四分律行事鈔資持記 3.51

3.51

In the fifth [section], first the Vinaya is cited to show the rule. Qian (䩙), pronounced hu-quan (胡犬反), means a hook. "According to... below" reveals the meaning of the text. The Karma Commentary states: "Install the hook four finger-breadths close to the border, intending to turn back eight finger-breadths to the rear to take the loop; because it covers the left shoulder, there is [this difference in] distance." The Demeanour for Robes and Vestments states: "Truly, because one uses the right corner of the robe to wrap and cover the left shoulder, having the hook in front and the loop in back makes fastening easy and convenient. Therefore, the sacred statues that came from the west and the venerable likenesses of the eastern land have the robe upon the left shoulder, without letting it drape down over the elbow or knee." (In present times, letting it drape over the elbow like an elephant's trunk is contrary to the Dharma.)