities. The Nisīdana Sutta states that a bhikkhu should not use another person’s sitting mat carelessly, or misuse the common property of the Sangha without permission.

Specifically, if a bhikkhu uses the sitting mat of the Sangha or of another person beyond its intended purpose, or causes serious damage to it, that is a Pācittiya offense. Likewise, misuse of personal objects, such as losing them, soiling them, or failing to care for them, is also warned against. This rule is intended to cultivate an attitude of carefulness, respect, and good stewardship of property.

The important point is that the Buddha did not require luxurious objects, but did require that they be used responsibly. A simple sitting mat, perhaps only coarse cloth or straw, is sufficient. Continuing to use it until it can no longer be used, rather than wasting it, reflects the spirit of humble practice.

Practical Meaning

Within the scope of the Vinaya Piṭaka, Nisīdana teaches us a lesson in kappiya-kammanta, the proper use of requisites.