Lzh Dg Bi Pm Sk 54Covering the Head
Pāli / Sanskrit:Oguṇṭhita
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THE COVERING THE HEAD TEXT (OGUṆṬHITA)
Background
The Covering the Head text belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, specifically the Pācittiya section, rules requiring confession and repentance. This is not a discourse on deep theory, but a regulation concerning the conduct of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs in the Sangha community.
The Covering the Head text arose from a specific event in the life of the Sangha during the Buddha’s time. It was recorded to correct conduct that was not in accord with the vocation of practice of those gone forth. The Vinaya Piṭaka contains the ethical foundations (sīla) of followers of the Buddha, and Pācittiya rules are specific disciplinary rules; if violated, they must be confessed and repented before the Sangha.
Main Content
The Covering the Head text regulates the act of covering the head when attending formal meetings of the Sangha or dignified occasions. Specifically, a bhikkhu should not cover the head in situations such as attending Uposatha, the observance-day gathering of the Sangha, while speaking with elders or teachers, or when participating in communal activities of the Sangha.
Covering the head is regarded as an expression of arrogance, laziness, or lack of respect. In ancient Indian culture, leaving the head bare was a sign of humility, awareness, and respect. When covering the head, a practitioner appears as if indifferent or deliberately avoiding responsibility.
Violation of this rule is a Pācittiya offense, meaning it must be confessed and repented before the monastics in the Sangha. It is not a violation of the severe rules (Pārājika) or Saṅghādisesa (offenses requiring formal review), but a lighter fault that still needs to be healed through sincere repentance.
Practical Meaning
The Covering the Head text teaches us that discipline is not found only in great regulations. Small details in action and bodily attitude also reflect our mind and our respect.
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