Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v1.c6.3139

v1.c6.3139

The religion thus introduced, however, does not seem to have spread to any extent until much later; for we find Mahā Kaccāna experiencing great difficulty in collecting ten monks, in order that Soṇa Kuṭikaṇṇa might receive the higher Ordination; in fact it was not until three years had elapsed that he succeeded.⁹ Later, when Soṇa Kuṭikaṇṇa visited the Buddha at Sāvatthi, he conveyed to the Buddha Mahā Kaccāna's request that special rules might be laid down for the convenience of the monks of Avanti Dakkhiṇāpatha and of other border countries.¹⁰ The Buddha agreed, and among the rules so laid down were the following: (1) The higher Ordination could be given with only four monks and a Vinayadhara. (2) Monks are allowed the use of shoes with thick linings (because in Avanti the soil is black on the surface, rough and trampled by cattle). (3) Monks are enjoined to bathe frequently (the men of Avanti attaching great importance to bathing). (4) Sheepskins, goatskins, etc., could be used as coverlets. (5) Robes could be accepted on behalf of a monk who has left the district, and the ten days’ rule with regard to such a gift will not begin until the robes have actually reached the monk’s hands¹¹ (this, evidently, because of difficulty of access).