Bu Np 11. The training rule on keeping extra robe-cloth beyond ten days
Pāli / Sanskrit:Kathina
A monk who keeps extra robe-cloth for more than ten day must relinquish the robe-cloth and confess the offense.
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Patimokkha Commentary: The Rule on Keeping Extra Robe-Cloth Beyond Ten Days
Background
The Patimokkha is the foundation of the Vinaya Pitaka within the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. Among the regulations concerning robes, the Buddha taught the bhikkhus how to manage robe-cloth with mindfulness and without greed. The rule on keeping extra robe-cloth beyond ten days (Kathina Nissaggiya Pācittiya 1) was established in order to cultivate a mind free from greed, restraint of the faculties, and the practice of reducing material needs to a minimum.
During the time of the Buddha, bhikkhus lived primarily in dependence upon cloth offered by the lay community. The Buddha did not permit bhikkhus to accumulate robe-cloth without limit, as this was contrary to the spirit of the going-forth and contrary to the cultivation of a gentle and moderate way of conduct. This rule reflects a fundamental principle: simplicity of life is the foundation of spiritual practice.
Main Content
According to Kathina Nissaggiya Pācittiya 1, a bhikkhu is not permitted to keep any extra robe-cloth (commonly referred to as "extra robe-cloth" — uttarisaka) for more than ten days. Extra robe-cloth here refers to spare pieces of cloth beyond the set of robes that a bhikkhu is officially permitted to possess.
This rule states clearly: if a bhikkhu receives extra robe-cloth from the community or from a lay person, he must make use of it or transfer it to others within ten days. If he retains the cloth beyond this period, the bhikkhu must forfeit (nissagga) the cloth and confess the Pācittiya offence (pāpadesanā) before the Sangha or before another bhikkhu.
The act of forfeiture means that the bhikkhu must hand the robe-cloth over to the Sangha or to an individual. He must then confess the offence, expressing regret and asking for forgiveness. In this way, the bhikkhu not only remedies the wrongful action but also cultivates a mindful awareness of patience and service.
Practical Significance
The rule on keeping extra robe-cloth beyond ten days is not a means of punishment but a means of training and education.
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